We are standing on the old Navajo Bridge that crosses the Colorado River, looking out over not only the water but into the background. Back against those cliffs is our afternoon destination and a very important place; it is where the Grand Canyon National Park begins.

Caroline is standing in the Colorado River at Lees Ferry, where in 124 days, the two of us will board a dory for our 18-day paddle trip through the Grand Canyon. Not a day goes by that we don’t think of this upcoming adventure. We have read “There’s This River… Grand Canyon Boatman Stories,” a great bunch of stories from some of the adventurers who have guided many a boat through the canyon. “The Hidden Canyon” by John Blaustein and Edward Abbey features great photography and a classic Abbey account of his lusty relationship with women and nature. “Down Canyon” by Ann Haymond Zwinger writes a breathy view of the canyon from the perspective of a naturalist. “A Field Guide to the Grand Canyon” to learn more about the plants and animals. I recently picked up a new book titled “Day Hikes From The River” so we can better know details of some of the hikes we’ll be taking over the 18 days in the canyon.

Caroline and I are trying to have our senses tuned to the complexity and grandeur that will greet us on this once-in-a-lifetime journey. To say we are excited and horribly nervous all at the same time would be an understatement. Tomorrow, we are going to the north rim of the Grand Canyon for a weekend of hiking. Tonight, we are staying here at Cliff Dwellers Lodge in Marble Canyon, Arizona.