Grand Canyon Day 3, Part 1: Grand Canyon Railway

7:00 a.m. Up and at 'em with an alarm clock; tagged baggage is due to the lobby by 9:00, with train departure to the canyon at 10:00. Free buffet breakfast is right there at Max & Thelma's restaurant after our leisurely morning shower and baggage drop-off. We dressed "contingently," because cautions abound regarding temperature fluctuations at the south rim. With the forecast sunny and capped at sixty degrees, we wore sweatshirts, and tied a jacket around the waist -- eventually the jackets did have to come on.





10:00 What a cool experience on the Grand Canyon Railway! Our coach car seating resembled a school bus, but it included an attendant/tour guide named Lou, and old-timer from Tennessee who tops any bus driver you've ever seen. The 65 mile ride averages about 30 mph and takes a couple of hours, but it passes quickly. Awaiting us on the seats were a nespaper describing the history of the canyon's railway, settlement, and tourist attractions. A complimentary travel guide book spells out tours, food options, and other conveniences. Lou's a downright crack-up, but he also gave some valuable information about our upcoming "Freedom Tour" bus ride, including the best times to sneak away to the restroom and to eat our box lunch (which for us will be 4:00).

Note: Due to scarcity of water, there are relatively few restrooms available there!