Lake Powell • Grand Canyon National Park • Painted Desert & Petrified Forest National Park
This portion of the Epic American West Tour is dominated by geologic wonders and extraordinary natural beauty.
Even without the attraction of Rainbow Bridge, time on the water is well rewarded on Lake Powell.
Lake Powell
You may only see the view from the water on Lake Powell if you choose to go to Rainbow Bridge, and there is more information on our "Southern Segment" pages found under the Options tab above. Although most of the lake is in Utah, we will access it from Page AZ, and this is a typical scene.
Sunset isn't always about bright colors. Deep shadows give a sense of great depth along the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon National Park
The Grand Canyon is five miles wide, and although there is no air pollution in this remote area, the canyon typically appears somewhat hazy just due to the distances being viewed. This does not detract from the beauty, and in fact may add to the sense of mystery.
An average day along the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park
The hardest part of photographing the Grand Canyon is knowing when to stop. So here are a few more shots from earlier in the day.
Left • An amazing desert landscape under threatening skies
Right • Giant trees once thrived at the equator. During their slow drift north, all of the molecules of wood were replaced by minerals, and nothing remains of the tree itself.
Painted Desert and Petrified Forest National Park
Whether continuing north or south, the theme doesn't change - it is still about great natural beauty, with an added emphasis on the culture of the original inhabitants of the land.
