Monday, September 14, 2009

Grotto Canyon

Sunday morning. Sunshine and blue sky as far as the eye can see. Glorious. To glorious to spend in the city. They boys felt it too and begged to go hiking to Grotto Canyon. Didn't take much convincing.

Approaching the mouth of the canyon.




In late summer/early fall, this canyon is easy enough to traverse. We avoid it in the spring and early summer. As you can imagine, the creek crossings become more difficult with spring runoff. Now, they are just so much fun for a 5 and 6 yr old. No wonder they beg to hike the canyons!




The rock is worn smooth where the water rushes by in the spring. It is slippery and so much fun! Imagine the power of that water.




Up to the falls.






Not much water, but more then I expected as it has been so dry here for weeks.




Onto the dry part of the canyon, the geocaches and the 'cave'. In past trips, the boys have begged to climb to the 'cave' but we have always said no. This time, we let them go.








It was rather steep and a few dangerous spots. Here is a rare photo of me waiting at the mouth of the cave (rather just a very very large opening) waiting to assist the boys back down through the steepest, slippery spot.






The safest way down.




Looking back.












After a long day. Ryan crashes, Matthew...never.



















What a wonderful day. Nothing recharges my batteries like a day hike in the mountains. Ready to take on the week.

6 comments:

Jennifer said...

Love it! Looks like a wonderful day indeed.

Allie said...

Beautiful photos! Looks like the boys had so much fun!

Sara said...

Looks like a great day yo all had. We'll have to try that hike sometime.

Unknown said...

It is so beautiful there. I might have to go for a hike there sometime too.

Jaye @ canadian-mom.ca said...

Woo hoo, looks like a great time! And awesome pictures to save those memories :)

Sue said...

My gosh ... is THAT your backyard?! :) Sure puts New Jersey to shame! (haahaa) ... Sounds like you had a much better hiking experience than we did. And how cool it is to see Matthew climbing all over those rocks, brace and all ... That's enough to life a mom's spirits!