Thurs Sept 17 – No Wi-Fi For Awhile

After our great mule ride, we thought we’d like to see the southern end of the canyon – not accessible very easily. For this, we decided to take a bus tour – our first “senior” outing! The driver droned on and on literally putting us to sleep. It was worth the vistas, however. We went to Rainbow Point, and a few others, which I can’t recall right now. The most difficult part of the tour, was getting on and off the bus to get a photo op at the overlooks.
That evening we thought we’d take in a ranger lecture, but the heavens opened right after dinner, so we just relaxed. It was unanimous – we were ready to split Bryce.
We broke camp early on Wed and headed to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, with a slight detour to Kodachrome State Park. Again, breathtaking. It was amazing to us how the landscape changed. We spent a little time there, taking pix – then on to Arizona!
We stopped in a little town called Kanab, the little Hollywood of the west. It was here that great westerns were filmed . We had lunch at Denny’s wigwam. Even though it was a tourist trap, we enjoyed taking cheesy pictures.
By now the cliffs and stones of the previous days, gave way to majestic ponderosa pines, sweeping meadows, and quaking aspens. Being in a forest, was not what I was expecting. We arrived at the campground (the Grand Canyon signage brought a tear to my eye – not believing I was really here) and were delighted to find our site, beneath a canopy of pines and just feet from the extensively used rest station! We immediately investigated the trail across from us and lo and behold – we’re on the rim!!! Before we set up, we went in search of the Lodge and Visitor’s Center. After scoping the amenities, we set up camp, had dinner and a big camp fire. A little wine goes a long way in the vegging department!
First order of today was to rent bicycles and explore. We rode the bridle path, and then found our way down to the lodge. We locked up the bikes and then traveled the Bright Angel Trail. It was only a half mile, but the elevation differences were strenuous. All in all we put in some good mileage!
Back at the site, we all took power naps and then it was on the trail again. The environment beckons one to be active and come see more!
Tonight – dinner at the Lodge on the rim of the Canyon. It looks fake – it’s hard to believe that such grandeur exists. Tomorrow – it’s off to Glen Canyon and fun on Lake Powell.