Top of the largest and deepest canyons in the world and the solar system

Mariner Valley, the largest canyon in the solar system

The largest canyon in the solar system crosses the disk of Mars in a wide strip. This huge valley, called Mariner's Valley, is more than 3,000 kilometers long, 600 kilometers wide and 8 kilometers deep. (9 photos)

The origin of Mariner's Valley remains unknown, although the most likely hypothesis suggests that it formed as a fissure several billion years ago as the planet cooled.
It has recently been discovered that some geological processes are continuing in the canyon.
The valley of the Mariner is divided into several districts. At the western end is an area called the Labyrinth of Night, to the east is Titon Canyon and Io, followed by Milas and Ophir, still further east by Coprates, Ganges, Eos and Capri. Further on are areas of ruined terrain, called Chaos, which end in the plain of Chrysas.
The Mariner Valley is so long that when it's nighttime at one end, the other end is still lit up by daylight. This results in temperature differences and, as a consequence, powerful winds blowing throughout the canyon.
By comparison, the earth's Grand Canyon in the U.S. is 800 kilometers long, 30 kilometers wide and 1.8 kilometers deep. If Mariner's Valley is placed within the U.S., it would extend across the states, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific.
Mariner Valley.

Jumping Tiger Gorge

Located in China on the Yangtze River in the Sino-Tibet Mountains, the picturesque, green-covered rift claims to be the deepest canyon in the world. In some places, its walls turn into real mountain chambers up to 3000 m high. The canyon is 30 m wide, which, according to legend, the magic tiger overcame in one jump, escaping from hunters.

Tara Canyon

Montenegro is famous for its many beautiful places, and this time the palm is the largest canyon of the Tara River in Europe. The length of this natural wonder is 82 kmIn some places, the height of the walls reaches more than 1300 meters! Tara is only 500 meters behind Colorado, and its canyon is considered the deepest in Europe.

There are beautiful emerald mountains, cool gorges and waterfalls all around. The whole area is part of the Durmitori National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Around the canyon rise Mount Lubyshnya, Zlatni Bor, Synjaevina and the famous Durmitor.

The Djurdjevic arch bridge was built across the river. It is 160 m high above the water - the highest automobile bridge in the country and in all of Europe.

This bridge has an interesting history:

It was designed by Mijat Trojanovic, with Isaac Rousseau as chief engineer, and was completed in 1937. One of the engineers, Lazar Janukovic, intentionally blew up the bridge during World War II so that it could be rebuilt later, for which he was executed by the occupation authorities. A Djurdjevic - just a farmer whose house stood nearby, and now his last name is immortalized :). The bridge survived World War II, was rebuilt in 1946 and still has bullet marks on it.

Tara - the dream and the dream of fans of rafting, rafting and canyoning. If you like active recreation on the water, be sure to visit Montenegro - you will not regret it.

Grand Canyon - USA

This canyon, contrary to popular belief, is not the largest in the world - it is the most famous canyon on the planet. It is 1,828 meters deep and 445 kilometers long.

This majestic place is one of the Seven Wonders of the World of Nature. Now the Grand Canyon is visited by about five million people a year, with tourists coming from all continents.

Highlights

Grand Canyon

No description can truly prepare one for the scale and grandeur of this vast canyon, stretching as far as the eye can see into a grand complex of canyons, waterfalls, caves, towers, escarpments and ravines. The Grand Canyon always seems to look new, and the sunlight and shadows from passing clouds cause the rocks to constantly change shades of color in a subtle range from black and purple-brown to pale pink and bluish gray. Findings in caves suggest that the Grand Canyon was home to its first inhabitants

The Horseshoe, the famous bend in the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon

North of the Grand Canyon
A riot of color

Inside Antelope Canyon, which is northeast of the Grand Canyon

Here you can enjoy an incredible palette of colors, looking at the scarlet, gold and orange cliffs, purple chasms, and crystal clear waters, making it one of the most beautiful places on Earth. After seeing the sunset in the Grand Canyon, the poet Carl Sandberg cried, "Here comes God with an army of standard-bearers!"

The south end of the Grand Canyon is the most popular place, as it is easily accessible from the highway that runs parallel to the edge of the canyon. There are several viewpoints and hiking trails.

The northern edge, where the height of the canyon walls becomes much more noticeable, is visited by tourists much less often, because it is not so easy to get here. You can still get to the Tuwip area by several dirt roads and enjoy stunning views, but in general the area is inaccessible for cars.

In addition to the Grand Canyon, there are many side canyons and gorges, but most of them require time or a difficult rafting trip down the Colorado River to explore.

After a single trip here, you begin to understand why this place is so popular and why it is considered a unique wonder of nature.

