Jewel of the southwest, the Grand Canyon is the heart of Northern Arizona. The Canyon’s unparalleled beauty and diverse ecosystems have attracted humankind for thousands of years. From Ancestral Puebloans and miners, to scientists, artists, and modern day adventurers, this geologic masterpiece stirs the soul of all who see it.
John Wesley Powell, the Kolb Brothers, and Harvey Butchart are but a few names of the pioneers of Grand Canyon exploration and adventure. Whitewater rafting, mountain biking, canyoneering, and rock climbing are all recreational activities the Grand Canyon has to offer, but to truly experience the Canyon, one only needs to put one foot in front of the other.
Backpacking through the depths of this vast labyrinth, from the Canyon’s Rim to the Colorado River, reveals a truly enlightened look at one of the wonders of the natural world. On a recent trip to the Grand Canyon, Delores Miller, accompanied by Hydros Adventures, set out on the world renowned Bright Angel Loop.
This hike is the classic Grand Canyon loop hike and a great backpack for first time Canyon hikers. Using the South Kaibab Trail, a route built by the park service for its expansive views, one walks through the geologic past, making their way to the mighty Colorado River and Bright Angel Campground. Adjacent to the Bright Angel Creek, this is a great base to fish, hike, explore, and relax while taking in the splendor of the inner gorge. Making your ascent out of the Canyon, you will hike through Devil’s Corkscrew and along Garden Creek, through some beautiful sandstone narrows before reaching Indian Gardens. Here, in this desert oasis of ancient cottonwoods, you can set out to observe ancient ruins or take a hike to Plateau Point, one of the most amazing views in the inner canyon. After Indian Gardens, you will hike up Jacob’s Ladder, past stunning vistas and ancient pictographs (rock art) to the end of your journey.
A well traveled route through the Grand Canyon, this area is also the most popular place for inexperienced Canyon hikers to get into trouble. With steep trails and inclement weather, in a part of the west that is still wild, enlisting a guide is not a bad idea. Hydros Adventures has knowledgeable, medically trained guides with thousands of miles of hiking experience in the Park. Not only will they keep you out of trouble, but you’ll have gourmet meals, expert interpreters, and a beast of burden to carry extra gear and set up camp while you enjoy this awe-inspiring experience that is the Grand Canyon.
After your
trip to the Grand Canyon, there will be no question as to why this is a wonder of the natural world, a World Heritage Site, a National Park, and a place where people are moved - no matter how many times their eyes meet this grandest of canyons.
--Rob Sewell
About Guest Author: Rob Sewell is owner and lead guide for Hydros Adventures
www.hydrosadventures.com
