Rattlesnake

While taking a stroll around my campsite, taking some pictures as the light faded. I meet this rattlesnake right in the middle of the trail, he was catching the last bit of heat before heading to his den. I got about 8 feet from him and he started shaking his tail, good thing he did because I didn't even see him. He was coiled and ready to strike.

rattlesnake slinking away. (I'm 20 feet away)

The adrenaline rush is not something that I would care to repeat. Later in my tent I contemplated the situation... If I got bite, I'm 2 hr. on a dirt road then another 2 1/2 to a hospital or 2 hr. to the nearest ranger station not sure if they would have anti-venom. Well, glad I didn't find out, and got some shots of Anthropomorphic Barrier style Indian rock art.

ghost with attendants - The great gallery at horseshoe canyon

Horseshoe Canyon contains some of the most significant rock art in North America. The Great Gallery, the best known panel in Horseshoe Canyon, includes well-preserved, life-sized figures with intricate designs.
http://www.nps.gov/cany/planyourvisit/horseshoecanyon.htm