East Side of Agate Canyon to Boucher Creek
early morning from my campsite at the foot of Geike Peak
Geike Peak and Scyllia Butte
Slate Creek to the lower left, and what I believe to be the Diana Temple?
I had it in mind to take a short day today and spend the afternoon exploring down Slate Creek to Crystal Rapid – one of the most notorious rapids in The Grand Canyon.
The simplest route into Slate leads down the east side, toward this prominent Tapeats pillar, and then down a steep slope to the north. I found some of the route to be cairned.
first sight of Crystal Rapid
This isolated beach has no footprints.
This offered the perfect setting for an afternoon siesta. I spent quite some time here, relaxing and watching river runners negotiate the rapid.
In this raft you can clearly see two people.
It goes under a wave…
…and emerges with only one!
This little guy was a friendly, curious companion during lunch.
Eventually I headed back up the canyon.
looking down at Crystal Rapid from above
At last, a familiar landmark on the rim I can recognize for sure – Eremita Mesa – Cocopa Point and Yuma Point.
and points farther to the east – Pima, Mojave, Hopi…
Whites Butte, high above the Redwall
Boucher Creek
Yuma Point and Whites Butte
This is the best looking water I’ve seen in four days – Boucher Creek near my campsite at the junction with the Tonto Trail.
