Arrival - Yes, we're "there"

On July 4th after an incredibly early flight and a drive from Phoenix through Flagstaff and on to the south rim of the Grand Canyon, we arrived at Maswick Lodge late in the day.

This was to be our base of operations throughout the trip in the sense that we would sleep there the night before trekking and the night before our return flight.  One room also served as a place to stow gear while we were hiking.

We were pretty tired upon arrival, but we had to organize the snacks we had purchased during our stop in Flagstaff.  Plus we had to pack our backpacks to be ready for a shuttle ride the next morning that would take us to the South Kaibab trail head.

The South Kaibab is a fairly steep trail with potable water at the trail head and ... well ...no where else until you arrive at Bright Angel Campground at the very bottom of the canyon.

Here's the start of the journey:

Austin demonstrating his training technique

At the South Kaibab Trail head

Yes it is that hazy, but what a view!

Are we there yet?

It is nearly time for the first leg of our first ever trip into the Grand Canyon.  We have been preparing for several months now climbing stairs, carrying packs, hiking, and getting used to the heat.  The last part has been easy since it has seemed unnaturally hot for a June in Kansas.

NWS says that the South Rim temp will be 81 for a high on Tuesday, 78 on the North Rim and a toasty 101 at the Colorado River.  Considering that the current temp here at home is 105, we may be OK.

Here is a map of the first and fourth legs of the journey.  We will descend the South Kaibab and ascend the Bright Angel on the way back.  Days 2 and 3 will be spent on the North Kaibab.