Lower Bass Canyon, as I approached the Tonto Plateau

Morning at Bass Rapid was quiet, peaceful, and uneventful. Soon I was back up to the Tonto Trail and on my way east.

east

There’s Havasupai Point and Fossil Mountain, away on the rim on the left side of this photo. I think this is the end of the ridge that marks the Grand Scenic Divide. The Divide is a place of geological significance in Grand Canyon. West of here, the Tonto Plateau more or less disappears, as do the dramatic buttes and temples that characterize the canyon to east. The rock layer called The Esplanade becomes prominent as a hikers’ corridor to the west. I think the prominent feature in the middle of the photo may be called “Dick’s Pillar.” Really. Named after a guy named Richard, of course.

Well good morning, Mr. Snake. This guy must have been four feet long. I think he’s a “Great Basin Gopher Snake.” Yes?

west

first look at Serpentine Canyon… “Serpentine” hmm…..

the mouth of Serpentine Canyon and its corresponding rapid

a closer look at Fossil Mountain and Havasupai Point

There were some nasty looking pockets of water where the trail crosses the bed of Serpentine Canyon. I was warned that the water there tends to have quite the laxative effect. Fortunately my reserves were still quite full from filling up my water in morning anyway.

the point between Serpentine Canyon and Emerald Canyon

Emerald Canyon

Havasupai Point

Don’t miss the next page (This day continued)