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Once we left the Royal Arch itself and headed back up-canyon we had a startling encounter with a group of hikers from the University of Arizona. They had started down the day after we did and so had been a day behind us up until now. It was actually a relief to face the upcoming rappel with some more experienced and confident climbers. We headed out to allow them to enjoy the Royal Arch area, figuring we would see each other again a few miles down the trail.
Arriving at the route heading down to the rappel, we realized that perhaps the toughest part was the narrow, exposed route leading to the 20 foot cliff itself, where ropes made the remainder of the drop feel much safer. 
Together with our new companions, we managed to descend to the next plateau above the river just as darkness was falling. We all decided to camp right there for the night. The University hiking group included an astronomy professor who treated us all to a tour of the stars and planets in the night time sky. It was interesting to share our space with other people after three days of isolation. We enjoyed the conversation and getting to know this group of mostly physics grad students- an interesting encounter!
The next day, we continued down to the river, set up camp for the night and then set out for a day hike (sans our heavy packs) to Elves Chasm- down river, requiring that we pick our way through the sharp rock of the inner gorge for a mile and a half. The UofA hikers were heading out to camp in the next canyon along the route, leaving us alone once more after our sidetrip.
Red Bud tree blooming in the canyon bottom
This little mushroom found a moist area to pop up in.
Elves Chasm was the enchanting oasis that we anticipated. 
This was the ultimate destination we were headed for all along. Arriving here on the 27th anniversary of our first date- St. Patricks Day- was a fitting celebration of all of the life-changing adventures we had weathered- and all those that remain to be experienced in the years ahead.
It is spring in this desert
Had to capture a picture of this "double barrelled cactus" - brought a smile
Hiking down the main canyon allowed for expansive views over the next days as we completed the loop.
In the Canyon, water can be "right there" but nearly impossible or dangerous to get to. Being aware of basic survival needs is an essential mindset.
Locating water over the hot days ahead became the challenge. We welcomed every hidden pool, although the runoff in some canyons was nearly too salty to drink. One night we boiled up a pot of very salty soup for dinner, saving and rationing the little bit of more palatable water . . . searching the next drainage for potholes or springs in vain. The final few miles along the Tonto, in the afternoon sun, after our last drops of non-salty water had been downed, was accompanied by the anticipation and tinge of concern that the next canyon may be dry.... which would require a longer hike to the Colorado River in search of water for the hike out of the Canyon the next day. Luckily, the frog-egg laden pond in Bass Canyon was ample for the frogs' and our use!
The hike out and the views looking back on familiar landmarks was bittersweet. Another fabulous adventure of a lifetime behind us.
Sunset on the Canyon is always the appropriate final chapter.
We look forward to sharing the beauty of the Grand Canyon with our grandchildren some day soon. There is nothing to compare!
Thanks for letting me share this adventure with you. It has been a fun excuse to relive this special, memorable week and escape the stress of recent reality. I should resize some of these photos, but they look ok right now- maybe later. Enjoy.
