Over several million years, the Colorado River has carved a chasm here more than 5000 feet deep. The river is not directly responsible for the canyon's width that makes it so "grand." The gap, up to 10 miles wide between the north and south rims, is the result of erosion from other sources. Freezing, thawing, wind, rain and gravity all play a role in breaking down the rocks the river has exposed.

Most of these photos were taken at Grand Canyon West, on the Colorado River. The last three are from Bright Angel Point on the North Rim at Grand Canyon National Park. For the complete tour start at top left and click the "next" button on each page. Please click here to view a wide angle QTVR panorama from Bright Angel Point in a new window.