Visiting the north rim, I came with hope of matching the full moon with undoubtably the most impressive canyon in the western U.S. With rain most of the evening, my frustration mixed with anticipation of what could be if only the clouds opened to the low angle light of the setting sun. As I was about to give up, this incredible scene unfolded behind me. Thank goodness I turned around just in time.

The North Rim of the Black Canyon is a bit out of the way but for those that make the extra effort you will be rewarded with a National Park that has not seen the crowds that frankly love our national park system to death. The rim road is well graded gravel and visits some of the most breath taking overlooks in the western United States. Take the time to make the short hike to Exclamation Point.