Beginner Grand Canyon Hiker Question

freesp19 · Post by **freesp19** » Oct 13 2002 6:39 pm

Hi....I'm fairly new to this forum, but it has really given some great tips on different subjects. My friends and I are hiking down S. Kaibab next Monday, staying at Phantom Ranch, then hiking up Bright Angel on Tuesday. I know that these trails are heavily traveled, however, I have a question regarding a possible unexpected thunderstorm. Any tips on how to stay out of harm's way of getting swept away if it rains really hard? Or, on these trails, is that not possible. Sorry to sound naive, but I'm a novice on these trails and I'll be bringing friends with me that have never been to the Canyon at all! Any help, tips, or suggestions, would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks for your patience!

Valerie

evenstarx3 · Post by **evenstarx3** » Oct 13 2002 7:19 pm

Think these trails are pretty safe, even in heavy rain. and the thunderstorms usually hit in the afternoon or evening and I expect you'll be doing your hiking, both in and out, in the morning. I really wouldn't be too concerned. Check weather for the canyon here before you leave:
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/US ... prefs=&y=9

MaryPhyl · Post by **MaryPhyl** » Oct 13 2002 7:24 pm

Hi Valerie-- There is no problem on either of those trails with rain water. I don't think we are expecting rain anyway. Relax on the way down or you will hurt your knees--just try to walk as much like you normally do as you can. Be sure your toenails are cut as short as you can get them. When you put your shoes on have your foot way back in the shoe and then lace up so your toes don't hit the end of your shoe with every step. You will love Phantom Ranch--let us know how it goes. Mary

Sredfield · Post by **Sredfield** » Oct 13 2002 7:53 pm

I'll offer my $.02. Reverse your route, the Bright Angel Trail doesn't end, it just keeps going and going and going. The South Kaibab on the other hand, does finish a bit unexpectedly.

MaryPhyl · Post by **MaryPhyl** » Oct 13 2002 8:01 pm

Sredfield wrote:I'll offer my $.02. Reverse your route, the Bright Angel Trail doesn't end, it just keeps going and going and going. The South Kaibab on the other hand, does finish a bit unexpectedly.

I agree.

freesp19 · Post by **freesp19** » Oct 13 2002 8:38 pm

Thank you all for your replies, I GREATLY appreciate it! I had been advised to Kaibab down, because of the lack of shade and how steep it is, plus, no water stops. I'll give it a try this time around. I hope to do this hike several more times, in a variation of ways.

Wish me luck on my first try! Thanks again!

V