59.01Touched by the Colorado River, including the lakes and dams it fills along its epic journey. (Part 1 of 2)

The Colorado River feeds Lake Powell.

  

For a long while, I have wished to pay tribute to one of our favorite parts of the United States. In fact, Jenni reminded me that I had produced a blog along those lines two years ago. I wish she hadn't. Life is much better when one can amble about not being reminded of an absent mind. Anyway, before I forget, the concept covers the regions through which the Colorado River flows. Whatever and wherever the river touches, it beautifies the land whether it's deserts (plenty of those) or forests. It provides a visual beauty, opportunity for water activities, as well as surrounding cliffs to climb which it created through the strength of its flow. In addition, one should never take for granted that it sustains human lives as well as those of animals and birds (fish too) just as do most rivers. Unfortunately, some counties and cities, not to mention a name such as Los Angeles, take ('steal') a disproportionate amount of its water. 

  

  The Colorado River begins its journey of approximately 1,450 miles at Lake Granby in Colorado, is joined/supplemented along the way by many tributaries, enters Utah, Arizona, Nevada, California and then 'emigrates' to Mexico (makes a change). There is also a connection with Wyoming and New Mexico although I can't see it—perhaps it's the inclusion of the tributaries sourced from those states. The dam/lakes we've visited and enjoyed intimately along the way include Powell, Glen Canyon, Mead, Hoover, Mojave, Davis, Parker, Havasu and we even spotted some water in Yuma, a very dry hotspot. There are many other reservoirs, some we have passed, but not yet visited. The days are still young...well, it's a nice thought anyway. 

  In the unlikely event that someone was to pose this question: 'What in or about the United States has made a memorable impression upon you?' I would think the scenes and experiences along the river would be my reply. So much for Biltong, Braaivleis and Chevrolet. 'Oops, wrong country.' 

Page, Arizona:  Cathedral Wash near Lees Ferry, in Arizona but close to the border with Utah.
One of many hurdles to overcome to reach the river.
Worth every hurdle as Jen sits on a rock of the bay.
A glimpse of Lake Mead.
Perhaps, a favorite spot of the river, Spenser Trail from Lees Ferry. Should do this hike once a week.
In Page, the river takes one of its frequent 'horseshoe bends' at this very popular spot. There are many other occasions in which it does this and fortunately, to-date, we've not come across any hikers at these remote, latter places.
Jenni closing in on the river.
A view of Hoover Dam from a mountain across the way.
Following a kayak trip on Lake Powell, Jen hikes in Antelope Canyon. This part of the canyon can only be accessed via water.
An example of the route followed in the kayak during the initial stage.
Navigating toward Antelope Canyon.
Lake Mead in the distance from a free climb of Lava Butte in Nevada.
Nightfall at Lake Mead. 

Jen climbs upstream at hot springs off the river. She shouts out that 'she hates her outfit.' "Why don't you change," I replied facetiously. She thought about it.
Then did it including backpack.
"Do you come here often? I'm thinking, you and me should hang out together." Unfortunately, on the way over here, I got 'sandbagged.' 

Grand Canyon with the Colorado River below as we try our luck climbing at Plateau Point, the end of the Bright Angel Trail.
Part success...now to get down safely. As a Texan might utter, "How dem mountains!"
Bullhead City, Nevada, border with Arizona: Davis Dam.
Back to the top of Spenser Trail above Lees Ferry.
The river flows into and from Lake Havusu while Jen reaches Lizard Peak.
Jen trudges up a stunning trail in an incredible place.
Our favorite 'horseshoe bend' although we have quite a few of these outstanding sights/sites.
The river even visits Yuma, one of the hottest and driest places in the country. (Picture included for logistics rather than artistic value.)

Lake Powell, a truly wonderful position as sunset closes in on the lake while Jen walks the ridge.
Parker Dam on the border of California and Arizona.
Fooling around on the boulders at Glen Canyon Dam, Page.
A remote trail we found, Mesa Back, Utah, as the river continually attempts to avoid us and mostly, succeeds. It goes through places, as it is said, "Where no man has been."
Jen goes hopping on Fortification Mountain with stunning views of Lake Mead. Jumping about in Arizona with the view across the lake into Nevada.
From the peak of Hamblin, Nevada, we view the extended Lake Mead.
Hot Springs, alongside the river.
Dusk at Lake Powell.
Another approach to Lake Powell, free climb up-and-down.  

The river visits Utah and reflects on what it sees.

Love this horseshoe bend, too...on outskirts of Page, Arizona.
Off to the races below. 

 Cheers 

 Jenni and Jeffrey

...to be continued...