History

The Grand Canyon embodies the wild, open spirit of the American West. Its vastness and scale challenge human comprehension. President Theodore Roosevelt once called it the sight every American should see.

Forming part of the border between northern Arizona and southern Utah, the canyon is located in one of America's most remote and hostile desert areas.

Early in the 20th century, the Union Pacific and Santa Fe Railways built grand lodges to welcome those who journeyed across the country. The railroads were very instrumental in developing the West, and in establishing the national parks — especially the Grand Canyon.

Several pivotal events spurred the public's interest in the Grand Canyon and Arizona tourism: John Wesley Powell's historic expeditions, the rustic architectural design of Mary Jane Colter and Gilbert Stanley Underwood, and the entrepreneurship of the Fred Harvey Company.


El Tovar

Grand Canyon Lodge

La Posada