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| Hiking | 48.47 Miles |
12,320 AEG |
| | Hiking | 48.47 Miles | 12 Hrs 39 Mns | | 3.83 mph |
| 12,320 ft AEG | | | | |
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| partners | | Back to the Grand Canyon for Rim to Rim with some luxury items. We were flexible and scored a last minute room at Phantom Ranch so we hiked down South Kaibab on Friday evening arriving about 9pm. Despite the late arrival we had a good nights sleep and had the 630am breakfast the next morning.
After breakfast about 730 we hiked up North Kaibab Trail with a full day in hand since we already had reservation on the North Rim for that night. With time on our side it was nice to enjoy the trail and have time for nice break at Ribbon Falls. Great spot to hang out and break up the hike. It was tough to leave the coolness of Ribbon Falls especially since things were starting to heat up.
Continued passing Cottonwood Camp and on to the Manzanita Pumphouse for the next break. Filled up on water and had some snacks for the final 5 miles to the North Rim. We contemplated how backloaded North Kaibab is with about 2/3 of the elevation in those 5 miles. Fortunately, it’s the best part of the trail IMO with best scenery of the whole trail. Finally made the North Kaibab TH about 430. Then the 1.7 miles to the North Rim lodge which is flat or somewhat downhill just before 5pm. Checked in to the plush accommodations  and relaxed a bit before having an awesome dinner in the lodge. Great way to cap off the day!
Next morning, somewhat early start catching the shuttle back to the trailhead and 6am start. Given the heat from the day before it was downright cold at the start. We kept moving just to keep warm for the first 3 miles past Supai Tunnel and the bridge. Of course, didn’t take long to warm up below the redwall and made the Manzanita Pumphouse for the first break of the day.
After the break it was on to Phantom Ranch for next break. It was getting really hot through this section as expected but still tough stretch. Caught some shade through the Box and arrived at Phantom for a much needed lemonade break! Hydrated best we could and put down some calories for the upcoming hike out. After fairly long break it was time to go.
Of course we timed it perfectly for max heat starting up just before 2pm  Up the South Kaibab Trail with not many others on trail for good reason. However, as luck would have it just before hitting Tipoff the thunder clouds started to build and provided shade on the climb which was a lifesaver. Break at Tipoff and it actually started to sprinkle a bit. After the break continued on to Skeleton Point and next quick break with the clouds and threat of rain still providing welcome relief.
From Skeleton Point our pace slowed but we kept going and reached South Kaibab about 630pm. No speed records but we got it done and happy to catch the bus back to the Visitor Center parking and the vehicle! |
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