This spectacular W.I.L.D. backpacking trip will leave from the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park on the Bright Angel Trail.  The views from this trail are framed by massive cliffs as we descend toward the Colorado River.  We will camp two nights at Indian Gardens Campground about halfway between the South Rim and the Colorado River.  The second day of hiking will be a day hike without our large backpacks, down to the Colorado River and back, a hike of between 7-10 miles depending how much we hike along the Colorado.  As we hike primarily on the Bright Angel Trail for three days, we will see more plant life and animal life than on other South Rim Trails.  Some early rising will be necessary for this trip.  Just sleeping outside for three nights will be a treat, as will be the jaw-dropping views of the Grand Canyon.  Add to all this the soul stirring W.I.L.D. group interaction plus the opportunity to raise money for a worthy cause, and you have a bucket list experience.  The back country permits are obtained, the campsite at Indian Gardens is secured.  Are you in?  If you do one backpack trip in the Grand Canyon – make it this one!

“Few places in this world are more dangerous than home.  Fear not, therefore, to try the mountain passes.  They will kill care, save you from deadly apathy, set you free, and call forth every faculty into vigorous, enthusiastic action.”

– John Muir

Itinerary

• Friday, November 9 – We depart early morning on the 8-9 hour drive to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.  After enjoying the amazing views, we have dinner together and settle in early to our camp site at the south rim for the night.
• Saturday, November 10 – Fueling with a hot breakfast, we test ourselves on the beautiful Bright Angel Trail.  Our campsite for the next two nights, Indian Gardens, lies 3,000 feet below the rim.  On this 4.5 mile hike, we will have fresh water available along the way.  After we set up camp, we will take our daypacks with us on a fairly level 3 mile round trip stroll to Plateau Point for a view of the Colorado River far below us.
• Sunday, November 11 – With only our daypacks, lunch and water, we set off early for the bottom of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River.  This 7-10 mile hike will allow us to experience all the splendor the canyon has to reveal.
• Monday, November 12 – This is the day we trek back up the steepest part of the Bright Angel Trail.  We will get an early start after breakfast and plan to get to the rim before lunch.  On our way back to San Diego, we will stop along the way to buy a quick lunch and/or dinner.  Our goal is to arrive back in San Diego by 9pm Monday night.

Mandatory Qualifying Steps for W.I.L.D. Grand Canyon Backpack Trip

1. Love adventure
2. Be a team player
3. Complete and submit Application and Liability Release Form
4. Make donation
5. Print out Packing List and Trip Tips
6. Complete the Qualifying Hike in San Diego (TBD)
7. Attend Pre-Trip Meeting (TBD)