Grand Canyon

My how time can fly!

Since my last post , we have conquered the Grand Canyon! It was probably one of the hardest thing I have ever done in my life, and one of the most amazing experiences as well. The temps were breaking 100 as we backpacked down. At the bottom an oasis greeted us along the Colorado river. However, the heat did not subside. Most of our free time was spent sitting in Bright Angel creek staying cool, or in the canteen sipping lemonade. There were air conditioned cabins (which we did not have), flush toilets, and running water. This trip was quite different than any other backpack trip I've ever been on. The deer did not mind you, and would graze mere feet from your presence. Meanwhile lizards would stare at you and do push-ups, challenging the viewer to a macho man contest. Most of the other visitors were nice, and the staff was great at Phantom Ranch. The hike back out, 11 miles and over a vertical mile in elevation, took 10 grueling hours. At times I wanted to leave my pack where I sat. If the heat had not been so harsh, I believe the hike would have been much more enjoyable. The views, streams, and mini waterfalls helped create a distraction from the never ending sunshine. At the end I was victorious. Despite the heat, the aching calves, and sun burnt shoulders, I do it all again in a heart beat. Only next time in March or November, not May!