The last time my feet touched the Rim Trail at the Grand Canyon, one hand was firmly planted on the shoulder of my youngest son. Our family had driven up from Sedona for the day and been surprised by sudden snowfall. Matt was an exuberant four-year old, and exuberance, abrupt drop-offs and snow did not feel like a good mix. Our return trip was circumvented by still more snow and a road closing that eventually forced us to backtrack and detour around Flagstaff. Memorable. Finding an over-sized roaring fire and hot chocolate at Hermit’s Rest on the Rim Trail’s westernmost point was equally memorable but a bit more pleasant.
This time Zach and I walked an eastern section of trail near Mather Point. Paved and highly accessible, it still afforded some lovely views of canyon landscape. We felt sympathy for the shivering day-trippers from Vegas wearing shorts and t-shirts. They didn’t linger much beyond a quick glance and photo. Unfortunate timing. By the time we returned to hike the South Kaibab trail two days later, temperatures had caught up to the season and they would have been appropriately dressed.
Hard to imagine it being that chilly in the Grand Canyon
Wow! Stunning, would love to see these images in a bigger size.
i like your blog
I never tire of views of the Grand Canyon. Lovely reminiscent story.
Heather ~ I loved the clouds over the Grand Canyon in the shot of you and Zach. ~ jb///
The first time I saw the Grand Canyon I became aware of how small is my time here on earth.
Graham: The Canyon has its moments, and for me, that’s part of the draw. It’s lovely in all seasons but unpredictably “grand”. We met a couple who drove down from Vegas for the day. Quite a contrast for them!
Cate: Thanks! If you click on the photos, they’ll expand to a larger size.
Jesson: Thank you. I feel privileged to have traveled to some pretty amazing places.
Thanks Mark. I know you’ve spent a bit of time tromping around the US and experiencing these parks too!
Lazy Blogger: Cool, huh? I planned that. ; )
WorkingHard: Yes! When you visit a place where the changes are measured in millions of years, our usual under-100 years life expectancy seems on the slight side. Such a short span to make a positive impact…