Carved by Time

Canyons are deep, narrow valleys in Earth's crust created by erosion over time. Rivers are the major force that have sculpted the canyons we see today, but canyonlands can also be found underwater and on the ocean floor. Although Arizona’s Grand Canyon is one of the most well-known canyons, other national parks like Canyonlands in Utah and Black Canyon of the Gunnison in Colorado features some of the steepest cliffs and oldest rock in North America. Explore canyons and canyonlands.

Last updated: February 5, 2019