Snow Canyon at 102º?

No wonder the sand dunes in this state park are petrified. It is hot here! Definitely not named after the precipitation! It's actually named after early explorers Lorenzo and Erastus Snow!

After taking Tuesday the 8th of June off (it was 109º), I decided to stay somewhat local and head up to Snow Canyon State Park. This unique landscape was used as a backdrop in films such as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Electric Horseman, and Jeremiah Johnson.

After a good local breakfast, I headed out to explore the petrified and real sand dunes as well as the lava fields and flows. There are a number of very unusual geological formations you can visit in a small area. as the photos show, there is a lot of different sights to be found.

The lava is jet black and in huge squarish chunks.

The petrified sand dunes look like they were frozen in time. They were created when ancient sand dunes hardened into stone under the overlying subsequent material, which later eroded away.

Close up, you can see the lichens and the texture of the dunes.

There are also real sand dunes or sand areas.

My Zion water canister is drained - it is time to head home. An interesting day exploring this unique environment.

Once again to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon

Relaxing on the edge.

Monday the 7th, I decided get up early (out by 6!) to return to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon to explore more of its wonders. This time I revisited my perch near the Bright Angel Point and took new photos - this time with sun and early morning light! I then explored the various turnouts on the Cape Royal Road. The canyon has many unique looks and my day was spent exploring, taking photos of the canyon and wildflowers and relaxing at one of the nation's real treasures.

Some of the flowers and trees - The Pinon Pine, Sticky Starwort flower (white) and Parish Goldeneye flower. I also caught a Raven visiting in a nearby tree. Finally, in one of the Canyon pics, you can see the Colorado River through the Angel's Window.

After returning from the North Rim, I once again headed to the Texas Roadhouse for a well-deserved steak dinner. Tuesday, I rested and read. One thing I am actually doing on this trip which is quite unusual is I am relaxing and enjoying a few good books. Stay tuned!