Just getting to Tuweep, or Toroweap, (which means dry valley in Paiute) proved to be a major part of the adventure.
After an hour and a half drive on pavement we hit one of the three gravel roads to Tuweep called the Sunshine Route. 61 miles (98 km) of washboard and dust.
This “route” took us through Antelope Valley.
Past Mt Trumbull…
…which has erupted about a dozen times causing lava to flow across the land and into the canyon.
Then we drove into Tuweep Valley.
Where there is evidence of ranches.
Seems like we’d never get to the canyon.
Finally, we approached the boundary into Grand Canyon National Park.
Where the Tuweep Ranger station is located.
The road deteriorates along the last six miles of slick rock as the scenery just gets better.
Guess this old road grater hasn’t been in operation in many years.
We could finally see Tuweep Point.
And after five hours arrived at the turn off for the Tuweep campground. More coming.
12 comments:
Lovely post and great photos of amazing scenery. When was the last eruption? Those roads remind me a bit of what we used to drive on in what was then Rhodesia in the early 1950's :-) Diane
Oh what a lovely journey, Gaelyn. And what beautiful scenery. I've never been near to a volcano mountain. Have a great day. (((Hugs))) Jo
You big teaser! Where's the good stuff?
Spectaular! That sky is amazing. You're such a tease you know!
- Jazz
"Sunshine Road"? Seems like someone was joking. :)But it is beautiful and worth the awful road getting there.
What an amazing adventure! That is a long drive on a dirt road! It looks like you went through some beautiful areas though. I look forward to more pictures!
I love this post, and the 'metropolitan area' sign is great...
I have to say in all my travels I've never seen anything described on a road sign as "primitive." Love it!
Wow, these are the best photos I have seen of the trip out there. Most people only ever post the end with that fabulous view. SOmeday....
What an adventure. You have to be prepared and have a dependable vehicle and extra batteries for your camera.
It's a long trek in there. Your photos bring back memories.
*Gasp* What a mission to get there. But looking at the sights you had there it was well worth the journey.
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