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Grand Canyon Tips?

PostPosted: Sat Jun 25, 2011 4:54 pm
by Bill Reed
Trying to figure out the best strategy to get camping reservations in the Canyon. Haven't played this game before and was hoping that some fellow SPers might share some insight on maximizing the chance of scoring our reservations.

My older brother has decided he needs to see the Canyon from the inside before he kicks the bucket. I agreed to accompany him since I've been down to the river once before and also to keep him from killing himself. He put in for campground reservations just prior to June 1st for October and got notice this past week that he didn't get them.

I'm thinking that maybe we should put in for November and that both of us should put in for the same times to double our chances. Planning on heading in on the "main highway", the Bright Angel Trail to Indian Gardens then on to Bright Angel CG for a couple nights before heading back, spending another night at IG CG before heading back out.

Any thoughts on this would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

Re: Grand Canyon Tips?

PostPosted: Sat Jun 25, 2011 6:13 pm
by MarkDidier
Have you considered getting off the main corridor trails? I have heard that increases the odds. The Hermit Loop is supposed to be nice, and will get you down to the river. Just a thought. November is also supposed to increase your chances.

Good luck! I know I want to get into the big ditch for a few nights one of these years myself.

Re: Grand Canyon Tips?

PostPosted: Sun Jun 26, 2011 5:02 am
by lcarreau
I didn't have a problem getting a permit when I stayed at Indian Gardens in 1991.

Of course, that was 20 years ago, and times have changed. I still remember the steady stream of mules and bodies on the Bright Angel.

Re: Grand Canyon Tips?

PostPosted: Sun Jun 26, 2011 2:53 pm
by lcarreau
Lionel wrote:Carry water and relax until 5 or so and then hike out.


Yeah, take advantage of the long days and warm nights! And, drink a beer for me down at Phantom Ranch, because I won't be coming down anytime soon.

Been there and done that.

:D

Re: Grand Canyon Tips?

PostPosted: Tue Jun 28, 2011 2:38 am
by Bill Reed
Well, guys, not the tips I was looking for though I do appreciate you taking the time.

Mark-I'm locked in on the route as it's the most civilized for my 65 year old, non-outdoor brother.

Larry-I didn't have a problem in 1970 either, but things have changed a bit.

Lionel-Great idea, don't know why I didn't think of it.

Larry-Yeah, I'll hoist something to ya.

Thanks guys.

We'll be putting in for November in the next couple. Wish me luck!

Re: Grand Canyon Tips?

PostPosted: Tue Jun 28, 2011 5:33 am
by lcarreau
Bill Reed wrote:
We'll be putting in for November in the next couple. Wish me luck!


Bill, at least in November you probably won't trip over any rattlesnakes, or get stung on the bottom of your foot by a scorpion
like my room-mate did.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-YNUu7w-WpU[/youtube]

Re: Grand Canyon Tips?

PostPosted: Thu Jun 30, 2011 5:31 pm
by lcarreau
Lionel wrote:I saw a scorpion last night around 845 on the Bright Angel. It didn't move while I took it's picture.


It's those little "bark" Scorpions that will really put the nasty on you. I'm not much of a night person, PROBABLY for that reason.

To each his own, I guess ... think I'll visit northern UT next month.

:wink:

Re: Grand Canyon Tips?

PostPosted: Fri Jul 08, 2011 2:03 am
by Bill Reed
Got a reservation!!!!

Re: Grand Canyon Tips?

PostPosted: Fri Jul 08, 2011 2:50 am
by MarkDidier
Congrats Bill!!! I assume it is for November. I've always heard that November is much easier to get a res versus October. It may be a little chilly at night, but compared to your trips to the Winds, it'll probably be a heat wave.

Have a great time, and take good care of your big brother. :wink: I look forward to that TR!

Re: Grand Canyon Tips?

PostPosted: Fri Jul 08, 2011 2:55 am
by Bill Reed
If we both make it out alive I'll consider it a success.

Thanks, Mark.