Tag Archives: Arizona: Grand Canyon

Biking and Birding Higher than a Helicopter!

Yesterday Molly and I biked higher than a helicopter! Need proof … check out my photos! We started our ride at 6,800 feet above sea level in the Grand Canyon Village, and then climbed another 650 feet while cycling 20 miles. As noted, we were above the helicopters! In addition to some fantastic vistas, I acquired a new lifer, the Juniper Titmouse.

Biking Higher than Helicopters

The Juniper Titmouse

Molly, our Bikes, and one Vista

Birds like home … White Breasted Nuthatch

Grand Canyon’s First Light!

It is a bit after 10 am, and I’ve already had a full day. The morning (night?) started at 3:30 am when I visiting the Grand Canyon’s rim and hoped the skies would clear and give me some dramatic starscapes set off against the Canyon’s dramatic skyline and lit by a waning moon. Unfortunately some pesky clouds hung around, and I never achieved the photograph that was in my mind. However, the clouds of night became a nice opportunity at sunrise. Thus, along with many of my closest friends (i.e. other tourists), I watched the bright yellow globe pop up over the Grand Canyon rim. Unlike many of my close friends, once the sun was popping up I made a beeline down the Canyon Rim trail to find a view to the west. This image was the result!

The Sun’s First Light Looking West

Actual Sunrise Looking East

The Pesky Clouds at 3:30 am!