looking back at Grapevine

Wotan’s Throne (left) and Vishnu Temple, two more of the most prominent features in eastern Grand Canyon

A sliver of the Colorado River is visible near the mouth of Grapevine

east

Now out along the rim of the inner gorge again, the canyon is wide and even more beautiful late in the day.

west

Zoroaster Temple to the west

Angels Gate to the north

the dry bed of Burro Creek

I continue walking as long as is practical – before sunset falls on the inner canyon – and find an inviting, scenic place to make camp before dark. It’s just east of Boulder Creek, near the foot of Lyell Butte below Shoshone Point.

Having a dry camp is always a pleasure for its flexibility, and this random location is no exception. I rig the rain fly on my tent for protection against the wind, and it blows moderate and steady through the night.