February 5, 2015

February 5, 2015

Since we made the long trek to Northern Arizona, Aimee decides we should take advantage and do our favorite hike for the third time.  I am not so convinced.  The Grand Canyon is very cold during the winter.  We encountered snow both times we visited in May!  After looking at the unseasonably warm weather forecast, I agree.

It is two hours from Page to the South Rim.  By the time we buy crampons (in case we run into ice in sheltered spots), get dressed and shuttled to the trailhead, it is noon.  The hike down South Kaibab is delightful.  The weather is great and we never tire of seeing the different Grand Canyon view around every corner.  As we descend we are also going back in time.  Every rock layer and every stride is like a step 100,000 years into the past.  It took us almost five hours to make the 7.5 mile journey. Since it is February, we had the whole canyon to ourselves after the first hour. 

At Phantom Ranch, we check into our dormitory accommodations and eat the best beef stew in the country.