Grand Canyon

This was my third time hiking the canyon and David's first. It was truly a wonderful, tiring, and amazing experience. Although I certainly was in better shape the last time I ventured into the canyon and hiked to the bottom on the Kaibab Trail, I was more prepared this time. We had ample food and water and the temperature was MUCH nicer than the balmy 105 that I experienced in July 1998. Also I had David's support. His constant awe while hiking the trail was really bouying.

We went only 3 miles, to the first rest stop and back, and another 4 miles around the canyon rim, but every step reminded me of my serious struggles in the canyon during my first trip and my absolute determination to beat the trails on my second. To share all of that with David was something I had wanted to do for a long time

Finally, I would add that if any of you ever get the chance to venture to the canyon, think about taking a short hike. Many people simply drive by or hover near the top. A brief descent of 0.5 miles into the canyon offers a completely different view and appreciation. A short 1.0 mile hike already pushes one into a realm where few "tourist" have tread. The 1.5 mile hike that we did had us communing with all manner of people, from a women fighting her way up from Indian Gardens to a handicapped man trying to go from rim to rim and back in 72 hours. A feeling of comraderie and community develops where the path gets narrow and steep. It is well worth the three hours of tough hiking to experience it.

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