The east route of the South Rim is just as beautiful as the west route was.  I’ve taken nearly 100 pictures these last two days, but I don’t know why.  Not to minimize the awesomeness of the Grand Canyon, but it’s like mountains…so incredibly beautiful and awesome to see but after a while they all look the same.  “Hey look, another beautiful mountain.” “Hey look, another angle of the Grand Canyon.”

Us

Way back in 1983 we actually hiked the Bright Angel Trail the whole 8 miles to the Phantom Ranch at the bottom of the canyon and back up the next day.  It was a very memorable experience.  We would have loved to have done it again but, um, we’re not up to it now.  However, for old time’s sake we did walk down a ways.  And, yes, going back up is harder than going down…that did not change.

Grand Canyon Bright Angel Trail

One option is to take a guided Mule Trip down that same trail.  Guides lead some obviously well-fed mules to the bottom of the canyon, so watch your step!

Share The Trail

There are lots of elk around here and we had the pleasure of seeing several.  The bus driver said in the summer you can see lots more.  The bulls are dropping their antlers right now so they have bare heads.  One walked between us and our motor home when we got off the bus.

Elk

• Gasoline Expense:  none
• Camping Expense: $37