The 187 river-mile, 12-day journey down the Colorado River, through the Grand Canyon, began at the putin at Lee's Ferry. The *cruise* was sponsered by the Colorado Mountain Club, and guided by Hatch River Expeditions outfitters. The reason I say *cruise* rather than raft trip is because us mountain folk are not familiar with prepared meals, fresh fruits, vegetables, h'orderves, happy-hour, and a sit-down crapper (groover with a seat) with a view. Life is good, eh!

Our group consisted of 20 seasoned mountain-folk, 2 head boatmen, and 2 swampers on two 35-foot s-rig rafts. Hatch normally runs this trip in 7 days, but it was extended to 12 days to allow for addition side canyon hiking and exploring. The longest hike was 9 miles.

The weather was outstanding, with it warming up in the 90's by the time we progressed to the lower part of the Canyon. No rain, just some windy days. And....sand, sand, and more sand.

I could not wrap my arms around the Canyon, it is too big. But I could experience a bit of the Canyon, that which I could touch, and feel. Like the feel of the sharp schist, climbing the narrow canyons, the cold Colorado, the warm Havasu Creek, the pounding of the falls on my head, the roar of Thunder Spring, and the cool, star-studded nights. These experiences are now in my chemistry.

Definitely the trip of a lifetime.