Another Day, Another Sunrise

Wednesday, 12 August 2009

Trek Day 15

We were up before dawn again today for sunrise over The Grand Canyon. Kate whisked us out of the van and down to an outcrop sticking out into the canyon. We settled down to muffins and juice and waited for the big event.

It was hazy this morning with mist filling the canyon to the brim. The sky brightened gradually and we were treated to a false sunrise as reflections made a larger globe appear on the horizon ahead of the Sun itself. Another fantastic way to start a day.

Bad Timing

A few days ago, I got lumbered with the back seat on the van a couple of days running. I'm not sure how, but at some stage I think I fell asleep with all my weight skewed on one hip. Since then it's been giving me niggling pain. Today was no exception.

So, it was obvious that a trip down into the canyon was out of the question, though frankly, given the heat I think I got a better deal by taking the Rim Walk.

I started reasonably well, but had a distinct limp and pain when I took my first few paces after each stop. The Rim Walk runs alongside the free shuttle bus service so after 2 or 3 miles of discomfort, I started to use the bus to take me between each view point. I was disappointed not to be able to stride out along the rim, especially as the early start meant the trail was almost deserted.

I got some tremendous views and a wide variety too, so am happy not to have slogged down the path as most of the rest of the group did.

I caught a lot of wildlife on the route including deer, chipmonks, squirrel, butterflies, various birds and some great bugs.

Unmountains

OK. So in yesterday's blog I said there was no way to describe the Grand Canyon. Today I found a word. "Unmountains". If you were to create the most intricate and beautiful mountain range , then turn it upside-down and push it into a vast flat plain you have the Grand Canyon.

It messes with you mind in such an exquisite way. Your world is inverted. You stood at the top of inside-out mountains.

We got back to camp in good time for an afternoon nap and, as we were all tired, we went to a steakhouse for dinner. Now it's not long after 9:00pm and people are going to bed. Once I've wandered over to the office to upload this, I'll be doing the same.

Goodnight.

Stats - Day Nineteen

Distance travelled (as the crow flies) - 0 - stayed at Grand Canyon Caravan Park, Tusayan, AZ.

State count - 14 + DC