Grand Canyon Pre-Planning

[Mustardman]

Throw me down as an unlikely, but interested, party. It's a bit of a drive and I've used up all of my vacation time for the forseeable future, but it would be cool if the timing works out where I can swing it.

[Scottybdiving]

Here is a link to photos of Mather Campground at the South Rim. It looks doable for hammocks, although I have never stayed there. It is inside the park. Didn't someone mention Desert View Campground? Desert View Watchtower overlooks one of the most beautiful parts of the Grand Canyon and is the trailhead for the Tanner Trail. It would also be away from the crowds in the park and would be my choice. The park is a busy bee hive with tons of international visitors.

North Rim is a lot tougher logistically. I have taken the shuttle from PHX to Flagstaff, and the one from Flagstaff to South Rim, both ways. They are inexpensive alternatives as long as you don't need transportation when you get there.

BTW, PHX airport is one of the cheapest and easiest airports to fly into from about anywhere in the country.

[dejoha]

I should have added a time component to the poll. I'm thinking either spring or fall. Not summer.

I'd like this to be an event worth traveling for as it is a life-list location for many. This planning thread is looking at the 2012 season, if there is interest.

[samsara]

This would actually be a bucket list item for me (as long as it included a hike to the bottom). I would prob need for it to be fall of 2012 so I had the time to plan and save.

Dave

[samsara]

P.S. Where is the option to vote for "North Rim 2-3 nights campground, 3-4 nights wilderness as late in the fall as possible"?

Dave

[Cali]

This is defintely a wishlist place, and I am in for next year Spring or Fall. I just have to plan the vacation time.

[MuseJr]

I'm interested in the canyon in general. I will do what I can to make the trip anytime but summer. I would prefer to stay up north in the summer months.

[photohiker]

The park is a busy bee hive with tons of international visitors.

Guilty as charged, your honor.

I'd love to walk the Canyon again, but it's a long, long, way from here. I'll keep an eye on this thread just in case the planets line up...

Michael

[Cranky Bear]

I would sooooooo LOVE to attend, but, the funds are very tight and I don't foresee that changing for quite some time (like years)!

[Scottybdiving]

I think the North Rim would be perfect. The campground is open mid May to Mid Oct. It is 1000' higher in altitude (8000') than the South Rim so heat should not be a problem even in early or late summer. Would be much less crowded but harder to get to.