‘Goober’ Groupies

J.D. Crowe’s delightful article about the Grand Canyon (“Rim Shots,” July 3) offered a new perspective about a well-visited spot. The illustrations were wonderful and the article offered sound suggestions that are easy to accept (Goomerella’s new boots = a no-no). My 20-year-old son enjoyed it as much as I did. Send J.D. Crowe out in the field again.

CAROL GARDYNE, San Diego

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What a pleasant surprise “Rim Shots” was. Charming and funny, it was a welcome change from the standard photos and text and it engaged me immediately! Of course, being an artist, I have to say that there’s no substitute for the visual language of drawings and paintings.

MARGARET CHUSEMAN, San Diego

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J.D. Crowe left out another group, which we could call the “groaners”: Those hardy folk who ride downstairs on the backs of donkeys. I was a groaner some years ago (year forgotten--price $13.50), and I can tell you we were definitely a separate group.

When I mounted, my beast let out a protest that could probably be heard at the Phantom Ranch. We passed Goobers and Goomers at a slow but dizzy pace. Due to the downward slope of the trail, and the lack of shock absorbers on our mounts, there was considerable bouncing on the four-hour descent.

After a bag lunch at the river, we headed back top, some five hours away. The trip up was less bouncy, but, alas, too late for comfort. Oh, yes--the scenery was gorgeous.

CHAS. VANDERBILT, Simi Valley