Have been shooting with a really Right Stuff for 3 yrs, great head, very solid, no problems.
Great shot very impressive in download, yes should make a great print.
24-70 2.4 great lens very sharp U can't go wrong
All great shots, Owl might be better if sky could be darkened to set off bird. Will done.
U will have a great time, I sug. that U photo the lower canyon, take one body and only one or two lenses, tripod, cable release in a small back pack. Pack up gear when moving from photo site to photo site, turn body camera downward when changing lenses and U should have no dust problems. U will climbing up and down steal ladders so would advise rubber soled hiking shoes. Move slowly from site to site looking up and behind as U move If U want sunbeam shots U need to go around noon. U purchase tickets as a photographer for 2 hrs. Can be some what expensive. Alain Broit has a workshop on the area once a year "beautiful-landscape.com" recommend it first time in area.
Student today are so knowledgeable about computers I would recommend to subscription to bridge and Photoshop for $10. a month great buy and he will grow into programs.