North Rim approach

Once on top of the 8000-plus-foot-high Kaibab National Forest, it's obvious that one has entered a different climate and ecosystem. Snow drifts flank the road, which is surrounded by green meadows and stands of pines and aspens. A week or two earlier the snow was everywhere. A touch of gloom can also be found in this climate. Gloom or not, the sight of the above sign brought a lot of joy.