Grand Canyon hike October 2010

This hike has been a goal of mine all year. Aaron has hiked the Grand Canyon every year for the past 5 years and I wanted to join him. We were going to hike from the south to the north (rim-to-rim) but our ride to get back to the south side fell through so we had to adjust our plan. (I need more prep for that hike) We started on the South Kaibab trail, hiked down to the bottom and over to Phantom Ranch and then back up Bright Angel trail. The hike was 17 miles and it took us almost 11 hours to complete. It was fun and exhausting and I can't wait to do it again. I loved hiking it with Aaron.

South Rim

the little mules. They're cute and all until you have to dodge their poop and pee puddles all the way up the trail...
The metal bridge. This was the worst part of the hike for me...

I would have been fine if I couldn't see down to the river and the grates weren't clanking around...that was just too much for me. But...I crossed it :)
Phantom Ranch. This is bottom of the canyon.
At Phantom Ranch, they have a little tiny house where you can eat and buy a few things. They also have cabins that you can stay in. Everything has to be brought down by mules, that's why it's so expensive. We bought a postcard for the kids and the mules carry them up in that leather satchel.
Aaron on the other bridge. I liked this bridge, it had a solid bottom.

switchbacks going down the South Kaibab.

This was at the beginning of the hike. I wish I had a video of this picture. The way the clouds were moving and sun would peek through at different times...it was beautiful...
This is at the top of Bright Angel. The group of trees is called Indian Gardens. We were thankful for the clouds and cool weather that day.

Thanks A! Love you