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I've been pondering this Grand Canyon entry as I took more than 250 photos (which I'll organize in a few years). First off, no I did NOT hike to the bottom of the Canyon. If a crazy friend was along I might have, but a one-day round-trip would have meant doing very little the rest of the week! While camping down below is an option, it isn't for me -- this is where the rattlesnakes and scorpions live (I'm not making that up!). Instead, I had a week-long adventure of multiple below-the-rim hikes, scenic walks along the entire 14-mile south rim, 2 bike rides, ranger programs, and more. I also had my first winter camping experience (it was 38 degrees the first 2 nights!). A week was just right, and the small smattering of photos will tell some of the story! SIDEBAR: My Rant on The Grand Canyon (feel free to skip it): While I really enjoyed this great wonder, it was a dismay to see how incredibly commercialized The Grand Canyon (south rim) is. As one fellow hiker said, "this is the Disney of National Parks". I also attended a ranger program on "How do we define wilderness?" which had a similar bent then spoke with a shuttle driver who said, "It just keeps on growing. When is it enough?". There are now over 5 million visitors annually, and just 5% go below the rim (1% to the bottom). While everyone should see the Canyon, how many restaurants, gift shops, etc are enough? Yes, I've made note to write a letter to the National Parks Director & I'm happy to share it if you'd like to send one, too! Will the glow of the golden arches deter the beauty of the night sky one day? I hope not! Music Quiz: So, as I was leaving and revved up for Southern Utah, I selected a music compilation from the '70s because the first song fit my mood. Here's 3 hints: I was feeling strong, wearing a desert sun glow, and heading into the Red Canyon. Name the tune and I'll treat you to a Thai dinner the next time we meet! (Deadline is Monday, 6/8; only one winner!) Loving Utah and will share that experience early next week!
14 Comments
Sue Tyler
6/5/2015 02:17:14 pm
OMG, you are so lucky. Pics are beautiful. I wish I could have been with you, espically bike riding the canyon. What were your temps?
Judy
6/6/2015 04:40:50 am
Sue, Thanks for the message!!! It is indeed there! Wish you could've joined me, too. Temps were high 30's to mid-40s overnight but then 80 by mid-day. Had to get out really early to hike as the temps rise as you descend to the Canyon. The desert is strange.
Anne-Marie
6/6/2015 03:51:56 am
Hey, ElkGirl
Judy
6/6/2015 04:41:40 am
AMG: Good guess & wish I had that song! Sorry, that's not it though you can try again!
Ed Condon
6/6/2015 03:27:39 pm
J I'm one of those 1 precenter that have hiked down to the bottom of grand cannon, incredible experience that I hope to repeat with children. What most people don't know is the the north rim has some incredible hikes and views, most prople are only familiar with the south rim. You were smart to accomplish the variety of experiences at the south rim. I totally agree with your accessment of flagstaff. You looked great. Your bicycle was a great way to do the south rim. Miss you back in md.
Judy
6/8/2015 12:35:08 pm
Wow, dude, a 1%! I had no idea!!! That said, I still hate the rattlesnake idea! :( I did talk to many people who had hiked North down the up the South rim but I had a full week just doing south! Feel like I'm not riding enough (twice a week) but can't pass up the hiking experiences at the moment. Southern Utah is amazing. That update to come in a day or two! Have you bought a new bike???
Barb
6/6/2015 07:04:33 pm
Hi Judy -- your photos are amazing and so are your travels...Glad you are out of the canyon and onto the other side. So I am wracking my brain on a song -- thinking Carole King or Bonnie Rait or Janis Joplin -- or maybe Fleetwoood Mac or a Dead tune. Am I close? I might crank some Jackson Browne or Van Morrison.
Judy
6/8/2015 12:36:23 pm
Barb -- Sorry, not close my friend! Now out of the Southern Utah area and heading into Wyoming tomorrow. Will post the new entry in the next 24 hours I hope!
Barb
6/8/2015 05:47:03 pm
A Donna Summer disco tune
Anne-Marie
6/8/2015 05:29:35 am
"Cowgirl in the Sand" by Neil Young
Judy
6/8/2015 12:37:19 pm
AMG! Another great song I do not have! Will reveal the answer before I head to Wyoming in the morning (I hope)! j.
Donna
6/8/2015 01:21:58 pm
Hey Judy~ the canyon looks amazing! Your photos are FAB & those hikes must have been pinnacle 😊 looking forward to Utah ..... And the song I am having trouble .... A Horse With No Name ?
Judy
6/9/2015 01:00:19 am
Donna,
Claudette
6/13/2015 08:40:43 am
What gorgeous photos! You really did capture the essence of the Grand Canyon. The South Rim is very commercialized. The song you were talking about didn't get posted as far as I can see. When I saw that tower all I can could think of was Dylan. "All along the watchtower." So what is it? Leave a Reply. |
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