On our way - pit stop at Big Rock Candy Mountain
Dogs are only allowed on paved surfaces in the National Parks. Luckily there are many of them. There is a 13-mile paved trail along the rum.
We were at Trailer Village, a full hookup park inside the park.
The Doods were having a sniff & Pee fest!
We had a small herd of elk that hung around Trailer Village.
The Doods were quick to notice the elk and always appeared surprised to see them (but did not bark).
Yup, it's a desert!
It was rather windy most days.
Lots of muted colors!
Elk by the truck.
Another one.
Lots of folks heading out on the Bright Angel trail but most turned back in the first mile. It was a serious case of "what goes down must come up". The trail winds straight down (via switchbacks). There aren't any flat parts to give your legs a rest.
The 3-Mile House is actually at the 3.5 miles point (7 mile down & up). This was our turn around. My legs had no interest in continuing downhill. The steep downhill had my toes wanting to break through the ends of my hiking shoes.
Just footsteps away from being at the top again!
The park (like many) offers a free shuttle service to help cut down on traffic & congestion. It is heavily used since there is usually very limited parking. Even though it was off-season, you can see they were typically packed (like sardines)!
Lots and lots of new smells!
We explored some ruins just inside that park entrance.
We had a great time. The weather was nice for all but 1 day and that wasn't too bad, just cooler & VERY windy.
Hari OM
ReplyDeleteBreathtaking - literally by the looks of things!!! My heart and mind would so much wish to do this, but the body, well... Thanks for bringing to my armchair &*> YAM xx
So beautiful and sunny - looks like you all had a lot of fun.
ReplyDeleteThanks for taking us along on your vacation. It looks like you all had a great time.
ReplyDeleteHow beautiful. I've flown over the park many times, but never visited. My cousin Liz, who is a dog groomer and beekeeper up in the mountains out West does a mule ride down into it every year.
ReplyDeleteTHANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU FOR THIS BEAUTIFUL POST. OMCs!!! the elk and the doods have a staring contest. Did the elk just sit there never bothered to come closer? Amazing
ReplyDeleteLots of hugs and we are glad you had a good trip
Madi, HiC and Bcat
Im so jealous. I wanna go to the grand canyon. Its on my bucket list!!
ReplyDeleteDiana