Visiting the Grand Canyon isn’t just about taking in the incredible scenery. There are also unique cultural and historical sites throughout the area. Several Native American tribes have historical connections to the land surrounding this landmark. With a knowledgeable tour guide, you can explore the area while also learning about the rich history of these tribes.

What Native American Tribes Are Associated With the Grand Canyon?

Havasupai Tribe

The Havasupai Reservation is entirely surrounded by Grand Canyon National Park. However, through an agreement with the federal government, the reservation remains sovereign land even though it’s within the park’s boundaries. This tribe has called the South Rim their home for the last 800 years, and they currently have around 650 living members.

Havasupai means “people of the blue-green waters.” This is a reference to the clear pools of water and several waterfalls found on the reservation.

In the past, the tribe farmed throughout the canyon region during spring and summer and spent colder months on plateau lands. Trekking back and forth created paths that have since been turned into hiking trails.

Hualapai Tribe

The Hualapai Reservation includes 108 miles of the Colorado River and Grand Canyon. They have roughly 2,100 living members that reside in their capital of Peach Springs near Historic Route 66.

The land is home to plenty of outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing, and rafting. The tribe also operates Grand Canyon West, which offers views of the canyon from a different angle than those available within Grand Canyon National Park. The famous Skywalk was opened on their land in 2007. This glass platform is situated 4,000-feet above the canyon and allows visitors to walk 70-feet out from the plateau.

Kaibab Band of Paiute Indians

The Kaibab Band of Paiute Indians currently resides along the border of Arizona and Utah. However, their land historically stretched from Southern Utah to the northern rim of the Grand Canyon.

The tribe is dedicated to preserving nature on its land. They have even been designated as an International Dark Sky Community. This means that they work to limit light pollution through outdoor lighting ordinances and practices to preserve views of the night sky.

 

If you’re interested in learning more about the Grand Canyon region, Laughlin Tours offers guided group tours of the Grand Canyon, Oatman, Historic Route 66, and the Hoover Dam. Their tour guides also host brewery and wine tasting outings. They are located in Laughlin, NV, and have nearly 20 years in business. The company employs knowledgeable tour guides who share unique information and showcase powerful views. Book a tour online, or call (702) 420-5345 to speak with a friendly team member about your options.