IN BRIGHT ANGEL LODGE

Thirteen miles we hiked achieving five
Thousand vertical feet, from predawn dusk
At the mule corral, along the brown and rushing
River, until with the rising sun we arrive

At Pine Creek. From Indian Gardens we sauntered
Out to the view, then hoisted again the heavy
Packs and proceeded to slog uphill the Devil’s
Corkscrew, slithering, sliding the hundred

Hairpins in muddy sloughs and snowy scarps.
Brahma and Zoroaster loftily bless
As with gasping lungs we top the precipice,
And soon we’re showered and comfortably collapsed,

With the soles of fervent obedient feet effervescent,
Bubbling in giddy champagne exuberance.

(86, B.A.L, 3/3/93)

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View some pictures here.

[John Alvord 1/2/2026]