This challenging, one day, 19-mile or 13-mile W.I.L.D. hiking trip will leave from the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park on the South Kaibab Trail.  The views from this trail are framed by massive cliffs as we descend to the Colorado River.  As we navigate the 4000 foot elevation gain back up on the Bright Angel Trail, we will see more plant life and animal life than on other South Rim Trails.  The challenge may also include enduring winter temperatures and conditions.  Please note this event may be cancelled if the weather is deemed too severe.  Because of the challenging nature of this hike, only experienced hikers in very good condition will be considered for this trip.  An easier but still challenging 13 mile option is to hike down the South Kaibab about half way to the Colorado River to the Tonto Trail and 4 miles across to the Bright Angel Trail at Indian Gardens.  From there, it is 4.5 miles and a 3000 foot elevation gain to the top.  Just being  here 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.  Are you in?  

This is a Wilderness Inner Life Development (W.I.L.D.) event.

“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

• Saturday, March 24 – Leave San Diego at 5:30am for the Grand Canyon.  All participants are responsible for sharing transportation (gas) costs and housing costs at a hotel near the South Rim entrance.  Participants are also responsible for their own food and water for the whole event.
• Sunday, March 25 – The 19 mile, probable 10 hour hike and the 13 mile, probable 7.5 hour hike, will start at 5am at the South Kaibab Trailhead.  We will be taking the South Kaibab trail to the bottom and returning back up to the South Rim entrance along the Bright Angel Trail.  We plan to drive back to San Diego on Sunday evening after the hike.

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

1. Love adventure
2. Take lots of hikes (with elevation gain) leading up to this challenging event
3. Complete and submit Application and Liability Release Form (application best received by March 17th)
4. Make donation
5. Print out Packing List