The Grand Canyon is perhaps the most iconic natural land feature associated with Arizona. Some even refer to it as one of the scenic wonders of the world. It is protected as one of the many U.S. National Parks. Geologists love the canyon because of the number of layers forming the crust of planet earth that are laid open for all to see. This canyon was carved out over the millennia by erosion by the Colorado River. Photographers, hikers, canyoneers, rafters, and just plain tourists love its expansive beauty, serenity, and intrigue. The land around the canyon is being threatened by mining interests, primarily for Uranium, and needs further protection - support the adoption of regulations if you have the opportunity. Thanks.
1 We leave Phoenix and head up I-17.
2 New comers to AZ, are always intrigued to see the Saguaro cactus.
3 The menageria on this tour: (l. to r.) Sunshine, Bob, Brittany, Hayden, Will, Lee, and Don.
4 70 miles from Phoenix, we stop to visit Arcosanti, Italian architect Paolo Solari's experiment in urban living that was started in 1970. (Google "Paolo Solari")
5 Intrigued with Prickly Pear cactus.
6 We visit the gift shop and info center at Arcosanti.
7 We arrive at grand canyon for our first good view. The trail going out on the plateau, just right of center, goes to an overlook for the inner canyon. You could put the Empire State Building on the bottom of the Inner Canyon and its top would just be visible at Plateau Point.
8 An interesting view of the canyon.
9 Hayden and his mom, Sunshine.
10 Hayden negotiates the start of the Bright Angel trail that goes to the bottom of the inner canyon.
11 His turn-around point is the only arch over the trail.
12
13
14 The whole "enchilada"
15
16
17 The side canyon visible on the left side of the pic, was carved by Bright Angel Creek which flows into the Coloraado River.
18 The Three Musketeers (cousins, really): Bob, Don, and Will.
19
20
21
22
23
24 One last look before we find our hotel and have dinner.
25 Next morning we are stopped by an "elk jam" on the road. Cars are stopping to see several elk grazing along the side of the road.
26
27
28 We stop at one view point as we head out to the east exit of the Park and eventually on to White Pocket.
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37 Courtesy of a lady who consents to take a group picture. Thanks, lady.
38 One last look before we move on to lunch at Bob's favorite restaurant along 89A.
