We finally got to visit the Grand Canyon, a destination that just about everyone we know has been too and loves. We seem to always being going just past Phoenix with no time off to go see this national treasure. So after a little planning we worked it out to spend a few days explores the canyon.
We scored a one day permit to hike down into the canyon, to Horseshoe Mesa. We didn’t go all the way to the bottom but it was a haul. I’m not going to lie it was hard. This section of the park was one of the early tourist destinations, with trails cut for mules. That sounds well and good but a large part of the trail in covered in sort of slanted cobblestone. Not fun at all to hike on. By the bottom my toes hurt but wow! This is what met us there.
After setting up camp there was nothing to do but enjoy the views and relax a bit. The weather on the top of the canyon was quite cool and windy but down at the lower elevation it was delightful. Just a sweatshirt at night to enjoy the stars. Tucked into our sleeping bags that evening it was a delightful sleep.
Now the way down was hard but the trip back out was very tough. Just need to take breaks but I would do it again to see stuff like this.
The Roving Van Gelders 
Beautiful pictures! What a great adventure! Lucky you!
I looked up what you did on a map. I just got back from a fantastic rim to rim and back trip in the Grand Canyon and am looking for other routes to explore. This one looks great.
The views are crazy because of all the switchbacks and its a quiet trail.
Abigail
That’s so beautiful and I would LOVE to see the Grand Canyon. I grew up in Colorado and have never been there, maybe someday!!
diana
It’s an incredible place. What a great experience to go down!