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Hiking at the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon, to many, is the grand-daddy of all the possible sights to see in the world, the most intriguing visual challenge to conquer. To locals in Arizona, it may more simply be a great place to hike, but the Grand Canyon continues to be one of the top-rated spots to backpack and adventure, even for beginning hikers. Here is a brief guide to hiking at one of the world’s most famous hiking spots.
1. You are responsible for your safety.
The Grand Canyon, though national park land, doesn’t exactly have lifeguards posted at every turn to make sure that hikers have a good time and stay safe. Rather, hiking is an “at your own risk” type of situation, which is what experienced hikers should be used to – but something that all hikers should prepare for.
What’s included in your safety? Having enough supplies for you and yours, having an accurate forecast of the weather, and knowing where you’re starting and where you plan on going. You’ll also want to have an idea of the local environment, including critters to expect along the way, just to cut down on the unexpected things you might come across.2. Choose your hike wisely.
There’s no single “one” Grand Canyon hike, there are many to choose from, and if you’re a beginning hiker you’ll want to choose the easier ones. The views are the same whether you’re a beginning or experienced hiker, so don’t feel bad if you don’t get to explore more on your own the first time; just try to choose a hike that is appropriate to your skill level. It’s possible to challenge yourself without putting yourself out of your element, and if you’re going to be responsible for your safety, it falls on you to choose the right hike.
3. Don’t carry so much.
It’s tempting to take your whole car with you on a hike, packing up your backpack full of plenty of convenient – and heavy – items. Don’t do this, as a heavy backpack is one of the quickest ways to spoil a hike; you don’t want to be crawling to the finish line. Instead, pack as light as possible, including necessary elements like water, and spare what you can afford to spare.
All in all, you’ll find it easy to enjoy the Grand Canyon; hiking it is more a matter of understanding your limits and not trying too hard to challenge yourself. You’ll find that once you’re actually there, the magic of the Grand Canyon will take over and you’ll feel you’ve been hiking all your life.
Photo Credits: The Javelina
