South Rim, to Flagstaff & Page, AZ

The goal was to drive to Page, Az for a day, and rent a boat on Lake Powell. Driving from the South Rim to Page puts you in the middle of the North and South Rims of the Grand Canyon. The North Rim had a significant brush fire, so visiting the park was not an option.

Our detour to Flagstaff was an excuse to have a decent (and much needed) brunch. We found the Toasted Owl that had a superb brunch and made a spot-on Bloody Mary. Continuing with the 3 1/2 hour drive, you'll see many Native American roadside stands offering all kinds of trinkets. Due to the pandemic, none of the stands were open, nor were the Navajo lands.

Signs for Gun Ranges appeared, and my buddy insisted we visit one to shoot military-grade weapons. I want to be clear I'm not a gun guy, but I have to admit if Apple built a gun range, it would look like Gunfighter Canyon. Operated by former Marines, these guys provide you a safe and clean place to shoot. They had a surprisingly open view regarding gun control and discussed the pros and cons of the second amendment saying that some form of reform is needed in this country. It was both frightening and exhilarating shooting several automatic weapons but none more so that the Desert Eagle which sounded like a canon. (I'm not joking even with headphones it was eardrum piercingly loud).

Finishing with our gun experience, we rushed over to Horse Shoe Bend. A 20-minute walk to the cliff rewards you with one of the most celebrated views of any park in the country. I suggest visiting close to sunset as the array of colors is astounding—yet another treasured memory. 

Lodging: La Quinta by Wyndham, a modern and spacious hotel, perfect for a jumping-off point.

Dining: There were not too many places to choose from other than an array of fast food but we took a suggestion from the gun guys and ate at Sunset 89, a Polynesian fusion restaurant ( I'm not making this up). The wings and drinks were pretty good, and their take on Korean fried chicken was excellent. Portions were massive!