Nancy Eisenstein
The SaddleBrooke Ranch National Parks Club’s trip to the Grand Canyon was a huge success! Fifty-three people from the Ranch met at Williams, Ariz., on Oct. 2 for a delicious buffet dinner at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel. The next morning, The Cataract Creek Gang and the Marshall squared off at the Williams Depot. Luckily the Marshall kept everyone safe so we could board the scenic train to the south rim. As the train changed terrains from high desert to prairie to ponderosa pine, we were treated to a trip back in time with a cowboy singalong, cows on the tracks, and a passenger service attendant who shared area facts and made delicious drinks for thirsty passengers.
We arrived and were taken on a narrated motor coach tour of the park and a delicious lunch. We stopped to view the overlooks, the geology museum, and the gift shops. Those who ventured out after dark were treated to beautiful views of the Milky Way and billions of stars. The Grand Canyon is an International Dark Sky Park. After spending a quiet night at Maswik Lodge some of us took a tour of the Kolb Studio, the restored photography studio and home of the Kolb brothers at the edge of the Canyon. Afterward, there was time to check out more scenic overlooks, hike, and enjoy the pleasant weather.
We boarded the train back to Williams and were once again entertained by a cowboy guitarist singalong. Looking out the windows we saw cowboys riding up on horseback and coming through the train cars to rob us! They sure knew how to keep us entertained. We stayed overnight at Williams and either drove back to the Ranch or continued on to other area sites. It was an unforgettable trip that brought smiles to all our faces and memories to savor!