Note: this page was created retrospectively on 7/28/2006
The kids had a great time today riding the train to and from the Grand Canyon - South Rim. We started our day with breakfast on the RV, then we watched a "Wild West Shootout" show before boarding the train. One of the actors, a true cowboy who knew how to wield a whip, offered the kids of the audience the opportunity to come down and try their luck with a whip. Our niece Madison got up there and did it!
The train ride is fairly peaceful and we have great views from our seats on the train. Upon arriving at the depot at the South Rim, we disembark and here's where the trouble began. Everything I've read about the South Rim being overcrowded with tourists, especially in the summer -- is true. We wait for about 45 minutes to catch our tour bus which will take us to our buffet lunch and from there to a guided tour of the rim. Rarely have I seen an operation so disorganized.... no signs where to go or where to wait, and nobody in charge. Finally at 1:45 the bus driver is gracious enough to open the doors and let everyone board in a mad rush of hungry tourists. A few minutes later we arrive at the cafeteria, where it starts raining and dozens of us are soaked waiting in line just to get inside. The food is okay (probably biased due to extreme hunger) but we only have 30 minutes to eat before our bus leaves. Have you ever tried to feed hungry young'uns in a hurry? Bad situation! Anyhow we re-board the bus and visit 3 stops along the rim for about 20 minutes each, then return to the train station. The views are great but I kinda expected more for the money.
On the train ride back to Williams, they staged a mock robbery. They stopped the train and the bad guys from the morning's shootout board the train and scare the little kids. We had prepared Dawson and Matt for this, so they weren't upset, instead they were giggling most of the time!
Tomorrow it's off to Vegas, baby!
Photos:
Dawson and Matt disembark at the Grand Canyon depot
The Grand Canyon depot
Thunderstorm at the Grand Canyon
Here we are!
Train robber poses for the camera!
