Top: Another view of the upper canyon, and at the bottom, the wide pool in First Meadow, right before Slough Creek takes the plunge through the canyon below. I was sitting at this point a few years ago, enjoying the late autumn warmth and watching an eagle circle the rocky cliffs on the west side of the Creek. As I lazily watched the circling eagle, I noticed a slight movement on the right side of the lower rocky bench on the other side of the stream. A moment later, a beautiful golden Griz popped up for just an instant, calmly staring at me staring back at it. Then, as quickly as it appeared, it vanished from sight. Though I continued to watch for another hour or so, I never saw it again. That seems to be typical of most of the bear encounters that I've had over the years. Considering their size, it's amazing how quickly and quietly a Griz can vanish from sight.