The first day of our Grand Adventure!

It was trip that would span four days and about 37 miles of hiking down into, through and up out of the Grand Canyon.

Three Intrepid Souls (Mike, Jodi & me) descended the South Kaibab trail of the Grand Canyon, 7.1 miles down to Phantom Ranch. It was our first time on this trail: the views were absolutely stunning. Unlike the other main trail, Bright Angel, this trail went down the side of the canyon offering amazing scenics of the Grand Canyon. It was a steep, rough trail that was a grueling first day challenge. Adding to the fun were winds gusting up to (we found out later) 50-60MPH… at one point Jodi was doing one step sideways for every two steps forward (us heavier types were somewhat better grounded).  Leaving about 9:30am, we made it to Phantom Ranch mid-afternoon, tired and dirty (South Kaibab defines The Dusty Trail) but overwhelmed by where we were.

Getting ready to go (notice the jackets… it was about 45 degrees at the top).

On the trail, near the top

 

Hiking DOWN the trail takes on new meaning (notice the group hiking ahead of us at the lower left of the image for a sense of perspective)!

 

Taking a break… Mike photographing Jodi with a nice background.. the Canyon

 

Dead Tree scenic

While we were resting, a local inhabitant took great interest in our packs (looking for food, of course… every main stopping point had its critters)

 

Jodi & Mike hiking

 

One of many great rock formations

 

First view of the Colorado River… our destination for the first day

 

The Black Bridge, a mule/people suspension bridge (there are no roads or vehicles), that crosses the Colorado. Once across, Phantom Ranch is about 1/2 mile away… but first we have to get down there!

 

Looking down at Phantom Ranch (look carefully for the Brown building that is part of Phantom Ranch) & the Bright Angel Creek that feeds into the Colorado

 

View from our campsite… looking UP for a change!

 

Another local inhabitant. The Deer have no fear of people and come within feet of anyone while looking for something to nibble on.

 

Click HERE to go to Day 2: Phantom Ranch and around

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