HikeArizona.COM

Looking for 3 experienced backpackers to join my son and me on a 7-day hike off the Grand Canyon's South Rim. You will not have to pay anything for the permit costs; and you will pay your own costs for your gear, food, vehicle entrance fee (if you drive your own), and first night hotel. You would be welcome to travel with us in our mini-van (it has room for 5 hikers and gear) to the South Rim. Here is our itinerary:

May 16 Drive to a South Rim hotel (probably Tusayan)
May 17 Hike 4:30 a.m. South Kaibab Trail approximately 7.5 miles to Bright Angel Campground (Phantom Ranch area)
May 18 Layover at Bright Angel Campground
May 19 Hike 5:30 a.m. approximately 4.5 miles to Indian Garden Campground
May 20 Hike 4:30 a.m. approximately 10.7 miles to Monument Creek
May 21 Layover at Monument Creek
May 22 Hike 5:30 a.m. approximately 4.0 miles to Hermit Creek
May 23 Hike out 4:30 a.m. approximately 7.5 miles to Hermit's Rest

My 19-year old son and I have a lot of multi-day Grand Canyon backpacking experience. I am a pretty slow hiker, as I have osteoarthritis that makes my knees and ankles pretty stiff and sore after a day's hike. I still have hiked 15+ multi-day Grand Canyon hikes with the condition, several on routes more difficult than this one. This trek will be warm, so that is why we plan to start hiking so early in the morning. However, the route is not that difficult. Water will be available at each campsite. Feel free to contact me here or at theophilus59@cox.net if you are interested.

Shawn L. Stanford, Ph.D.

Sounds like a great hike, Shawn. You probably already know this, but make sure on your layover at Monument that you head down to Granite Beach. That's my favorite place in the canyon!

Wish I didn't have such a booked up May, I'd jump on this one. But I'm afraid I just can't get away that long.

I agree - sounds like a great hike. I put in at Pipe Creek Beach on 5/19 for 9 days paddling down the River. If we see you, we'll offer you some grub. :bigth:

In response to writelots:
We definitely plan to visit the beach. Thanks for the reminder.

In response to Al_HikesAZ:
That's what I like to hear. I am sure your stockpile of food will be richer than ours, although we have improved our trail menu a lot over the years. Have a terrific river trip.