The Pink Jeep Rides Again – July 7, 2018

Back in the 1980’s, Jim and I were both in Sedona at different times and we each took the Pink Jeep tour while here.  I believe when they say, “you can’t go home again” they mean nothing stays the same so don’t try to relive the past.  We learned that lesson again in Sedona.  Oh how it has grown!  In 1988, the original owner of the Pink Jeep Tour company sold to the current owner and it has expanded into a major tourism giant expanding into other areas including Grand Canyon.

View of rock formations from Downtown Sedona

Back when we took our jeep rides, they were smaller, no roof, open jeeps that went into the desert and explored the rock formations and vegetation in what could only be described at a “roller coaster” adventure.  The Pink Jeep tour of today takes you into the mountains using the old logging road of the 1930’s (which is no longer paved or smooth) giving you the sights and commentary of the formations and vegetation along the way.  Not better or worse, just different.  Plus, at $100,000 each, the jeeps are bigger and probably safer.

We saw the various rock formations:  Snoopy, cow patties, kissing rock, board room, etc.

Dried up river bed in canyon

Old wagon trail from 1800’s used to go over mountains

Kissing rocks 

 View from top of mountain we climbed  approximately 7000 feet

Our guide was particularly fascinated with the agave plant and the idea that if a cowboy fell off his horse onto the plant, he would be seriously hurt.

Agave Plant

On our way out of town, we stopped at the Chapel of the Holy Cross built in 1957 right into the red rocks.

The cross seems to jet out from the rock and almost looks like the chapel was an afterthought.  When we arrived, we grabbed the first parking spot we saw, only to realize that meant we would be hiking to the top where the Chapel entrance was located.  Not our first or last mistake of this trip, I’m sure.

We departed Sedona and headed to Grand Canyon driving through some much needed rain.  We checked into our hotel and headed for the Park since it was only 4pm.  Since we have a National Park Seniors Pass, we can get into all National parks without a fee so, why not.  Actually, we are having trouble getting our body clocks reset to this time zone.  We were wide awake at 4 am this morning!

The south rim of the Grand Canyon has also undergone some major changes since the 1980’s.  So much to do and the parks department has made it easier with free shuttle buses to all the major sights.  Anxious to get started, we walked to Mather and Yavapai Points before we realized we were outwalking our energy level.

Mather point – South Rim Grand Canyon

The walk back to our car was slow and deliberate especially after we noticed our Fitbits told us we had each walked over 25,000 steps and climbed over 177 flights of stairs.

Elk as we were exiting park

Dinner was just designed to provide sustenance so no pictures.  Sorry Fellow Foodies.  Between the bumpy jeep ride and the walking, this is definitely an Advil night.

Tomorrow:  Grand Canyon all day and 6 pm tour.