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Grand Canyon hiking is one of the most challenging
and rewarding of adventures. Getting up close
and personal makes the Grand Canyon yours in
a way that doesn't happen with standing at the
rim observing or looking down from an airplane.
Unlike most other hiking, the going down is
the easy part; the hiking back up to altitudes
of 7000-8000 feet is more difficult. Only those
who are in peak physical condition should make
difficult hikes. Over 250 people are rescued
from the canyon each year—most of them
strong, able-bodied fit timers. Nevertheless,
it is a challenge many of us long to accomplish.
"My husband and I are
mid-thirties and consider ourselves in good
shape. So walking down Bright Angel Trail
a mile seemed like a simple thing on that
hot August afternoon. We were tempted to go
further—it was so easy. Wow! Were we
unprepared! The hike back up was totally grueling.
Thank goodness there were water fountains
along the way as we dehydrated quickly. It
was walk a few steps, rest a few. At the trailhead
arch, some hiker had emblazoned: "Never
again Charlie." I'd still like to try
it, though, but now I know to be far better
prepared."
Here are the Rules of the
Trail to make your Grand Canyon hiking experiences
fun:
- Carry at least twice as much water as you
are used to drinking (minimum 1 gallon or
4 liters).
- Drink before you are thirsty so you don't
dehydrate before you are aware of it.
- Eat frequently and substantially. Include
plenty of salty snacks. It takes a lot of
energy to walk at these altitudes. Eating
prevents hyponatremia—water intoxication
that creates an electrolyte imbalance. Carry
electrolyte drink mixes.
- Be alert for any signs of heat exhaustion
or heat stroke. If you start to feel overheated,
less alert, or nauseous, seek shelter and
rest.
- Do not hike in the heat of the day.
- Carry anti-inflammatory medicines.
- Consider using a walking stick while hiking.
- Pack light.
- Hike no faster than you can comfortably
talk. Huffing and puffing means you are not
getting enough oxygen and causes a buildup
of waste products that make you feel fatigued.
Walk at a slower pace and take smaller steps
to conserve your energy.
- A small misting bottle will help cool you.
Especially keep your head cool.
- Wear hat, sunscreen.
- Stay on the trail.
- Take a 5-10 minute break every half hour.
- Wear appropriate footwear for hiking. Use
moleskin to prevent blisters.
- Do not attempt to hike to the river and
back in one day!
Day hikes are a great
introduction to the Canyon
Day hiking trails are abundant in the
rim areas. A favorite path at the South Rim
lies between Yavapai Museum and Hermit's Rest,
a distance of 9 miles. Between Maricopa Point
and Yavapai museum, a 3 1/4 mile distance, the
trail is paved and mostly level.
Backcountry Grand
Canyon Hiking
Some of the best hiking in the world
is in the Grand Canyon. It is an ultimate hiking
challenge given the high desert conditions.
You must be in the peak of fitness to take on
this challenge, and follow the rules of desert
hiking. The most often hiked stretch is from
the South Rim to Phantom Ranch at the bottom
of the Grand Canyon for an overnight stay. It
is both inspiring and humbling to realize that
the 8 miles descent on the Bright Angel Trail
passes through one and a half billion years
of earth history. Some enjoy a Rim to Rim trek,
and there is a group tour for hikers who want
the safety net and camaraderie of other fellow
hikers. You must obtain a backcountry
permit.
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