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Day 1 – Orienteering lessons & a day of overlooks.

The Old Man and I spent a good chunk of yesterday trying to get out to President Harding Rapids overlook from the Cedar Ridge exit. To say that the maze cluster of dirt roads strewn about the Navajo Rez is FUBAR would be an understatement. We ended up camping too far north.

By late morning today though, we have gotten the hang of navigation in this country. The trick is a diligent combination of GPS consultation, map reading, and a steady dose of trial and error. Eventually we arrive at our intended destination.

The overlook above President Harding Rapids has a superb view of the stunning horseshoe formation carved out by The River. We watch with a jealous pinch as several River rats pass below us.

After lunch we make our way over to the head of Salt Trail Canyon on the north side of the Little Colorado River. This would be a good exit for a Tanner to Beamer trip if a pick-up or car shuttle was arranged. There are some old stone ruins nearby.

Now that we are further south there might be just enough daylight left to make a dash to the rim for a new vantage point. We quickly set up camp and then move out. Gaining more orienteering experience, and perhaps with a little touch of providence, we arrive at the overlook between Nankoweap and Kwagunt just in time for cocktails and sunset. The views up and down Canyon are spectacular.

Day 2 – Overlook of Little Colorado River Confluence.

We need to get back to Prescott today, but not before finding the overlook above the confluence with the Little Colorado River. There are several points across from Cape Solitude, but the best views of The Canyon and confluence are near directly across from 60-Mile Canyon. We soak up the scene for some time before departing home.