Thanks Steve, Your assessment about the advisability of a trip to the North Rim for astronomical purposes is most accurate - I should have talked to you first! I was hoping to combine a nice little vacation that my wife would enjoy (visiting and hiking in the National Park and the surrounding areas during the day) with a little telescope time on the side. Janet is not really a camper so I must hunt up decent local accommodations to pull that type of a trip off. The Lodge in the National Park looked nice, they have cabins too, but when we inquired about a room they laughed and said you must reserve dates 1-2 years in advance - just about totally impractical. Star Hill Inn ($165-195 p/night) was just recommended by Bill Ferris and looks perfect for this idea and I must also get the July issue of Astronomy to read Tom's review. I also like your idea of trying our Rim or the White Mountains. Maybe someone can recommend a place to stay in either of those areas where I might find a dark spot nearby to observe for a few hours? I am also going to check southeast AZ. Sunglow Ranch has mixed reviews from what I have heard (depending on when they visited) and is pricey too (about $180 p/night for 2 people) and there must be other places down there somewhere. Any current info on this area would be appreciated. I wouldn't have to worry about this stuff if I could just talk Janet into moving to Sentinel :o) Regards Bill Wood -- See message header for info on list archives or unsubscribing, and please send personal replies to the author, not the list.