Grand Canyon at Sunset
Getting There
The sun was just coming up over Chicago as we boarded our flight bound for Phoenix Arizona. In just a few hours we would arrive with map in hand for the drive north to the Grand Canyon. We were assured that the weather would be perfect for sunset photography when the captain announced clear skies and warmer than average temperatures.
Once we arrived in Phoenix we picked up our rental vehicle and we were on our way. It would be approximately a five hour drive to the canyon. It was an unexpected treat as we drove passed various landscapes along the way, from desert flora such as chollas and saguaros to mountains and valleys. After a few hours of driving the population grew scarce so we made careful note of the amount of gas we had left and how much further we needed to drive.
A few Jimmy Buffet albums later we came across a nondescript sign that read Grand Canyon next left. An easily missed sign to say the least. From there is would be another fifty or so miles to the visitors center.
Along the way we were tempted to stop at the various signs pointing out scenic viewpoints, and handmade Navaho Tribal wares, but we knew that time was passing and along with the light of the day so we pressed on.
The scenery changed again in unexpected ways. Tall sandy rock mountains to the left and canyon on the right, it was incredible. Soon we arrived as the ranger station, we were at the edge of our seats thinking that we had arrived. We soon learned it would be another twenty miles or so along two lane windy road, would we make it there in time to set up for sunset we began to wonder.
We made the decision to locate our hotel, just a short drive from the visitors center, so we could check in and get settled as it would dark and getting late once we were done shooting for the evening. After a few wrong turns we managed to find it. We checked in, and decided to grab a quick bite to eat as we were both famished by this point in time. A packet of airplane peanuts will only take you so far :)
Time to Make Our Way to the Rim
We were given a map upon entering the national park and located Yaki Point. We learned prior to our trip that Yaki Point was considered one of the best locations to view the setting sun. A shuttle bus (green route) would take us there from the main parking lot as private vehicles were not allowed to park at this location.
We boarded the bus, camera gear in tow, and headed to the point. After just a short ten minute ride we were there. Immediately the canyon came into view as you approached the guard rail fencing. It was the first time both Steve and I have visited this magnificent location.
We immediately began to scout for the perfect lookout point. We settled on a location and after setting up our gear and looking through the viewfinder we realized that the view was not ideal. Then I looked to my right and off in the distance I noticed an area of the rim that jutted out just a bit so I said to Steve let me go check that out.
It was a short hike but then I came upon the area. I could see a platform type rock that would work for the setup, however the thirty foot walk to get there was only about three feet wide with a drop to the bottom of the canyon on both sides. It didn't matter, this was the location. So I went back to where Steve was and we picked up our gear and headed to the new spot.
We carefully walked out to the platform. I must have held my breathe the entire way there. Once out there the feeling of "weak in the knees" did not go away. It was exhilarating and frightening at the same time. It didn't matter, we had a job to do and had to get to work.
We needed to be mindful of when and where we moved while working. Calling out "I'm moving now" so the other one would be aware and we wouldn't trip over ourselves or our gear.
The sun proceeded to set and danced light and shadows over the canyon. It was inspiration beyond belief. I do consider myself to be a pretty decent photographer, however its nearly impossible to capture the grander of this magnificent place. We did our best.
The sun had set behind the edge of the rim and it was time to head back. The hike would be through the darkness for a good part of the trail until we met the bus. As photographers it seems that we're always the last ones out and hiking through darkness. I've learned to carry small flashlights for these occasions. The only wildlife that we came across luckily was a startled bunny rabbit, thank goodness!
~Kimberly
