April 18, 2011

Our first stop after leaving Flagstaff was Cameron Trading Post. It was established in 1919. It is a trading post, motel, restaurant, grocery, and art gallery. Talked to a Navajo weaver named Elsie, who had made all the rugs that were on display in the room where she was spinning yarn. Visited the Gallery, where many beautiful Native American items were on display. Many were new items, but some were very old and cost thousands of dollars.

We entered the Grand Canyon at the east entrance. Everyone gets in free this week because it is National Park Week. There are lots of visitors here. We stopped at The Watchtower, designed by Mary Elizabeth Jane Colter, who also designed Hermit's Rest, Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Lodge, The Lookout, and Hopi House.

Stopped along the way at the Indian Museum and Ruins, and several viewpoints. When we got to Grandview Point, John put on his hiking shoes and backpack and hiked a couple of miles down into the canyon. He said it is a beautiful trail.

Checked into the Yavapai Motel and went to eat dinner at the Yavapai Cafeteria. Afterwards, we stopped by the general store to look around.

Now I am back at the cafeteria with my computer as there is no wireless in our rooms. As I was setting up, Pam and Fred Fite stopped by to talk. They just came in from Sedona an hour ago.

This is their first visit to the Canyon. The rest of the hikers arrive tomorrow afternoon.