It has now been a little over a year since I had the privilege to experience an unforgettable rafting trip, 188 miles, down the Colorado through the Grand Canyon. Never in my life did I ever think that I would have done that, especially at the age of 51. I learned a remarkable amount about nature, the human soul, and myself in those seven days. Soon, I am returning for another adventure on another river through another canyon and have been thinking about what I am looking forward to on this trip.
I am looking forward to learning about the Green River and Desolation Canyon. I want to learn about the people that were there before us, about the geology of the area, about the way this river runs and the rafts that run it.
I am looking forward to the contrasts we will be experiencing. To having the contrast of 100+ degree heat and the cool river water, of excitement and relaxation, of being on vacation but feeling physically exhausted, of the unknown and expected.
I am looking forward to being better prepared. I know what to pack and not pack. I have fewer fears about my abilities and what others may think. I am now able to basically understand how to read a river map. I am looking forward to setting off down the river as strangers and leaving as friends.
I am looking forward to being a part of nature. To getting that “inner glow” from being physically active for five days, of having running water surround me, of being in awe with the beauty of nature in every direction, of sleeping under the stars.
Most importantly, I am looking forward to getting lost in a world without technology-no phones, no computers, no screens. The level of the sun will tell time. Last night I went to hear a local singer/songwriter that specializes in songs about rural Pennsylvania. This line from the song North of 80, sums it up nicely:
“Next time you are on the road feeling shaky in your soul, take off you watch, throw it away” –Van Wagner
See you soon Western River!
Karen Bennett
Grand Canyon 6/7 Day Trip
Green River in Desolation Canyon
