Grand Canyon, the final episode

Our last full day at the Grand Canyon was epic. So epic.

We rode our bikes to the village, about a mile and a half, then rode (most) of the West Rim route to Hermit’s Rest.  It was exhausting – the sun was pretty brutal, and some of the hills were as well, but there is nothing that will ever compare in my life to riding my bike along the rim of the Grand Canyon.  All in all, we rode over 12 miles.

 

The evening sunset is one that I will forever remember. I’d read about a relatively unknown viewpoint on the East rim and had some vague directions to it… it isn’t in the guidebooks, or on any maps, so the hope was very few people would be there.  (I love the Grand Canyon, I always have, but the people… tens of thousands of people, can be very hard to tolerate after awhile. I craved silence to appreciate the scenery!)

We hiked 1.9 miles uphill to the edge of the canyon, and there it was… the “secret” viewpoint I’d read about.  Wow.  There were a few other people there, but everyone was respectful and enjoying the peace and quiet, most of us with snacks or treats, and in my case, craft beer from North Carolina.

 

The sunset was spectacular, but I think the best part was being virtually ALONE on this outcropping of rocks into one of the most magnificent wonders of the world.  After the sun had dipped below the rocks and the other tourists left, we were greeted by a handful of NPS employees (mostly interns and seasonal park rangers) who were also looking for a place to unwind and enjoy the quiet after dealing with pesky tourists all day.  We met a cowboy from Quebec (he had spurs and a belt buckle and everything) and a couple of others.  We shared a toast over craft beer and enjoyed the peace and quiet.  That night is hands down one I will remember forever!