June 7th ~ Kaibab, AZ
The view along Highway 89A
Today was primarily a travel day as we relocated from Page to Kaibab which is near the entrance to the north rim of the Grand Canyon.
From Page our route took us through some more monumental rock formations, large open plains with little more than scrub brush, and then alongside the majestic Vermilion Cliffs.
Massive boulders dot the landscape
Vermilion Cliffs
The California Condor is the largest flying bird in North America and is sadly on the endangered species list. These giant birds have a wing span up to 9 1/2 feet and can weigh up to 25 pounds. There is an ongoing program to try to save these massive birds and the Vermilion Cliffs is one of the few places they can still be spotted.
More information can be found about the preservation efforts here.
Taken from on top of the Navajo Bridge
One short stop at Navajo Bridge where we got to see a Condor Nest high on the side of a cliff over the river. The new chick was just born on May 30th. We hoped to catch a glimpse, but it was tucked out of sight amongst the rocks. We had to settle for knowing one more precious hatchling has entered the world in hopes of keeping the Condor from extinction.
The Condor chick is inside the triangle-shaped opening, but hidden from view
After leaving Ellie Mae at the Kaibab Camper Village, we motored over to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.
North side entrance to the Grand Canyon
We spent about three hours at the North Rim which included a short hike on Bright Angel Point Trail which takes you out to a wide open viewing platform for unobstructed views of the canyon below.
We are at 8800 feet in elevation here, so we did more of a stroll pace instead of hike.
Along Bright Angel Point Trail
The view from the trail
I like the views from the south side of the canyon better, but never having been to the north side, I was curious to check it out.
After our hike we relaxed on the verandah at the lodge and had a bite of dinner as the sun dipped toward the horizon.
Relaxing on the verandah soaking up the sunshine and view
This is where we sat inside the lodge for a light meal
Tomorrow we move on to Zion National Park.
GRATITUDE MOMENT: Today I am grateful for the hard work and efforts of the Peregrine Fund and others who are making great strides in preserving the California Condor.
Everyone knows about the Grand Canyon but very few have heard of the Vermillion Cliffs. Aren’t they Awesome!?
We had to stop several times to take pictures and stare at their colors.
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They were beautiful to see. Did not get to see my California Condor though 😦
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Not a condor, but we were there in of May 2010 and the whole area was in bloom. It was Spectacular!
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Even the drive looks divine ❤
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Of course I’m inspired by your condor observations. Their story is a sad but hopeful one. If you guys are ever in Boise, check out the World Center For Birds of Prey, where you can see them in captivity.
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Mike, we did see one in captivity a few years back, don’t recall where, but I remember standing only a few feet away from it and being astounded when it opened its wings.
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Another nice post. The Vermillion Cliffs are very pretty. Too bad you were unable to see the California Condor, but it is good to know that there is a nesting pair there with a baby. The canyon and views are spectacular. I look forward to seeing your post from Zion National Park. I did do a short hike when I went through there and really enjoyed it.
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Zion was nice to revisit after about 10 years. Hoping I have Internet this evening to be able to post my pictures.
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We also made that drive by the Vermillion Cliffs on our way to Kaibab Camper Village eleven years ago. I had never heard of them before we stopped at an overlook and read all about them. We too had been to the South Rim before and enjoyed seeing the North Rim. You will love Zion.
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Sounds like we are on a similar journey 😃
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We made that drive 11years ago! Your post brought back fond memories
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Loved the ‘boots’ picture! 🙂 … loved all the others too, but that one made me smile. 🙂
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We were not particularly original with that shot, but I liked it too 🙂
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Zion and Bryce Canyon are fantastic – you’re in for a treat.
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Glenn, we saw both of these NP’s about 10 years ago and loved them so much that I wanted a return visit. They are both spectacular and I am so thankful that they are being preserved for future generations to enjoy.
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Loving these posts! So many memories coming back.
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Amazing, I should catch up with your blog before commenting. 😉
That’s why there are chocolate and vanilla, and North and South rims!
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We always welcome your input and comments.
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