I should have taken photos of some of the "wow" trail going UP to the top, especially towards the end but I did not.  I guess I was panting and sweating too much!  LOL   I could see a couple on top taking pictures with big smiles and I did turn around a few times to savor the view of the canyon walls I'd just come through and knew I needed to brave the increasing heat and kept telling myself, "It is all downhill going back."

I was thrilled to see some flowers up on top with drops left yet from the morning rains.  I was also very happy we had clouds in the sky - not just for the cooler temps but they definitely added a nice touch to the scenery photos.

Pretty incredible huh?!    I will say while on the trail (ALWAYS stay on the trail) I did hear one rattlesnake on the hillside but I just thanked him for the warning, didn't see him but kept my eyes focused on where I was walking while walking.   Funny that I did see a small little sign on the way down the plateau that said be aware of snakes and stay on the trail.

Tomorrow - "It's all downhill going back......"