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The creation of the Grand Canyon began 80 million years ago when the Colorado Plateau was formed by the upheaval of the Earth's crust.  The Colorado River then carved the path through the Plateau creating the Grand Canyon.

The Canyon is 277 miles long and in some spots 17 miles across.  The base of the canyon is 4,500 feet below the south rim and 5,800 feet below the north rim.

As you look into the canyon, you can see the different colored layers of rock, each marking a period in the Earth's history from 250 million to 2 billion years ago. The best way to see the canyon, feel its massive size and see its different colors and forms is to walk below the rim, even if it is a short distance down one of the canyon's many trails.

Conquer the Canyon and Help Conquer Cancer!
The Cancer Research Institute is offering a 3-night/4-day outdoors adventure challenge at one of nature's most splendid wonders—the Grand Canyon. In partnership with Conquer The Canyon^®, we have created an opportunity for walking and hiking activists alike to experience the grandeur of the Grand Canyon like you’ve never seen it before, while you also raise funds and create awareness for our mission – to conquer cancer by supporting innovative researchers. Individuals, groups of friends, corporate teams, and clubs are all welcome to participate in this one-in-a-lifetime event. To find out how to join, please visit our Web page at http://www.cancerresearch.org/events/conquerthecanyon2009.html.

If you have any questions regarding Conquer the Canyon, you may contact me at kfowler@cancerresearch.org or (212) 688-7515, ext. 231.

Best Regards,

The National Landscape Conservation System

How to Get There

To get to the South Rim from Flagstaff, Arizona take US 180 to the South Entrance or take US 89 to Cameron, then Arizona 64.

The South Rim is 77 miles from Flagstaff and 226 miles north of Phoenix.

To get to the North Rim, take Arizona 67 from Jacob Lake to the North Entrance. The two entrances are 215 miles apart by car or a 5-hour drive.  The North Rim is 82 miles from Kanab Utah and 45 miles from Jacob's Lake.

Airports:

• Grand Canyon Airport (south rim)
• Flagstaff
• Las Vegas
• Phoenix

When To Go:

The South Rim is open all year but the North Rim is only open from Mid-may to Mid-October.  Temperatures in the inner canyon can reach 118 degrees Fahrenheit and the preferred season to enjoy the park is Spring and Fall.