Navigating Grand Canyon: Stories of Survival and Discovery
Have you ever been lost in Grand Canyon?
No, but I can understand the story of a Scotsman dropping a dime down a gopher hole and deciding to retrieve it. Scottish folk are often known for their resourcefulness and determination, and their ability to get or make money has led to some great outcomes. We couldn't be more grateful for their contributions!
Lost on the Lava Falls Route and the Colorado River
One of my own experiences may not be as dramatic as retrieving a dime, but it certainly tested my navigational skills. I hiked to the bottom of the Lava Falls route, then explored the shore of the Colorado River for a bit. Later, when I decided to return to the top, I found myself completely disoriented.
The actual route is marked with cairns, which are stone piles commonly used as markers. However, over the years, river rafters had placed numerous additional cairns, likely for their nighttime excursions. This left me with a confusing array of cairns to choose from, making it impossible to recall which path led directly to the rim.
I spent two days wandering through dead ends before finally deciding to give up. It might sound like a dire situation, but it turned out to be an adventure worth the price. I hitched a ride on a river raft, taking me to Whitmore Wash. After a brief negotiation, a helicopter pilot agreed to fly me back to my truck at an upstream location, costing me a modest 300 dollars but definitely a price worth paying for the experience.
One of the Greatest Nights of My Adventuring Life
No, I haven't been lost in the Grand Canyon, but I did find myself navigating the vast landscape of the Everglades once. It turns out to be one of the most remarkable and thrilling experiences of my adventurous life.
Getting lost can be a harrowing experience, but in the Everglades, it was truly an adventure. The natural beauty, the sense of being part of something greater than myself, and the thrill of perseverance in challenging conditions all combined to create an experience that is etched in my memory.
The Everglades, with its unique ecosystem and vast expanse, is a true wilderness paradise. Being lost within it, while presenting challenges, also opens up the door to unforgettable stories and personal triumphs. The lesson from both Grand Canyon and the Everglades is that navigating the unknown can be both daunting and rewarding.