Owing to the dip of the strata across the east and west trend of the canyon the walls on the north were steeper than those on the south, but they seldom rose vertically from the river.

Masses of talus, and often alluvial stretches with rocks and trees, were strung along their base, usually offering numerous excellent landings and camping places.

We were able to stop about as we wished and had no trouble as to camps, though they were frequently not just what we would have preferred.

There was always smooth sand to sleep on, and often plenty of willows to cut and lay in rows for a mattress.

It must not be imagined that these great canyons are dark and gloomy in the daytime.