The Grand Canyon is a spectacular example of the power of erosion - a chasm 277 miles long and up to
         18 miles wide.  The average depth is about one mile.  Nowhere on earth are the scope of geologic time
         and the power of geologic processes as superbly and beautifully exposed as in these canyon walls.

          At the South Rim of the Grand Canyon there are six lodges, several eating establishments, gift shops,
         and unbelievable vistas.  Pre-dawn is the best time to see deer and elk.  Rock Squirrels nibble at your
         shoe laces.  Birding is excellent, white-throated swifts, violet-green swallows, mountain blue birds,
         ash-throated flycatchers, and condors playing tag.
      
             
                    Grand Canyon So. Rim                                              Wildflower -  Kaibab Limestone

             
                Mule Deer, So. Rim, 6:00 a.m.                       Bright Angel Trail - Round trip to Plateau Pt. 12.2 mi.

                
              Mather Point - Where is docentjoyce?                                                      Sunset
                   
                                                        Architecture of Mary Colter  -  South Rim

           Architect and designer, Mary Colter (1869-1958) represents the challenges of an early 20th century woman
           architect in a male dominated profession.  She transformed our perceptions of contextual national park
           places and sparked a keen interest in travel to the South West.

                                                   
                Hopi House 1905              Lookout Studio 1914               Hermits Rest 1914

              (for those on a limited budget - free coffee is available in the El Tovar Lodge at 7:00 a.m.