Every day at Grand Canyon National Park tells a story, but February 26 is a special one. It marks the Grand Canyon's designation as a national park in 1919, a milestone that helped protect one of the most iconic natural wonders in the United States. At the heart of it all flows the Colorado River, winding for hundreds of miles through layered stone, quietly shaping the canyon one season at a time.

For visitors in the area, the anniversary is a perfect chance to slow down and explore. Ranger-led programs and talks highlight the canyon's geology, wildlife, and cultural history. A walk along the South Rim offers sweeping views where California condors circle overhead, while elk, mule deer, and bighorn sheep roam the park's diverse habitats. Stargazing and scenic overlooks add to the experience, especially during winter's clearer nights.

You don't need to be nearby to take part. The National Park Service provides live webcams from viewpoints across the park, sharing real-time sunrises, weather shifts, and daily rhythms. Whether in Arizona or far away, February 26 is an open invitation to connect with the Grand Canyon in your own way.