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Down the Great Unknown

Down the Great Unknown

John Wesley Powell's 1869 Journey of Discovery and Tragedy Through the Grand Canyon

by Edward Dolnick

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Should I read this?

appears in About Colorado, Travel, and History.

Drawing on rarely examined diaries and journals, Down the Great Unknown is the first book to tell the full, dramatic story of the Powell expedition. On May 24, 1869 a onearmed Civil War veteran, John Wesley Powell and a ragtag band of nine mountain men embarked on the last great quest in the American West. The Grand Canyon, not explored before, wa...

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Why recommended

appears in About Colorado, Travel, and History.

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Appears In

Eleven Miles to Freedom
Try This Instead

Not sure if this is the right fit?

Consider Eleven Miles to Freedom by Ben Schmitt.

Concise, route-focused guide to Elevenmile Canyon with topos, photos, and short descriptions for established sport and trad lines. Approach notes, pitch lengths, and occasional gear hints make it useful for planning or quick reference at the crag. Limitations: minimal narrative or local history, little beginner-oriented or step-by-step instruction, and photo/topo clarity varies so cross-checking on-site can be necessary. Best used as a practical on-site reference rather than light reading or a teaching primer.

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Down the Great Unknown

Down the Great Unknown

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