Araviapa revisited...

So, yes, we did take the kids to backpack Araviapa back in June, but I didn't get to see the whole thing end to end. And, my friend Ann wanted to see the whole thing as well. She tried to plan a trip where a bunch of us would go and meet in the middle and exchange keys so there wouldn't be a ton of driving involved, but that didn't work out. What did work out was us being driven to the east trailhead (150 mi away) and dropped off and us hiking through the 11 miles and then picked up at the west trailhead (70 miles from home). Weird how it's only 11 miles on foot by 225 mi by road! Good thing Rik is such a nice guy to spend his Sat dring us around or I'm not sure how it would have all worked out. I really owe him! 450miles of owing him!
Anyway, it was a BEAUTIFUL day for a hike. It was a touch cool when we started (but not as cool as the girl wearing the mittens nearby would have you believe!), but once the sun came up over teh canyon walls it was PERFECT. I was worried that all of that walking through the water in November would be a problem, but the water wasn't cold at all either. If you get a chance, you should go back and look at photos of my trip in June and compare it to the trip yesterday. The differences in the seasons were really cool to note - there were actually fall colors involved! Of course, I had to give you the beginning photo - we look ready - and the ending one a few hours later - we're just a little more wet (note my pants!) and tired. It was totally worth it though - wet shoes and sock and all! I can't wait to plan another adventure. :)

So,