In this riveting account of the historic exploration of the Colorado River and its breathtaking canyons, author John Wesley Powell takes readers on an unforgettable journey through some of the most rugged and awe-inspiring landscapes in North America. As a veteran explorer and geologist, Powell provides vivid descriptions of the challenges and dangers faced by his intrepid crew as they navigate treacherous rapids, towering cliffs, and uncharted territory.

What sets this book apart is Powell's keen eye for detail and his deep appreciation for the natural beauty of the American Southwest. Through his lyrical prose, he transports readers to a world of towering red rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant sunsets that seem to stretch on forever. Powell's passion for exploration and his tireless determination to uncover the mysteries of the Colorado River make for a compelling and engaging read.

Despite the hardships and near-constant danger that Powell and his crew faced, there is a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect that shines through in their interactions. The bonds formed during their epic journey serve as a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Overall, Canyons of the Colorado is a captivating and immersive read that will appeal to anyone with a love for adventure, history, or the great outdoors. Powell's storytelling is both informative and entertaining, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in the untamed beauty of the American West.

Book Description:

John Wesley Powell was a pioneer American explorer, ethnologist, and geologist in the 19th Century. In 1869 he set out to explore the Colorado and the Grand Canyon. He gathered nine men, four boats and food for ten months and set out from Green River, Wyoming, on May 24. Passing through dangerous rapids, the group passed down the Green River to its confluence with the Colorado River (then also known as the Grand River upriver from the junction), near present-day Moab, Utah.

The expedition’s route traveled through the Utah canyons of the Colorado River, which Powell described in his published diary as having …wonderful features—carved walls, royal arches, glens, alcove gulches, mounds and monuments. From which of these features shall we select a name? We decide to call it Glen Canyon. (Ironically, now almost completely submerged by Lake Powell, behind the Glen Canyon Dam.)

One man (Goodman) quit after the first month and another three (Dunn and the Howland brothers) left at Separation Rapid in the third, only two days before the group reached the mouth of the Virgin River on August 30 after traversing almost 1,500 km. The three who left the group late in the trip were later killed—probably by Indians.

Powell retraced the route in 1871-1872 with another expedition, producing photographs, an accurate map, and various papers, including ethnographic reports of the area’s Native Americans and a monograph on their languages.