In summer the temperature runs up to as high as 120 degrees Fahr., and I have even heard it asserted to go to 125 degrees in the shade; and I cannot doubt it, as even on our own ranch the thermometer often recorded 110 degrees; that at an elevation of 4000 feet, whereas the Needles' elevation above sea-level is only a few hundreds.

At Jacobabad, India, the greatest heat recorded is 126 degrees, and at Kashan, in Persia, a month--August--averaged 127 degrees, supposed to be the hottest place on earth.
Above the Needles begins or ends the very wonderful Grand Canon, extending north for 270 miles, its depth in places being as much as 6000 feet, and that at certain points almost precipitously.

The wonderful colouring of the rocks, combined with the overpowering grandeur of it, make it one of the most impressive and unique sights of the world.
Now, stop and think what that is--2000 yards! say a mile; and imagine the effect on a stranger when he first approaches it, which he will generally do without warning--nothing, absolutely nothing, to indicate the presence of this wonderful gorge till he arrives at its very brink.
Its aspect is always changing according to the hour of day, the period of the year, the atmospheric conditions.

The air is dry and bracing at all times; and as pure, clear and free from dust or germs as probably can be found anywhere on earth.

The panorama may be described as "_wunderschoen_." Anyone of sensibility will sit on the rock-rim for hours, possibly days, in dumb contemplation of the beauty and immensity.
No one has yet, not even the most eloquent writer, been quite able to express his feelings and sentiments, though many have attempted to do so in the hotel register; some of the greatest poets and thinkers admitting in a few lines their utter inability.