Our journey continues deeper into the heart of the Canyon…

Leaving Little Nankoweap Camp, the flotilla of boats meandered down the mighty Colorado River for nearly 16 miles today.  The canyon really opened up as we left the Marble Canyon, and we were able to catch a glimpse of the Desert View Watchtower as we entered the more open expanses.  Viewers at this watchtower would have wondered looking down upon the three historic vessels ply the river a mile beneath them, perhaps questioning whether they had been transformed back into the 1950s for just a moment in time.  Using Tom’s vast expertise and visual knowledge of the river, both he and Chris hiked high above the river to film the wooden boats as they drifted by.

While there was little in the way of whitewater excitement, we did manage to battle the elements later in the day.  Arriving at Tanner Wash, just above the roar of Tanner Rapid about a half an hour prior to sunset, all was calm.  Just after sunset, as the lengthy but delicious pizza dinner preparation was underway, a stout upriver wind picked up, moving sand, blowing the fire out, and sending Tim’s tent nearly into the river.  The headlamp search party saved the day, and no items appeared to have been lost.  Later in the evening, the rain began to pour…