I hope you brought your hiking boots because this week Pegman takes us to the Grand Canyon in Arizona, United States. The Grand Canyon is one of the seven natural wonders of the world, and wonder of wonders you can actually hike into the canyon via streetview. There are also photo spheres across various locations.

The virtual hikes aren’t immediately obvious on google maps, but when you zoom in, you can hike Bright Angel Trail, South Kaibab Trail, Grandview Trail, or even visit the Phantom Ranch

Your mission is to write up to 150 words inspired by the location. Once your piece is polished, share it with others using the link up below. Reading and commenting on others’ work is part of the fun!

Thank you, Karen Rawson, for hosting this weekly challenge.  Glad I could participate this week.

Speechless

The trek to the top of Grandview Point was breathtaking — as in both were gasping for breath when they arrived.

They found a ledge for a bench and Paul immediately plopped down, elbows on knees, head in hands, trying to bring his heartbeat down to a reasonable rhythm.

“You’d be better off standing and walking slowly, Paul,” Nicole chastised, as she practiced what she preached, taking deep breaths, regaining control.

Oblivious to Paul’s struggles, she rhapsodized:  “Oh my gosh! Isn’t this just amazing?  The view!  It was so worth that workout, eh Paul?  C’m’ere!  Get up!  What the hell are you doing?”

Paul sat on his ledge, eyes unfocussed, mouth frozen.  Inside his head, his words were loud and clear: “I can’t speak! Help me, Nicole.  Look at me!”  All she could hear were guttural mutterings.

“Jesus!  Are you having a stroke?”  Trying not to panic, she looked around helplessly.