Adventure in the Grand Canyon!!

Day1: We drove from Scottsdale, Arizona to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Our total travel time is about 4 hours. It is a pretty scenic drive beginning in the Sonoran Desert, gradually climbing thousands of feet in elevation onto the Mogollon Rim, a high plateau covered in vast pine forests capped off by the San Francisco Peaks. After arriving at the Grand Canyon, we hiked about 3.5 miles to our lodge. It’s a spectacular site at the top of the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. We rested and prepared for our descent the next day.

Day2: We started our descent via the South Kaibab Trail to arrive at the phantom ranch. This is a 7 miles and 4,780 feet descent into the grandest of the canyons. This route took us down a ridge-line of breath-taking 360 degree views of the Canyon. This started with a series of switch-backs to the incredible Ooh Aah point. Here we descended another 1,200 feet to the Cedar Ridge. We went on to the Tonto platform into the inner gorge. The final part of the hike is along the Colorado river , over a suspension bridge where we got to the Phantom Ranch. This is situated on the banks of the Bright Angel Creek. We had reservations at this camp where we stayed for the night, with all meals included for our stay. it’s a very decent stay.Total hike of 7.5 miles. Rocky and steep terrain that is well maintained.

Day 3: We enjoyed a full day of exploring, enjoying the camp and socialising. We went on a 5 mile hike to the Ribbon falls. Elevation gain/loss: up to 1,000 feet. It’s a hidden trail with the gift of the water-falls awaiting us at the end. You can choose to relax in your own way. There are plenty of bird-watching and photographic opportunities. All meals were included in the Phantom Ranch lodge.

Day 4: We climbed back to the rim via the Bright Angel Trail. We crossed the Colorado river and followed the trail. The trail snakes its way up out of the inner gorge to the Indian Gardens. A little bit of shade there and refilling of water. Then we tackled the steep ascent up the Jacob’s ladder. It was challenging but we were prepared. Through out the hike you will be constantly awe-struck by the breathtakingly beautiful views. This is a hike of 10 miles. The terrain is well maintained trail with a 4,300 foot elevation ascent. Finally we made it to the South Rim and celebrated with hugging and some ice creams :). It's an incredible feeling to have hiked the Grand Canyon! I can tick it off my bucket-list. Then we made our way back to Phoenix.

A key factor for this hike is proper preparation, hydration and diet. You have to be fit and ready for this challenge. Use hiking poles if you are in doubt.Try out your boots and go on strenuous hikes prior to your Canyon trip. Personally I increased my running and swimming regimen as a preparation for this. I also got used to my hiking boots, going on various small hikes prior to this adventure. Believe me, that makes it so much easier! Be sure to read and follow the instructions from the official site from the National Park service if you choose to hike in the extremes of the summer or winter.

This is a specular adventure in the wild west. Prepare and absolutely go for it!