Deep within it's steep canyon walls the mind starts to negotiate with it's hiker alter ego. Why are we hiking 25 miles within this inverted mountain? Where is the meaning behind such a conquest? Alter Ego reminds the mind and obtains the memories of running miles on a tread mill, and hiking hundreds of miles of trails. Ego insists head back into the this great expanse and emerge onto the Coconino Plateau. Personal conquest set aside, the true motivation is derived by achieving the appropriate fitness regimen. The Goal: to hike the main corridor from the South Rim (Canyon Village) to the North Rim (Lodge and Cabins), and with a days rest hike back from the North Rim to the South Rim. A astounding 46 total miles with an accumulative elevation gain of over 26,000 feet. I have uploaded an image of the track files outlining both hikes:
A group of dedicated hikers have been setting this fitness goal for the past three years. Some hikers opt to ride back with the luggage monkey, some hikers opt to hike the grueling 25 mile segment up the bright angel trail which leads back to the Grand Canyon Village. At any rate having a dedicated luggage monkey waiting for you to arrive at the North Rim is priceless. Taken with great pride the luggage monkey offers an assortment of tasty foods and beverages for the weary hikers. The change in climate and elevation becomes overwhelmingly evident; after receiving a light dusting of snow on the North Rim and entering into an enduring 95degree canyon floor. Hikers are often reminded of the elevation gain or loss indicated by the differing color of specific layers found in the Grand Canyon. Given a day of relaxation between the grueling hikes offers unique photo shoot opportunities as we drive to remote vistas on the Kaibab Plateau. I have uploaded a couple of picture we were able to take:
The North Rim offers top notch ambiance with spectacular views. I have included a link to the Guide in PDF format for the North Rim at the Grand Canyon. Auby's Adventures has received acceptance from the NPS at the Grand Canyon to begin day hiking tours in July of this year. Hiking in the Canyon is challenging, but it is very rewarding if you stay within your physical limitations. A huge motivation factor is achieved by setting hiking goals within the Canyon. I encourage everyone to set some fitness goals to get started.
A group of dedicated hikers have been setting this fitness goal for the past three years. Some hikers opt to ride back with the luggage monkey, some hikers opt to hike the grueling 25 mile segment up the bright angel trail which leads back to the Grand Canyon Village. At any rate having a dedicated luggage monkey waiting for you to arrive at the North Rim is priceless. Taken with great pride the luggage monkey offers an assortment of tasty foods and beverages for the weary hikers. The change in climate and elevation becomes overwhelmingly evident; after receiving a light dusting of snow on the North Rim and entering into an enduring 95degree canyon floor. Hikers are often reminded of the elevation gain or loss indicated by the differing color of specific layers found in the Grand Canyon. Given a day of relaxation between the grueling hikes offers unique photo shoot opportunities as we drive to remote vistas on the Kaibab Plateau. I have uploaded a couple of picture we were able to take:
The North Rim offers top notch ambiance with spectacular views. I have included a link to the Guide in PDF format for the North Rim at the Grand Canyon. Auby's Adventures has received acceptance from the NPS at the Grand Canyon to begin day hiking tours in July of this year. Hiking in the Canyon is challenging, but it is very rewarding if you stay within your physical limitations. A huge motivation factor is achieved by setting hiking goals within the Canyon. I encourage everyone to set some fitness goals to get started.
Nicely done! I'm a bit bummed out that I didn't make the hike next year. Maybe I will shoot for next year. Hike on!
ReplyDeleteThanks Jim. You have been very busy with your comedy routine. It takes a ton of dedication and time as you know. We are going to be hitting a backpacking itinerary next year, not as many miles.
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