Leaving Nankoweap

Nankoweap Camp unfolded on a broad, inviting stretch of beach with sweeping views both up and down the canyon. As we eased the dory onto the shore, the expansive sandbar gave us plenty of space to spread out and settle in, with the towering cliffs of Nankoweap Canyon standing sentinel just upstream. The afternoon light poured down the wide corridor, lighting up the crimson and cream layers of rock and casting sharp shadows along the cliff faces. A gentle breeze stirred across the camp, carrying the faint scent of sage and warming sand. Behind us, a trail wound its way up the steep slope toward the ancient granaries perched high in the cliff, their stone walls still standing after centuries of watch over the river below. After setting up camp, we wandered through the open expanse, feet sinking softly into the cool sand, with the wide bend of the Colorado shimmering nearby. As evening fell, the canyon walls caught deep amber and rose hues, and the broad openness of Nankoweap gave us an unbroken view of the stars as they emerged one by one. It was a place that carried both history and quiet grandeur, making it one of the most memorable camps of the journey.