If you do the Clear Lake or Ribbon Lake loop counterclockwise, you emerge from the backcountry at a stretch of "wild" Canyon Rim. The trail goes along the rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, without handrails, signs, or other signs of civilization - - it's easy to imagine what it must have looked like to the Hayden Expedition (and those undocumented trappers and Native Americans before them).

Across the Canyon is Inspiration Point, a drive-up location.

Same view, different experience.

June 2009.