FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) - The Grand Canyon is celebrating 100 years as a national park in 2019.
President Woodrow Wilson made the designation in 1919. But Teddy Roosevelt is credited for preserving the natural wonder as a game reserve and a national monument.
Centennial events include Roosevelt impersonators, a historical symposium, a living history week and efforts to get visitors beyond the popular South Rim.
Park spokeswoman Vanessa Ceja Cervantes says the park will showcase lesser-known sites on social media.
The park's actual birthday is Feb. 26.
It's one of the most visited sites in the National Park Service, drawing more than 6 million tourists a year.
Most visitors peer into the deep gorge from the South Rim but others navigate river rapids, hike the numerous trails or camp under the stars.
