Grand Canyon Caverns: A Journey into the Earth's Depths

Grand Canyon Caverns, a natural wonder located on Route 66 near Peach Springs, Arizona, invites you to explore the depths of the earth. These caverns, among the largest dry cave systems in the United States, offer a unique glimpse into geological history and human interaction with this subterranean world. The caverns began forming approximately 345 million years ago when the southwestern United States was covered by an ancient sea. Over millions of years, the shells and skeletons of marine life created a lime-rich mud that eventually dried into limestone bedrock. Earthquakes and volcanic activity pushed this bedrock hundreds of feet below the surface, creating cracks and fissures where rainwater seeped through, carving out cavities and passageways. The lack of constant moisture has resulted in a 'dry' cave system, where stalactites and stalagmites are rare. The caverns have a rich human history as well. In the winter of 1917-1918, two Hualapai Native Americans who had succumbed to illness were buried in a concealed hole that connected to the caverns. In 1927, Walter Peck stumbled upon the entrance while on his way to a poker game. Recognizing the potential, he began charging visitors to be lowered by rope into the depths. During the Cold War, the U.S. government designated the caverns as a fallout shelter, stocking it with supplies for 2,000 people. These supplies remain in the caverns today, offering a glimpse into a tense period in history. Today, visitors can explore the caverns on guided tours that descend 210 feet via elevator. Paved walkways with handrails make the main tour accessible to most ages and fitness levels. For the more adventurous, 'Explorer' tours delve into unlit portions of the caverns. Other amenities include a gift shop, restaurant, and even an underground suite for overnight stays.