Another long hot summer in Arizona. The dry heat sizzles and peaks at 4pm. The pavement can definitely fry some eggs.
We went on a hike at the Grand Canyon’s South Kaibab Trail, among the many trails, this one was about a two hour trek down and a bit longer going back up. There were more experienced hikers venturing all the way down, but we stopped at the first base as we were unprepared. The trail was narrow and winding, and I experienced a few flashes of vertigo. The most important thing to do when this sets in is not to look down, and focus on the trail. Upon reaching the first base, we sat there snapping away, and a mountain squirrel came up, posed in front of Alex’s camera while he focused on the darkness blanketting parts of the canyon. It didn’t rain while we hiked, but a few minutes later in the car, a quick heavy storm descended upon us, and we decided the canyon hikes are done.

There were several donkeys along the trail, and they had come from way below, carrying sacks of cement, and tools for the canyon workers. I liked those donkeys! Next year, we will venture on the longer trails, backpacks and jugs of water in tow. Monument Valley and a camping trip in the Coconino Forest is already on my list.