It seemed like a good idea...: Pardon me boy, is that the Chattanooga choo choo?

It was a full day today. The aforementioned train ride takes about two hours each way. It begins before you get on the train with a cute (but lame) cowboy drama. This includes horses, guns and five guys made up to look like cowboys. I think it's mostly intended to take your mind off of the fact that you're waiting to board the train.

The train is a collection of really old and not so old equipment. The first car was from the 1920's and the one we rode in coming back was much more modern with seats that recline, footrests and lots of leg room.

Since the ride takes about two hours they provide live entertainment like banjo playing and guitar playing. There is also an attendant in the car to answer questions, provide safety information, and interesting trivia about flora, fauna, and the facilities we're visiting.

Never having been to the grand canyon myself, I was gobsmacked by the awe and beauty, not to mention the immensity of it. It reminds me how small I am much like the ocean does. I'm sure my photos will not adequately capture the experience.

As is so often the case with group outings, we fragmented to see different things. The rest of our group chose to ride the bus around the area. I wanted to see the canyon and chose the road less traveled. Shortly after this picture, they were tired and found the bus.

It might sound over the top to say the experience was spiritual, but there were many moments when all I could do was silently stand in awe. I met others who were likewise affected.

I was impressed by how many made the trek down the trail toward the bottom. I have no idea how many went all the way.

By 1500 I was ready to sit down and drink something cold. My water bottle was running low. I found a rocking chair in the shade and enjoyed it and the last of the water.

The train started boarding passengers about 1515 and by 1530 we were underway.

I missed part of the trip when my eyelids slammed shut.

The cowboys mentioned earlier staged a train robbery for our entertainment. We were warned in advance and no one was alarmed.

In keeping with the local beer tradition, I was pleased to learn that they had a local amber.