“Look out for ‘gators emJay!!!
Our 11 day trip was basically the CRATES 8 day trip stretched to 11 by adding in the hiking component. It was a nice variation from the strictly rafting theme and allowed us to get some fantastic views looking down, instead of just up from the river.
At times we would pass long the river banks . . .
. . . other times it would be uphill.
Along the way we might see the ruins from an ancient dwelling. . .
but one ALWAYS needed to watch where one was going. No falls or sprained ankles during the trip. Although we did ‘loose’ one hiker for several hours but it all turned out good.
The hiking was done at a leisurely pace with plenty of time to stop, eat, drink and get a lesson from our resident naturalist, emJay.
Slot canyons were a favorite type of hike from river level.
Sometimes a boost was needed. John was always there to lend a ‘helping hand’!!!!
The views were always exceptional . . .
. . . but what goes up, must come down.
This was an fun area where the Little Colorado River met the Colorado River. The silty mountain fed river was shallow and warm enough to swim in when we stopped . . .
. . . what adult diapers??? No just our life jackets inverted to protect our bottoms . . .
. . . as we rode the current through the natural sluice gates of the river channel . . .
fun . . .
but hold your nose.
We made many runs!!!
Along another hike we found these pottery shards left . . .
. . . from all that remained of this ruin.
Some hikes were much, MUCH, higher and were not for the faint of heart. We all became very accustomed to the meaning of the phrase ‘Vertical Exposure’.
But there was time for stopping, reading or as Diana demonstrates here, paiinting!
Very windy, felt like flying!!!!
mmmmm . . not everyone made it out!!!
The river way is a living, breathing thing and at this time of year there is water around every corner.
A Kodak moment . . .
enjoyed by all.
Except Dewey who grabbed a cat nap in a shady spot. Young people can sleep ANYWHERE, ANYTIME!!!
Slot canyons many times lead to . . .
an uphill climb.
WAY UP!!!!!
There usually was a BIG payoff though . . .
One . . .
. . . two
On one hike, emJay and I scrambled through ‘Cactus Flats’ on the way out . . .
then along the river to this beauitiful spot.
Our Wisconsin gang . . .
Watch your footing . . .
Down at last . . .
and back on the rafts . . .
that had literally been lashed to the rocks.
Some rafters even brought along SUP (StandUpPaddleBoards).
Some hikes were a little more ‘challenging’ than others . . .
. . . but they all eventually lead us back to the river.