Our hike up the pediment surface to the base of the section took about two hours.  Unlike yesterday, the rocks were perfect for drilling.  Rich measured the section; Matt drilled while Brian took sedimentological data.  We made steady progress upsection (downstream) through the canyon.  I slid down the dry waterfalls on my ass, tearing a large gash in my right pants leg.  Our objective was to get past the falls so we wouldn’t have to climb them again.  We succeeded but not until 6:45.  That meant a 3+ km walk out in the dark.  Fortunately, there was a fingernail moon directly overhead and most of the streambed was covered with salt or ice so visibility was surprisingly good.  Although I was angry at the situation at first, my anger soon subsided and we made it out in a little over an hour.  It seemed much longer than that. As we approached the vehicle Pedro kept the high beams shining in our eyes. He finally realized that it was a hindrance and turned them off.

Pedro was extremely worried about us and was about to go get help when we showed up.  Adriana also was worried and was very glad to see us upon our return to the school.

Rich and Pedro cooked a fine dinner, then Rich and I exchanged data.  I turned it about 10:15 and was soon asleep.