My friend, April Bethea, and I went up on Memorial Day weekend and hiked the Grand Canyon. This year we ended up just staying on he south side of the canyon because I was unable to get a room on the north side. It was kind of fun to do something a little different than the past four times. Smiles!!! We got up bright and early on Saturday morning, headed to the South Kaibab Trailhead and started our descent around 5:30am. It was a little crowded, but there were a lot of visitors in the park trying to get a good shot of the sunrise over the canyon. I wore my running shoes this time which felt great, but made the trail a little slippery. We met some great people from all over the country and heard a few remarks about how quite is was down in the canyon. I love how peaceful I feel inside when I'm there and how it helps me realize I am part of something much bigger than I can truly comprehend.
This nice elk was also awaiting the sunruse right near the trailhead.
At the top off our trail.
The sun was just starting to shine on the cliffs.
Looking down at the trail we are headed for.
Thought these rocks were cool!
Beautiful sunrise.
Me taking cautious steps not to slip.
The South Kaibab Trail is about 6.3 miles from the rim to the river.
We could see little yellow rafts down on the river. Still so far away!!!
Not sure I would want to come out or in the canyon this way. Maybe if i couldn't walk for some reason, but the trail seemed pretty narrow for the horses (and hikers).
April standing outside the tunnel before crossing the Kaibab bridge.
The light at the end of the tunnel.
Looking west down the river.
Rafters taking a break!
Looking back at the bridge we just crossed.
Time to start heading back up. Crossing the Bright Angel Bridge.
Crossing one of the small creek crossings.
There were so many beautiful flowers along the trail.
Making our way out. The Bright Angel Traik is around 9 miles from river to rim. The last three miles are the true test.
We finally made it to the lower of the two tunnels. This meant we were getting pretty close to the top. Yay!!!
Love this picture with the canyon and the clouds.
We were so sweaty and dirty, but the smiles say it all. We LOVED it and will be back again!!!
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