Chapter 1 "Geologic Time Includes Now" Summary and Analysis

The chapter begins with a quote from Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey. Ralston will soon scratch the phrase on the canyon wall. Ralston recounts the beginning of his solo trip into Blue John Canyon.

The trip begins on Saturday, April 26, 2003. Ralston ventures through Emery County on his mountain bike, having left his truck in a parking lot more than an hour ago. He heads for Horseshoe Canyon. On his back is a heavier-than-normal pack filled with canyoneering equipment, rappelling gear, a multi-tool, a gallon of water, five chocolate bars, two burritos, and a chocolate muffin. The supplies are enough to get him through the day. Also in the pack are a headlamp, headphones, a CD player and CDs, batteries, a digital camera, and a digital video camcorder.

After reaching Burr Pass...