Golden Pond

— When we went rafting in the Rio Grande in Santa Elena Canyon (Big Bend NP), we spent a day exploring the sites along the river. After our lunch break, it was time to do a little hike in an area not easily accessible to hikers. Besides scrambling on hands and knees, we also had to go through a small hole known as the “Birth Canal.” It had that peculiar name because it was narrow and with water running through it. So, we had to get wet going through it — twice! However, on the other side of the Birth Canal, we came up views such as the photo here. The power of water that comes down these narrow canyons is quite impressive. This one caught my eyes because of the beautiful golden color and the heart-shaped formation near the pond. It was truly magical to stop and appreciate nature’s beauty.