A longer backpack trip that included some stormy weather and colder than normal temps. We were rewarded by scenes like this one as the storms cleared. The Grand Canyon changes by the season, day and hour.
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The clearing storm, taken shortly after the previous photo. These are the types of experiences that make the challenging hikes so worthwhile.
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Desert bighorn sheep are abundant in many areas of the Grand Canyon. I have seen them along the river in the 1,200′ to 2,500′ range and as high as just below the rim, close to 7,000′. They are quiet animals, both in sound and visually. I often wonder how many I have missed viewing simply by not being observant enough.
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A view in Peach Springs Canyon, in the far western end of the Grand Canyon. This is Hualapai country and lacks the crowds and development of the Canyon inside the National Park. The quiet and solitude in this area is good for the soul.
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Late afternoon, a storm clears and provides the hiker with more memorable views. I always tell folks not to put away the camera just because of inclement weather. Clearing storms consistently provide the best photos ops in the Canyon.
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Hiking along the River Trail at the very bottom of the Canyon. This is an area of the trail where one especially wants to be mindful of the trail.
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Canyon country always amazes me at the contrasting environments. Here is a dry, dusty and rocky side canyon with a very small area where the drainage runoff pools for a few extra hours. This small zone of extra moisture allows the water loving cottonwood to take root and provide welcome shade.
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So often hikers are taken by the majesty of the wide open views and forget to notice the more intimate settings. This is a small stream that provides dependable water for a few miles up a side canyon. While I certainly enjoy being among the riparian flora, it is also special simply to be near life giving water in such a dry and rocky world.