Grand Canyon National Park

Having enjoyed last night’s sunset so much, I decided to roll out at 4:20 this morning to catch the sunrise.

Being so early, I took the JetBoil and a cup, found a spot away from the jabbering tourists, and sat and watched the sunrise with a hot cup of coffee. It was worth it. I was surprised that so many people were up that early and even more surprised that most left immediately after the sun was over the horizon. In my opinion they missed the best part of the experience — watching the sun slowly “paint” the canyon in colors. It’s a shame this camera can’t capture the real color pallet.

Sunrise at Mather’s Point:

Shots from the Desert View Area:

The Watchtower:

I traced my way back west along Desert View Drive…

and somewhere along the way I stopped to soak in the view and woke up to this:

Late in the afternoon I took the shuttle service up the Hermits Rest Route. It is the only way up other than hiking since they closed the road to private vehicles. I highly recommend you take this trip near sunset. I stopped at several points along the way, but most of these shots are from Pima Point and to Hermit’s Rest. There was no one else on the trail. When you go, take the rim trail, pause often, soak in the view, smell the pines, listen to the wind, birds, and insects. It will restore your soul.

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and more “critters”

Flagstaff to Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim)

I was out by 9:30 (due to a scheduled call) and had camp set up by noon.

I spent hours sitting on the rim this afternoon and evening. The pictures will just have to speak for themselves.

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Today’s Route:

Flagstaff

Today was a maintenance day; another interview, paying bills, replying to emails, returning phone calls, etc… Off to the Grand Canyon tomorrow — finally!

Christopher Creek to Flagstaff, AZ via Petrified Forest National Park

My original plan had me at the Grand Canyon by now, but after factoring in Memorial Day, I felt the need for change. Petrified Forest NP was a natural choice, and a big surprise.

The surrounding terrain is primarily pine forest.

And as you would expect, there is a lot of petrified wood:

What I wasn’t expecting and has caused me to seriously consider upgrading my camera was the Painted Desert. The colors are much more brilliant than my little snapshot Canon can capture:

And some perceptive soul asked if I’d like one of me since I was traveling alone.

Today’s Route

Sedona to Christopher Creek

With what feels like the whole world out for the holiday weekend, I kicked around on some back roads for a few hours.

This is Camp Verde from the SE:

Not being in any hurry, I paid my three dollars to see the Tonto Natural Bridge. It is quite large, but you need to be able to walk away from your transportation and hike down to the bottom to get a real feel for it. If you look closely in the second photo, you can see the people.

Most of today I’ve simply enjoyed the ride, counted my blessings, and lived in a state of gratefulness. I’ve really been blessed with great friends, amazing opportunities, and a generally good life.

Most campsites were full, so I took immediate advantage of the first campsite that was free. I lazed around in the hammock most of the afternoon finishing a book and napping since we didn’t go to bed until after 3 am.

Today’s Route: