Jeff and I went to the Grand Canyon this month. We got there mid-day, after the high winds they’d had earlier had quieted down. After a picnic lunch overlooking the canyon, we started hiking east along the rim trail. Our 2 mile hike would end at the South Kaibab Trailhead.

As we approached it, Jeff put his hand out to stop me. I froze. Just ahead, on the trail and in the trees beside it, was a herd of young elk. We were within 20 feet of them. Jeff got out his camera and took photos. They weren’t fazed by the clicking of his shutter. Eventually, other hikers neared and the elk ambled off into the woods.

When we got to South Kaibab Trailhead, a herd of mule deer and another herd of elk wandered in the parking lot and trees. I got a photo of an elk by the water station. A guy turned on the faucet to let the elk drink. When the bus for Yaki Point arrived, the elk spooked and left.

It was a magical day. We ended it watching the sunset at Yaki Point.

~ Linda-Ann Stewart