Grand Canyon, Day One, Part One

On Wednesday, May 13, Shauna, Daniel (trip leader), David (trip photographer), and Laurie met Randy and I at the Mather Campground, located on the south rim, where we spent the night before descending into the Grand Canyon.

The next morning we set out on the Bright Angel Trail with our most basic belongings strapped to our backs.

It was fun to hike down into the canyon but I couldn't believe how hard it was on my legs! Whenever we would stop for a rest my legs would begin to shake uncontrollably.

The path was very rocky. I had to look down the entire time I walked to be sure I didn't stumble over a rock. It felt disappointing to have to look down so much when I was in one of the most beautiful areas of our country.

At times we would rest, have a drink of water, and eat a snack. When I would look up at the rim, I was amazed at how quickly and how far we descended into the canyon.

This picture below is a picture of the south rim. It doesn't seem possible that there is a trail that takes you to where we are in the picture--the vertical wall does not seem to allow for it!

In the same picture, just over David's shoulder, are some tall, lovely cottonwood trees. I believe that was the location of the Indian Garden Campground--our base camp and home for two happy days.

More of day one tomorrow!

Karen