Mark’s Photos- #23

On September 10th of 2024, Cappuccino and I had a permit to camp at the bottom of the Grand Canyon along Bright Angel Creek. The start, on the South Rim, had been a cool 45°F, but by the time we reached the Colorado River 4,700 feet lower, the mercury was in the triple digits. It got to a little over 106°F by mid-afternoon. By dinner, it was down to about 100°. It was sweltering. But after our meal, we walked over to a bend in the River near Black Bridge. This was the scene we saw. Here, the Colorado was almost as smooth as glass, reflecting the ridge and bluffs in this lowest part of the canyon. The smell of coyote willow, mesquite, and creosote bushes, the lapping of the water, the angle of the sun, mirror river, and the vivid colors all filled our senses. It was almost overwhelming. Or maybe it was just the heat, but whatever it was, the effect was magical. Once again, for a few minutes, we were reminded of why we come to these amazing places.