Ancient Navajo lore tells of a brave hero named Packit-haawi who ended the Great Flood by taking a heavy stick and cracking the solid earth so that all the water could escape into the resulting fissure. Geologists say the gorge was formed over 40-50 million years as the Colorado River steadily deepened its course.

History of the formation of a natural masterpiece

Many people wonder how the Grand Canyon was formed, because it takes not even thousands, but millions of years to create such a natural masterpiece. It is assumed that from the time the Colorado River flowed through the plain, but the movement of the plates triggered the rise of the plateau. This changed the angle of the river channel, the flow rate increased, and the rocks began to wash out faster.

The upper layer consisted of limestone, which washed out first. Deeper was the sandstone and shale, but even these could not resist the violent current that washed over the plateau for millions of years. Thus, about five million years ago, the Grand Canyon took on a form similar to what you see today. However, soil erosion still continues, so several million more years later the natural site could change significantly.

Yarlung Tsangpo

The deepest canyon on the planet is located in the Tibetan Himalayas. The fog-covered gorge is called the last geographical mystery of the Earth. Its greatest depth is 6009 meters, length - about 500 km. thoroughly examined only in 1994. Everything that was known about it before, sounded too fantastic.

The canyon has unusual horseshoe-shaped outlines. It is surrounded by the highest mountains with snow-white peaks, which merge with the sky blue, becoming almost invisible. They often attract beginners climbers, but can be conquered only by professionals.

The Tsangpo River runs through the canyon. It is at its widest at 80 meters, but from the height of the mountain peaks it looks like a barely visible thread. Rafting on the river is considered quite difficult, but this does not prevent it from being popular among rafters.

The canyon is characterized by a special ecosystem, where snow-capped peaks are adjacent to flowering vegetation. The diversity of species of flora and fauna is due to the presence of several habitats:

• Warm air reigns below, comfortable for many plant life;
• Above, in difficult mountain conditions, there are completely different animals and vegetation, adapted to the lack of oxygen and low temperatures.

Kolka

Located in Peru, it is considered one of the most visited places in the state. The depth is 3.4 km. The first people to inhabit Colca were representatives of the original tribes of the pre-Incan era. Here they managed to create an intricate system of agricultural plots covering over 10 thousand hectares. The name of the gorge translates as "granary with grain".

It was formed by the activities of the volcanoes Hualka and Sabancaya. The canyon attracts hundreds of tourists:

• Unique views from unprecedented heights;
• Incredible nature;
• Colorful settlements.

On one of the highest points of the Colca, the Cruz del Condor observation platform is formed, which allows you to see the "masters of the Andes", the largest birds on the planet - condors, from the closest possible distance.

The canyon is famous for its comfortable hotels near the hot springs. After a hard hike, tourists will enjoy impeccable service and relax in the swimming pool with natural water.

Sulak Canyon

6th place in the list of deepest canyons is occupied by Dagestan's Sulak Gorge, surrounded by the Salatau and Gimry mountain ranges. It is 1.92 km deep and is considered one of the most attractive local attractions.

Once up on the plateau, you can admire the stunning panorama of the Sulak River and the many hydroelectric power plants installed on it. Remember that the gorge is not equipped with railings, viewing platforms and fences, so it is very dangerous to be on top of it.

Kali Gandaki

Second place in the ranking of the deepest canyons in the world is Kali Gandaki. It is located in Nepal. Depth - 6,000 meters. The name of the gorge comes from the name of the Hindu goddess Kali, who personifies the power of natural forces. Locals consider the canyon sacred. Every year it is visited by many pilgrims who are attracted here by the shrines and non-man-made natural wonders: such as burning stones.

The canyon is surrounded by enormous mountains rising 8,000 meters. The difference in elevation forms a variety of landscapes. At the level of 3 km, among the lifeless mountain slopes, you can find small villages whose residents twice a year gather crops from local oases. The shrines located on the mountain slopes and remote villages give this place a touch of antiquity and mystery.

Blyde River Canyon

Located in South Africa, the Blyde River Canyon in South Africa is not the largest on Earth, but it does have a good chance of being called green. Its average depth is 762 meters, the gorge is 26 kilometers long and is covered with lush subtropical vegetation, which definitely adds to its charm.

The deepest part of the canyon, from the top of Mount Marypscope down to the mouth, is 1,372 meters. The Blyde River Canyon offers some of the most incredible African scenery in the world. The canyon is filled with amazing fauna, including all five species of South African primates.

Antelope Canyon

Once again, the U.S. To the north of Arizona, one of the planet's most magical, amazing canyons stretches across the lands of the Navajo Indians. The red sand walls, resembling the color of antelope skins, carved by whimsical waves, create unique shifts in light and draw you into a world of natural magic and attract photographers from around the world. To get to them, you need a special permit and Indian guide, which in itself is an added adventure.

