Following our Rim-to-River introduction to the Grand Canyon, played out over the first two days, we returned for a deeper look at its fascinating geology, natural history, and art-inspiring viewpoints along the South Rim. The Trail of Time allowed us to venture back in time (or further down into the canyon) to touch 1.75 billion year old rocks. After a fantastic steak lunch at the Big E Steakhouse, we resumed our driving tour of scenic viewpoints capped by a beautiful Grandview Trail sunset.
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| Trail of Time with the ever-present Raven |
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| From upper part of Grandview Trail |
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| Peeking at O'Neill Butte from right side of Mather Point |
We enjoyed a leisurely day exploring the South Rim in greater depth. Instead of continuing our driving tour where we left off at Moran Point, we decided to visit the popular Mather Point before it got too crowded. Shortly before 10 am, it was still easy to find parking in the main Visitor's Parking Lot. As we strolled along the Rim Trail, we paid more attention to the plants, animals and birds of the Grand Canyon, as well as taking a closer look at rock layers and key geological features in the National Park.
Summary and Quick Links
Part 1: Dining and Sunset on the Rim. Sedona, Oak Creek Canyon, Lunch at El Tovar, a toe dip below the rim, Desert View, Navajo Point, Sunset at Lipan Point, Dinner at Plaza Bonita
Part 2: Rafting the Colorado. Rafting from Diamond Creek to Pearce Landing with Hualapai River Runners, Dinner at Diamond Creek Restaurant in Peach Springs
Part 3: The Trail of Time & Grandview Point. Mather Point, Yavapai Museum, Walking Back in Time, Big E Steakhouse, Moran Point, the protection of Ravens, a Grandview Trail Sunset
Part 4: Sunrise, Hiking down & Hermit Road. Hopi Point, Powell Point, an El Tovar breakfast, hiking Bright Angel Trail, Montezuma Castle, The Abyss, hiking Hermit Trail, Pima Point, Mohave Point
