From a Filled Crack to an Empty Crack

So today I allowed us to sleep in a little bit, so we were up by 7:30 AM and took our time getting everything together. The plan for the day was to get out on the water of Lake Powell and then stop by Caitlyn's resort before heading to Grand Canyon. We got to the marina around 8:30 AM, and it was packed. We had to wait in line for ~35 minutes to be told it would cost $500 to rent a boat, $380 each for jet skis, and $46 for kayaks. Given our budget this was an easy choice. We got our sit-on-top kayaks (which are probably the least efficient boat to paddle in) and headed out onto the lake. Now I know kayaking is a workout, but damn, this was ~5 miles and it was tough. We got out onto a couple beaches and took a swim and did some desert exploration, but in the end, we barely touched what Lake Powell had to offer. JJ and I decided that we would be back to rent a house-boat with some jet skis for a week. Anyone interested, please let one of us know.

We then headed back into the marina after 3 hours of swimming, hiking, and paddling. A pretty awesome start to the day. We were a little behind schedule, but I still wanted to say goodbye to Caitlyn. We couldn't get a hold of her and were ready to leave, but just as we stopped to take one more picture of the lake, we got a response. We Three Bums were off to one of the most exclusive resorts in the US. Currently, the Prince and Princess of Switzerland were staying there. We had no business being there, but we were going to be.

The whole idea of the resort is to blend in to the surrounding environment. Having to drive 4 miles off the highway into the middle of a desert canyon is a good way to start. Once we got there, I was immediately impressed. People pay between $1000-$3500/night to stay here, and I now see what that gets you. A party of guest services employees comes down to meet you when you arrive. Now Caitlyn gave us a tour of the resort and we actually got to enjoy the steam room and the cold plunge pool. My motto of life for a while was "just take the plunge," so a cold plunge pool was right up my alley. You were supposed to sit in the steam room for a while then jump into a pool that is 50 degrees. Needless to say, it was a rush and made you feel alive while you skin burns like crazy. JJ was skeptical, but then a huge believer after his first plunge. We then soaked it all it for a little bit longer, then got some free pizzas. Caitlyn, THANK YOU!! We needed that. It was then time for the Grand Canyon.

This was now getting back into familiar territory from the first road trip. We made it in time to enjoy another awesome sunset from the North Rim. Nick and JJ were both very impressed and I was still in awe even though this was my 3rd time seeing it. We then headed to our campsite which was awesome and about 100 ft from the rim. We set up camp and then had a smorgasbord of dehydrated food. We then had a campfire going, but took a walk over to the rim and checked out the stars, which I think were better than at Lake Powell. Can't believe how many stars there actually are out there. After that it was time for bed before heading into the Canyon tomorrow. ULTRA day 10/39: COMPLETE

JM