It turns out there are only so many days of relaxation before rest transforms into agitation. After so many consecutive episodes, the political drama of The West Wing becomes muddled and confused with actual, real-life current events. And then one begins to question if there is more to life than waiting to see if the executive staff manages to escape the political blowback from the President’s choice to hide his case relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. And at this point, one must pack his bags, get behind the wheel, and just drive.
So exploring I went. My destination was Flagstaff followed by a day trip to the Grand Canyon. I figured before leaving Arizona it was necessary to see this natural wonder. I originally had plans to hike rim to rim but the outlandish cost and promise of shade temperatures around one hundred five was enough reason to defer until a milder season.
While in Phoenix, many of my friends have made it a point to be hosts for something known as couch surfing (http://www.couchsurfing.com). It basically provides accommodation to travelers with hosts who are often excited to show off their city. When I traveled to Seattle over spring break I stayed with a couch surfer and had an incredible experience. Looking for another great trip, I decided to do the same while in Flagstaff.
I stayed with a girl named Alex and had a great time. As soon as I arrived in Flag, we drove out to Walnut Canyon and hiked down to view some pre-Columbian cave dwellings. It was a fascinating day trip. Not to mention the weather was a much welcomed twenty-five degrees cooler than Phoenix. That afternoon we relaxed around downtown. I was able to meet many of Alex’s friends who were incredibly fun and interesting.
The following day I made my trip out to the Grand Canyon. I had seen pictures of the Grand Canyon before, but it is difficult to understand its expansiveness without a personal encounter. I parked near the visitor’s center and hiked about 2.5 miles along the southern rim. Around lunch I arrived at El Tovar Lodge where I enjoyed a delicious meal before turning around and walking back to my car. That night Joe, Charley, and Alana met up with me back in Flag. They were on their way to Sequoia National Park to camp for the weekend. We hung out some time before fatigue from the long day set in. We said our goodbyes and returned to our respective couch surfers for the night.
Even though I mistakenly left my camera at home, I still created memories on this trip that will stick in my mind for some time. More important, I alleviated my stir-craziness for the time being. For now it’s time to return to Phoenix and begin preparing for my drive back to Texas. Again I find myself at the end of one era and the dawn of a new adventure.
