Day 2 Grand Canyon (Thursday, May 10, 2012)

Mule Deer Right Outside Our Window

This morning, we were treated to a morning visit from the resident mule deer who are 'locals'  in Trailer Village.  They are a crazy looking combo of a mule (big head and ears) and a deer.  They cruise and graze usually during morning hours, and wander freely throughout the 
village....seemly unaffected by the many gawkers!  Cutter was most intrigued as he watched their wandering....he just sat quietly and watched; and watched!


We decided to head to Tusayan this morning to watch the much-advertised National Geographic Grand Canyon movie at the IMAX theater.  What a spectacular program.....every bit reflective of National Geographic quality.  As part of the ticket purchase, we got a pretty good discount on the DVD and look forward to sharing it with any interested.

Following the IMAX movie, we decided to drive to along Desert View Drive....in the Park, but not on the shuttle route. There are numerous 'points' and locations that were part of the early development of the Grand Canyon and offer a combination of history and spectacular viewing.

The Watchtower, Designed by Mary Coulter

Inspired by her extensive travels in the Southwest, Mary Coulter created the design for this awesome Watchtower... reminiscent of ancient cultures' architecture. The 85 step climb provides a 360-degree view of the Canyon.  There are just no words to adequately describe!!

Inside the Tower

Inside the tower, there are spectacular etchings and native art throughout, and the feeling of being among the native tribes is powerful.  The tower is 3 levels above the ground floor, followed by a top level outside surround that provides magnificent panoramic views.

From the Tower

An amazing view from the top!  Again, my pics cannot even begin to capture the majestic 'canyon-scape.'

Tusayan Museum

The Tusayan Museum contains lots of interesting information and displays of the earliest native tribes.  I just love reading about the ancient cultures and try to imagine myself living during those times.  Guess I would have to get used to no A/C!!

Early Native Pueblo Ruins

Not too far from the museum, there are ruins from an early native pueblo (multi-unit dwellings built on the mesas).  These structures were tall and had to be entered by climbing ladders up to the flat roof, and then down into the individual dwellings.

Moran Point

Two other stops along Desert Valley Drive were pretty spectacular.  This one is called Moran Point.  I thought the towering rocks were pretty awesome!

Grandview Point and the Colorado River

The last one for this evening is from Grandview Point...and shows an excellent view of the mighty Colorado River....still carving its way thru the Canyon!  This area was an early center for mining, and also for tourist development.  In fact, a hotel was built on Grandview Point in the early 1900's.  Visitors would travel there from Flagstaff in a stage coach.....traveling 10-12 hours in dicey conditions.  Amazing!


Tomorrow, Dick and I are going to try a moderate level hike into the Canyon....only about a 3 mile round trip, but expected to be pretty challenging - for us, anyway.  Stay tuned for how we do...