ARIZONA. MARCH.
This was my second time to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. After my first time here, I made mental notes about places I didn’t get to that I wanted to see on my next visit. These included Kolb Studio and the Desert View Tower–both of which I was able to explore in addition to viewing the awesome Canyon.
This brings to mind something I have thought of several times in the past and have expressed to others: I feel very lucky as a nomad to RE-visit national parks and other nationally known locations again and again. While at such places, I see many folks who are typically making their one and only visit. It is not lost on me that I have the unique opportunity to return to see missed areas, to visit in different seasons, or simply to enjoy these exceptionally beautiful sights over and over.
The Kolb Studio was not what I expected. I thought it would be filled with the photography and equipment of the famous Kolb brothers, known for images of early Canyon visitors and for unique photos sometimes taken from risky vantage points. It did have some of their photography, but it was mostly a gift shop and a gallery of other artists’ works. That was a little disappointing, but I enjoyed what I did get to see of their work. The Studio building itself, perched on the edge of the Canyon near the well-known Bright Angel TH, was also interesting.
The Desert View Tower was worth the visit. Built in 1932 (the year of my parents’ birth, it so happens), it includes replicas of Native American building, art, petroglyphs, etc., and provides the highest viewpoint on the South Rim. Included in the area are informative kiosks and signage, the obligatory gift shop, food and drink (in other buildings), and restrooms.
It is always a treat to see the wonder of the Grand Canyon. It never looks real to me; it’s unfathomable. Yet, I love photographing it and trying to capture unique images. Again, I feel blessed to have visited it multiple times–twice to the South Rim; once, to the North, before the recent devastating fire. I hope all who are reading this get to visit.
(After clicking the first photo in the gallery for a slideshow, click the “i” for full captions).
