Canyon of
Inspiration
by
Dale Cochoy
This special section is to display some pictures
of one of my favorite places that I have seen on this Earth. It is truly one of the
7 Wonders of the World. It is the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, USA.
It was first visited by the Spanish in 1540. It was created over many centuries by
the corrosive action of the Colorado River, which still winds through the bottom of the
canyon. The canyon is over a mile deep, from 8-10 miles wide and 200 miles long,
although the best viewing is from a much smaller section/park.
I first stopped there in 1970 when my new bride and I were traveling from Ohio to San
Diego, California for my first US Navy duty station. This was before my interest in
bonsai. I have been back since and found the trees as fascinating as the canyon ( well
almost). Every bonsai enthusiast should see these sites. As with many things,
pictures do not do it justice. The true grandeur can only be experienced in person.
During my last visit I walked the 4mile path along the rim . you can also take a tram that
stops at several "look out" points. You can get off and linger as long as you
want then simply get on another tram and go to the next spot. But you miss a lot.
I marveled at the centuries-old pines, junipers and sage that are clinging to
the edge and continually beaten by rain, wind, snow and sleet. You can also hike the
path to the bottom, take mule trips to the bottom and raft the river as it winds
through the canyon. If you live in the USA and have never been there, you should go!
If you are not from the USA and plan on visiting, you should put it on the
"Must See" list. It is open all year long.
Enjoy!