The Gathering

Backpacking through the inner canyon of the Grand Canyon is no walk in the park (pardon the pun). This backpacking trip required careful planning. I have read about many trips meeting with failure due to hikers not making the requisite plans before they travel; not just in the Grand Canyon but anywhere. This trip had actually evolved over about two years. 

The most difficult part of the trip was gathering a team that could make the commitment to travel and hike the inner canyon. I had almost consigned my self to doing this as a solo adventure. The team went through several people before even getting out there. However, two of us did finally make it to the Grand Canyon. I was a bit disappointed with the last minute cancellations, but there was nothing at this point that was going to deter me from doing this trip. The hiking team consisted of just my friend Elliot Flick and myself. 

Elliot is in great shape being a marathon runner. I always deemed myself to be in good shape, but started preparing early with 5 mile runs, spinning, and climbing stairs with a pack. I am glad that I did, for the trip by no means was going to be a stroll. Something inside me told me it was going to be hard trying to keep pace with El. He had originally made a flippant remark about our longest hike, the 11 miles to Clear Creek; "That's all." (Mental note: remember to pack crowbar).