Here are some things that I recommend and things friends have asked be included when giving information to first-time Canyon hikers. I hope these help you on your next trip.
Driver should provide a spare car key to the strongest or weakest hiker. That way, when the strongest hiker gets to the top, they can retrieve the vehicle. Or, when the weakest hiker gets to the top, they can access the vehicle while the others wait inside the lodge. Of course, they need to know where to find the vehicle after it has been moved, so be sure they have the make/model/plate# and a general idea of where to look.
Measure and bag food for each meal so you don't take too much or too little. Ideally, you should end the hike with only one snack still in your pack. Note: the used bags can be used for trash.
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| Early morning down Bright Angel Trail to avoid the heat at the sand dune, May 2017. |
Driver should provide a spare car key to the strongest or weakest hiker. That way, when the strongest hiker gets to the top, they can retrieve the vehicle. Or, when the weakest hiker gets to the top, they can access the vehicle while the others wait inside the lodge. Of course, they need to know where to find the vehicle after it has been moved, so be sure they have the make/model/plate# and a general idea of where to look.
Measure and bag food for each meal so you don't take too much or too little. Ideally, you should end the hike with only one snack still in your pack. Note: the used bags can be used for trash.
Shoes/boots and your feet should be broken in prior to trip. During your training activities, wear the footwear and socks that you will be wearing on the trip. Hiking boots are recommended if you need the additional ankle support while carrying the 30-pound pack over rocky terrain. To keep your feet from sliding forward in your boots, use the lock-lace method to help prevent black toe (blister under toenail).
A change of clothes is not necessary; no one cares if you wear the same clothes for five days. Only bring what you will wear at the coldest time on the trip. Note: You also will sleep in your clothes (or without clothes). (I went with someone who actually brought pajamas and slippers, in addition to a large size tube of toothpaste. Not a good idea.)
Don’t bring clothes/socks that you want to wear again after the trip expecting them to look the same color. The iron in the sand in the Canyon will turn most light-colored material a rusty color.
Don’t bring clothes/socks that you want to wear again after the trip expecting them to look the same color. The iron in the sand in the Canyon will turn most light-colored material a rusty color.
Use handi-wipes to freshen up your body. No one will notice how you smell (over their own smell).
Bring 12+ inches of Duct tape by wrapping around trekking pole or flashlight, etc.
Bring 12+ inches of Duct tape by wrapping around trekking pole or flashlight, etc.
Bring air pillow or make your pillow out of clothes put in your sleeping bag stuff sack. If you don’t like the feel of the stuff stack material on your face, you can cover the bag with your bandana or bring a small pillow case.
Use hiking stick(s) to assist in the downhill and uphill steps, and to assist with boulder hopping at several creek crossings. If you are new to using trekking poles, watch the first part of this video for proper use of trekking poles.
Wear knee braces going down.
Leave rings/jewelry at home. Fingers have a tendency to swell.
Remove or turn battery in flashlight so it doesn't turn on by accident when in your pack.
Leave rings/jewelry at home. Fingers have a tendency to swell.
Remove or turn battery in flashlight so it doesn't turn on by accident when in your pack.
When the trail is going up/down in a straight line, make your own switchbacks (serpentine) to avoid having your toes slide into the end of your shoes on the down hills, and to take pressure off your muscles on the up hills.
Taking frequent stops to rest on the uphills may seem like a good idea, but for some it makes getting started again very difficult. Sometimes it is easier to just keep moving but take shorter strides (baby steps, heel to toe stride) so that you are actually resting as you move forward albeit much slower.
Note: Since everyone needs to go at a pace that is good for them, you may be hiking without a member of our group at your side; but you are never alone on this trail. The trail winds above allowing members of our group to keep an eye on you. Look ahead and look behind for members of our group. Try to keep someone in sight at all times while maintaining your pace. This trail is the most heavily used trail in the Canyon, so you will likely make friends on the way up.
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| Big winds can blow a lot of sand in tent. Don’t know what to tell you, except grin and bear it. |