The ring-porous Gambel Oak is susceptible to freeze induced embolism. And the best I can figure is Saturday’s snow and cold (next post down) caused a colorful fall like reaction.
To visit other seasons from around the world, or to share a look into your own, go to My World Tuesday by clicking here.
The snow piles scattered around look like nature’s ice sculptures. And I’m so glad they’re getting smaller.
Welcome to Grand Canyon National Park, the North Rim. The gate will open at 7 am on Saturday May 15, 2010.
House Rock Valley and Kaibab Plateau looking west
Whether you drive into the North Rim from the east…
Kaibab Plateau looking south
…or from the north you’ll experience summer desert, then possibly winter on the rim.
Either way, you’ll junction at Jacob Lake. A good place to stop for a snack. They home bake a variety of awesome cookies, the milkshakes are huge, and they have an absolutely amazing gift shop full of many Native American arts.
You might also want to check out the Kaibab Forest Visitor Center next door. There’s as much to do and see in the forest as the park.
Or stop at the Kaibab Lodge for a meal about 20 miles (32 km) up the road. They have overnight accommodations quite frequently when the park is full.
The closer you get to the park the more it may still look like winter.
Be prepared to show your National Park Pass at the entrance station. What, don’t have one. Then it will cost $25 per car load to get in. Or ask about buying a pass. There are several different options.
Have reservations? Check in at the Grand Lodge after 4pm.
Then ask a porter to move the luggage from the parking lot to your cabin.
Take a walk out the Bright Angel Point trail…
…for magnificent views.
Brachiopod
You could even look for ancient sea fossils along the way but please don’t collect them so others may enjoy as well.
Roaring Springs Canyon and North Kaibab trail
Maybe you have a permit to hike across the canyon or just want to enjoy a few miles of the North Kaibab trail.
Trancept Canyon from Widforss trail
Or there’s other easier trails to enjoy the canyon views.
There’s also a 20 mile (32 km) scenic drive with multiple overlooks and the Cape Final trail is a gentle 2 miles (3.2 km) each way through Ponderosa Pine forest.
Sego Lily
You might see wildflowers along the way.
And spot a Kaibab squirrel.
Be sure to stop into the Visitor Center and get the latest scoop on what to do at the North Rim. Maybe I’ll see you there.
I hope you’ll get a chance to greet the morning from the lodge veranda as the sun highlights the colorful canyon walls.
And if you keep following my blog you’re sure to see a whole lot more of Grand Canyon as I work my third Park Ranger summer season here. Better yet, come for a visit.