I've gotta find someplace where it's not raining, I thought, studying the weather maps. Sedona appeared to be storm free, so off I went. Along the way, I decided on the Sterling Pass Trail.

The sky was humid, overcast, but rain free as I started up the Sterling Pass Trail late in the afternoon. A healthy climb took me over the pass and into beautiful Sterling Canyon. The frantic snapping of branches alerted me to the fleeting presence of a small black bear, who bounded off into thicker cover a few hundred feet ahead, as I approached the turnoff for Vultee Arch.

Vultee Arch was my destination, where I took a break atop its narrow sandstone span, enjoying the surrounding red rock cliffs. With the day growing late, I soon began my return trip to Oak Creek Canyon.

The weather remained cooperative until I reached my truck at dusk, when light showers rolled in. Being early for a night owl like myself, I headed north to Flagstaff to pick up some dinner and a cd at Haistings. Hooray for a 24 hour Subway!

The drive home on highway 89A was exciting as always. Wild thunderstorms were parked over top of Jerome and Prescott, and I felt obliged to stop frequently to enjoy the sights and shoot photos. I finally arrived home around 1:30 am, knowing I would feel like garbage at work in only a few hours. But it was worth it. Another great adventure!