Google has just mapped the spectacular Grand Canyon, the steep-sided canyon carved by the great Colorado River. Today, Google is releasing panoramic imagery of the national monument. Beautiful and interactive images, covering more than 75 miles of trails and surrounding roads, were captured by Google’s very own Trekker. Google’s mapping team strapped on the Android-operated 40-pound backpack carrying the 15-lens camera system. They walked the rocky terrain on foot, endured the temperature swings, and suffered a few muscle cramps, just to capture more than 9,500 panoramas of this masterpiece of nature.
So if you’ve been planning to visit the Grand Canyon, Google Maps can be a good option for now. You can virtually take a walk down the narrow trails and exposed paths of the canyon, hike down the famous Bright Angel Trail, gaze out at the mighty Colorado River, and explore scenic overlooks in full 360-degrees. Instead of driving a couple hours to see the nearby Meteor Crater, a simple click of your mouse or tap of your finger will transport you to the rim of this otherworldly site. “So no matter where you are, you don’t have to travel far or wait for warmer weather to explore Grand Canyon National Park,” Google said. Well done, Google!
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