Lynn Warren
August is not the first choice for backpacking in the Grand Canyon since temperatures at the bottom are comparable to Phoenix, but reservations for campsites are much easier to obtain. On August 23, four hikers left PebbleCreek in early afternoon and four hours later were setting up tents at Mather Campground on the South Rim. Early the following morning, the group caught a shuttle to the North Rim where they set up camp in early afternoon, followed by a hike to the North Rim Lodge to enjoy scenic views of the canyon from the top and to catch a colorful sunset. At sunrise the next morning, the group packed up and headed for the North Kaibab Trail to begin the 5,000 feet descent into the inner canyon; for the next four days, the hikers would eat only what they carried on their backs and cooked themselves. They took their time on this rim-to-rim adventure, camping at Cottonwood, Bright Angel and Indian Garden campgrounds, reserving time to explore and enjoy the always impressive scenery. Since the campgrounds were all close to Bright Angel Creek, the hikers enjoyed afternoon breaks in the creek to beat the heat which was 108 to 110 degrees. In all, the group hiked almost 50 miles and in the process picked out a possible destination for next year’s canyon adventure. Although the scenery changes constantly with lighting, one thing that remains constant is the taxing 3,000 foot climb out from Indian Garden on the last day; everyone is always very glad to see the Kolb Studio at the end of the Bright Angel Trail. The hiking club enjoys interesting hikes all around the valley as well as a few overnight adventures such as this. Meetings are held in the Tuscany Ballroom on the third Thursday throughout the hiking season; visit the club’s website at pchikers.org for more information and pictures.