Grand Canyon inspires, mystifies and mesmerizes

The word "grand" doesn't begin to do it justice.

Majestic? That's a bit more like it. Breathtaking merely touches on it. Incomprehensible is a good start.

The south rim of the Grand Canyon, located approximately three hours north of Phoenix, Ariz., rises 7,000 feet above sea level. The canyon, itself, encompasses more than 1.2 million acres of semi-arid land, rich with geologic features, stunning vistas and numerous hiking trails. It is also one of the most studied geographic areas in the world.

My husband, Scott; son, Sam and I visited there last week for a vacation and family reunion. We arrived on Tuesday from Sedona, where we'd witnessed the devastating Brins Fire as it roared toward Oak Creek Canyon. Fortunately no structures or people were seriously harmed while we were there and it was amazing to see the dedicated fire crews risk their lives to try and contain the blaze.

Our first view of the Grand Canyon was from Yavapai Point. I kept my eyes lowered to the ground until I was several feet from the guard fence. I lifted my gaze and was immediately transfixed. The stunning view before me blew away all expectations.

Millions of years of water, ice and wind erosion have helped form the canyon as we know it today. The colors in the limestone, shale and sandstone range from golden tan to fiery bronze to deep red. Light plays off the sides of the canyon and only intensifies the brilliance of these shades. Sunset was an unforgettable experience, though even in the heat and bright light of midday, the majesty of the canyon is hypnotizing.

I've seen plenty of pictures of the Grand Canyon during my lifetime and even in person, it didn't look real to me. It is simply beyond understanding.

Our extended family ventured to the bottom of the canyon the day before we arrived, and they shared stories with us as we hiked a portion of the rim trail. We were astounded to learn that temperatures at the bottom reach 130 degrees and even with that intense heat, the Colorado River is only about 45 degrees.

A highlight of the trip was visiting the John Wesley Powell memorial. I am a distant relative and it was a thrill to see this stately memorial in person. I also broke through a personal barrier by stepping out onto Powell Point for a photo with Scott. This was quite a feat for me; just looking at the high dive of our local pool gives me the willies.

"Good Morning America" rated the Grand Canyon their number one outdoor vacation destination, a title that is richly deserved. If you ever have the chance to see this natural spectacle for yourself, don't pass it up.

n Amy Roby can be reached by e-mail at RanchosRoundup@hotmail.com