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Vikos Canyon

Elegant and beautiful - like the country it represents, it soars into the sky for 1.6 km (1600 m), and the width in some places does not exceed a few meters. Technically Vikos is not a canyon, but a gorge. The difference is determined by the ratio of depth to width. Thus, it is considered the deepest gorge in the world and even entered in the Guinness Book of Records. Bottom line: in Montenegro - the deepest European canyon, and in Greece - gorge :)

The rich nature of Vikos Aoos Park, the crystal waters of the Vodoymati River and the warm Balkan climate fill the trails with life, light and harmony. The distinctive feature of this area, which is incidentally called Zagorochoria, is the stone arched bridges. Beautiful, openwork, they are recognized as the most beautiful in the Balkans. As you walk, it seems as if a muse or nymph will run out of the forest... And could an ancient civilization arise in less beautiful conditions? The villages in this mountainous outback are also charismatic: paved streets, stone houses with views over the rocky massif... Along

By the way, Vikos is only a few hours drive from Thessaloniki (read "from the sea")), which makes it a great addition to the beach vacation. Perhaps for friends or relatives hiking in Vikos will be a good introduction to outdoor activities ;))

We have a hike on Vikos - join us )

Copper Canyon - Mexico

To be precise, this canyon is located near Chihuahua, and it is not the only one - there are six canyons, which together form the Copper Canyon. Barranca del Cobre, so it is called in Spanish after the green and copper-red shade of its walls.

The deepest canyon in the system, the Barranca de Urique, goes deep at 1,879 meters. Copper Canyon is rich in wildlife, but unfortunately, many species are now endangered by deforestation.

Canyon of Cotahuachi - Peru

The Cotahuasi Canyon, at its deepest point, drops sharply to a depth of 3,535 meters. It was carved by the Cotahuasi River between two mountain ranges, Coropuna and Solimana. The scenery surrounding the Cotahuasi Canyon is spectacular and remote.

Kali Gandeki Gorge - Nepal

The Kali River, which winds its way through the Kali Gandeki Gorge in Nepal, is even older than the high Himalayan mountain range that surrounds it. The river is named after the Hindu goddess Kali; and its waters are black and murky because of the glacial silt.

The exact depth of the giant Kali Ganeki Gorge is debated because not everyone agrees on the height of its edge. However, if the depth were measured from the highest peaks on either side and down to the river, it would be the deepest canyon in the world with a depth of approximately 6,800 meters.

Ordesa River Canyon

Catalan Pyrenees, Spain

Жемчужина Испании, гордая Каталония, хранит бесценные сокровища природы, и среди них — уникальный каньон реки Ордеса. Из всех «европейцев» по форме и очертаниям стен он наиболее напоминает «Большого Брата». Высота в разных местах колеблется от 400 до 1000 метров. А вершины, которые окружают Ордесу, достигают 3000м! Если Тара изумляет насыщенной зеленью, то здесь — именно те каменные отвесы, которые представляешь себе при мысли о каньоне. Древние породы изъедены временем и дождями, горы вокруг щетинятся острыми пиками… Устье реки заросло лиственным лесом, в котором бродят дикие звери и туристы. Последних, кстати, больше 🙂

Ordesa is located in the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park. Monte Perdido (3355m) is the third highest peak in the Pyrenees, and it is possible to climb it (or at least close to it) from the canyon. The settlements in the park are a separate attraction, because they are real medieval castles! And with the mountains as a background...

Пешеходные маршруты от Торлы или Ото (самые известные замки) ведут вдоль реки по живописных лесах между стен ущелья и взлетают на панорамные альпийские луга, с которых уже видны самые высокие снежные вершины Пиренев. Классно, правда? 😉

Canyons of Europe - A great vacation decoration, an addition to the active holiday and just amazing views!

Кстати, именно в эти Вы можете отправиться с нами 🙂 Записывайтесь в походы — будем рады открыть мир с Вами вместе!

Verdon Canyon

The natural jewel of France is still the deepest canyon in Europe. And although it is not that deep or long compared to Chinese or American gorges - only 700 m high walls and 25 km long - but all the unhurried, spaced beauty of Provence merges here with the unruffled might of the ancient mountains. The bright turquoise ribbon of the river allows water cycling and kayaking, while the white-grey with a subtle mauve hue is available for climbing. Generous France opens a world of pleasure to every taste - because the Riviera and the banner are already nearby

Verdon Canyon

Caperty Valley - Australia

This majestic canyon is the largest in Australia and is known for its rough landscape and high sandstone slopes. Because of its age, Caperty Valley is not as deep as some of the other canyons on this list, but it makes up for the lack of depth with its size.

The Caperti Valley is 1 kilometer wider and just as much longer than the Grand Canyon. Starting at its source, the Caperti River cuts its way through Triassic rock, which dates back millions of years. The indigenous people of Virajuri have a very extensive history on this land, as shown in their 2000-year-old mountain art.