Sept 10, 2015

Grand Canyon

Leisurely departure time for us as our goal camp spot had a 1:00 check in time and was only about 80 miles away.  First gas up then off.  Another pretty drive.  This time one of the key sights was the Vermillion Cliffs as well as crossing the Colorado River gorge at Lees Ferry.  Last time we will cross it this trip.  Lots of elevation changes We gained and lost 2000’ and then regained it and doubled that.  Reached Jacob Lake and checked in to campground even though we were early.  Lunch and then a 45 mile drive south to north rim of Grand Canyon.  Took pictures, wandered through lodge, talked to ranger for info, drove out another 30 mile long road to location with best views from north rim – much better than views from lodge.  Took pictures.  Back to carbus about 6:45.

 

View toward southeast from north rim Cape Royal

 

This is an area set up for weddings.  Picture taken from behind several rows of benches. Couple stand in area in front of rocks.  Looks like best time for wedding would be morning.  Much better light then.  Still an impressive backdrop.

 

Window rock

 

View of Grand Canyon through window

 

Looking southeast.  There is a reason south wall is more abrupt.  North rim is 1500’ higher.  More snow and rain.  More run off. More feeder streams. More erosion over longer distance before reaching Colorado River.

Speaking of the Colorado, it is in the picture.  Center of picture is a white bluff.  To the right of that is a dark green area on floor of canyon.  that is not the river.  River is brown area running diagonally down to left of green area.

 

Similar view.  River a little easier to make out.