Generally: We will hike and tour the iconic South Rim of the Grand Canyon, camping at the Mather Campground, hiking the Rim Trail and (part of the) Bright Angel Trail, taking in views of the stunning canyon at sunrise and sunset, and sharing fellowship over meals and campfire.
Campground details: We have reserved four (4) campsites at the Mather Campground (named after Stephen Mather, the founding director of the National Park Service). Our reservations accommodate 24 people and 8 vehicles. Pets are allowed on 6-foot leash and may use the Rim Trial. Pets are not allowed on the Bright Angel Trail.
Travel details: On Monday, September 1, at 7:00 AM we will meet at the McDonald's off of Interstate 15 (Silverwood Lake / Highway 138 exit (Exit 131); McDonald's and Chevron directly overlook the freeway from the frontage road at 3230 Wagon Train Road, Phalan, CA 92371). We will gather and caucus; those who wish to caravan to the Grand Canyon with me may do so; others may wish to drive individually and meet at the Mather Campground. We will set up camp in the afternoon, begin exploring the area, eat dinner together, and share a campfire.
Activity details: On Tuesday, September 2, we will breakfast early together and then walk the Rim Trail to witness the sunrise over the Grand Canyon. We will hike the Rim Trail and orient ourselves to the Visitor Center, various viewpoints / vistas, and museums found in the South Rim. The Rim Trail is 12 miles long; we will walk as far as we wish as a group. In the afternoon, we will drive east to Desert View and tour the eastern portion of the South Rim. We will return to camp, dine together, go back to the Rim to witness sunset, and share a campfire.
On Wednesday, September 3, we will again eat an early breakfast together and then hike partially down the Bright Angel Trail, returning by lunchtime. In the afternoon, we will drive through Flagstaff to the nearby Wupatki, Sunset Crater, and Walnut Canyon National Monuments to see ancient Native American settlements. Time permitting, we will tour the excellent Museum of Northern Arizona. We will then return to camp, dine together, and share a campfire
On Thursday, September 4, we will break camp early and share a meal at the iconic and historic Theodore Roosevelt-era El Tovar Hotel (the classic lodge of Grand Canyon National Park). We will then drive west, home to California.
To bring: 10 essentials, daypack, layered clothing, hiking boots, tent, sleeping bag, camp chair, lantern / headlamp, stove, cooking / eating utensils, and your individual food for September 1, 2, 3, and 4 (with extra to share with the party).
Level: Easy
Signup Instructions: Please sign up online.
Bring: 10 essentials, layered clothing, hiking boots, tent, sleeping bag, lantern/headlamp, stove, individual food for September 1, 2, 3, and 4 (with extra to share with the group).
Signup Restrictions: 24-person limit.
Additional Directions: We will meet on Monday, September 1 at 7:00 AM at the McDonald's overlooking I-15 at Silverwood Lake / Highwood 138 (Exit 131). We will caucus, and those wanting to caravan to the Grand Canyon with me can do so, while those wanting to drive individually can meet the group at the Mather Campground at the Grand Canyon's South Rim.
Cancellation Policy: Activity is held rain or shine, but may be altered due to inclement weather