Spirit, my trusty Great Pyrenees, and Mr. Augustus, my loyal Siberian Husky, are always eager to explore the natural wonders of the Grand Canyon and surrounding areas. Whether we’re trekking along the rim trails or exploring trails in Northern Arizona, we always encounter amazing wildlife.
One memorable morning, as we were hiking along the South Rim, we rounded a bend and came face to face with a herd of bighorn sheep grazing near the edge of a sheer cliff. The morning sun cast long shadows across the landscape, highlighting the rugged beauty of the canyon walls. Spirit stood perfectly still, his ears perked and his eyes wide with curiosity, as he observed these majestic creatures. Mr. Augustus, ever the adventurer, wagged his tail excitedly but, with a gentle reminder, kept a respectful distance. We watched in awe as the sheep gracefully navigated the rocky terrain, their powerful horns glinting in the morning sun. The air was still, and the only sound was the occasional clinking of hooves against the rocks. It was a moment of pure magic, a reminder of the wild beauty that exists in this incredible place.
On another occasion, while exploring a secluded side canyon, we were treated to an aerial display by a red-tailed hawk. It soared effortlessly above us, its keen eyes scanning the ground for prey. The sunlight caught its feathers, creating a mesmerizing dance of light and shadow. Spirit, with his keen senses, noticed the hawk’s presence long before we did and alerted us with a gentle whinny. We watched as the hawk circled above, its wingspan a testament to its mastery of the skies. It was a reminder of the interconnectedness of all living things in this vast ecosystem.
These encounters with wildlife are a constant reminder of the incredible biodiversity that exists within the Grand Canyon. It’s a privilege to share this space with these amazing creatures and to witness their natural behaviors.
Special note: While pets are never allowed below the rim of Grand Canyon, service animals are permitted if they are assisting their humans who have disabilities. It is highly recommended for the safety of your service dog that you check in with the Backcountry Information Center to learn how you can mitigate specific hazards posed by hiking on the park’s Corridor Trails. (Bright Angel, South Kaibab and North Kaibab Trails).
