We made it to the canyon...I think

We drove up from Scottsdale after a quick breakfast with dad and the Ulrichs. Disregard my see thru shirt... Was not aware until after the photo was taken.











They headed off to play theTPC Scottsdale course and We drove north to Flagstaff via Sedona and the red rocks canyon. Amazing!



















Duh...


It was really overcast and cold, but still amazing. As we got up in elevation the snow got thicker and thicker on the ground, very beautiful. It was the most snow P has seen...until later in the afternoon.
As we got into the greater park area the snow began to fall. By the time we got to the park it was coming down very hard. So much so that the girl at the front gate warned us that there was zero visibility and there are no refunds for lack of view, we powered through.
Our first stop was the backcountry office to get our passes. Usually you have to make reservations, not today, plenty of spots. The good thing was that no one looked at us like we were nuts for going in. Most opinions are that the canyon is it's most beautiful in the snow. It is quiet, peaceful, empty and the wild life pops out against all the snow. The weather forecast calls for about 4-8 inches overnight and then clearing in the morning. We bought some ice clamp ons for our boots since it will be slick.


















Once we had tomorrow all set up we checked into our hotel, the Bright Angel Lodge right on the canyon edge. At least I think the canyon is there. She wasnt kidding when she said zero visibility.









Our room is basically a little cottage right on the rim and steps from the trailhead.
We went out to the lookout and realized that the only other people here are Japanese teenagers. We all know how awesome Japanese teenager tourists are. The photo below they are saying "we are Japanese!!!". Pretty amazing.






These are views into the canyon. I swear.









And someone thought it would be funny to throw snowballs at me while I was taking artsy pictures. At least he has good form.









This is what should be out this window..



El tovar porch. Would be a great spot for a post hike glass of wine, except all the snow and zero view.



Instead we are having wine here. Tovar Pinot Gris for me and grand canyon pilsner for P. By the way, el tovar is the historic lodge on the rim, right next to our lodge. We will be staying here after our hike.









Tomorrow we hike into the canyon and will be sleeping under the stars. We have already reserved our steak dinner at Phantom Ranch down there, hopefully the best steak we have ever consumed.
Wish us luck!! See you on Monday!

Location:El Tovar Lodge, Grand Canyon, Arizona