May 24, 1869
Major John Wesley Powell, an intrepid one-armed explorer, left Green River, Wyoming, leading an expedition down the Green and Colorado Rivers. The expedition ended on August 29, 1869, near Grand Wash Cliffs.
1871
John D. Lee established ferryboat service across the Colorado River at present-day Lees Ferry, providing the first accessible canyon crossing.
Aug. 14, 1909
Rainbow Bridge, the world's largest natural bridge, was discovered. The 278' wide span stands 290' above the stream bed. Today, it's part of Rainbow Bridge National Monument, a popular visitor attraction at Lake Powell.
Oct. 20, 1956
Construction started on Glen Canyon Dam, when President Dwight D. Eisenhower pressed a button from the White House, detonating the first powder charge.
1966
The final two generating units at the Glen Canyon Dam began providing power.
October 27, 1972
The Glen Canyon National Recreational Area was established.
June 20, 1980
Lake Powell reached 'full pool' for the first time at 3,700 foot elevation. Since that time, it has become the ultimate destination for houseboating vacations.
