Google Takes Viewers on a Trip Through the Grand Canyon

The search giant partnered with the advocacy group American Rivers to showcase views of nearly 300 miles of whitewater rapids, towering red canyon walls and geologic history.

The imagery captured from Lees Ferry south of Page to Pearce Ferry at Lake Mead went live Thursday.

Google project lead Karin Tuxen-Bettman says the 360-degree views also aim to educate people on water conservation.

Federal officials and environmentalist have been raising alarms recently about demand outstripping supply on the river serving some 40 million people in seven Western states.

Grand Canyon National Park limits the number of people who can raft the river each year. Google's venture allows people to take the trip virtually.