Venturing Crew 2041 recently set out on an unforgettable hike through the South Kaibab, Tonto, and Bright Angel Trails of the Grand Canyon, navigating steep descents, stunning sunrises, and heat.
On September 28, 2024, Venturing Crew 2041 completed a much-anticipated day hike through sections of the South Kaibab, Tonto, and Bright Angel Trails of the Grand Canyon. Their day began dark and early at 4 AM, hoping to beat the midday heat deep in the canyon. The success of this plan has been a point of debate among the crew. Some members were concerned about the lack of sleep, while others were frustrated that it still became incredibly hot in the canyon anyway.
As the crew descended into the vast chasm, they gradually turned off their headlamps, stopping at a landmark called “Ooh Ahh Point” to witness the sunrise. The golden light bathed the canyon’s strata-lined walls, creating a breathtaking sight. Many others joined the crew, as if witnessing a rare astrological event. Yet, in the Grand Canyon, this marvel of nature occurs every day. The crew watched in awe as the sun rose and the heat descended.
Afterward, the crew continued down what could only be described as the most beautiful set of stairs one could hope to find in nature, their long shadows casting silhouettes across the red western landscape. This descent lasted 9 miles, bringing them almost 3,500 feet below their starting elevation.
As they hiked deeper into the canyon, it became clear that the view from the rim, which millions flock to see each year, does not do the Grand Canyon justice. Seeing the canyon from the bottom is an entirely different experience. It’s a place that can make one feel incredibly small, yet comfortable in that insignificance. Aside from the occasional whirl of a touring helicopter, the crew hiked in reverent silence, focused on each step forward, surrounded by towering primordial stone.
By noon, the crew had completed the downhill portion of the hike and rested at Havasupai Gardens, their last stop before the grueling ascent. The lush greenery almost made them forget the oppressive heat, which pressed down like a steaming iron. A thermometer along the trail pointed to a blistering “90 degrees Fahrenheit,” as if to warn them of the challenge ahead.
The crew was gently ushered out of the Gardens by a construction team, who were stationed in the depths of the canyon for 22 more days. Then, they began their ascent up the Bright Angel Trail, a 4.5-mile test of endurance. Shade became a precious commodity, and every minute spent not climbing felt like time wasted. Brief respites under rocky outcrops became welcome oases where they calculated how much longer the climb would take.
Despite the difficulty, there were valuable lessons to be learned. First, joy can be found in pacing oneself. A consistent rhythm of steps can provide the motivation needed to keep going. Focusing on each step, rather than the full distance, can lead to walking farther than expected without feeling the strain. Another important lesson: reapply sunscreen more than once on a demanding hike!
Finally, after hours of trudging uphill, the crew reached the rim around 3 PM, making better time than expected. Though exhausted, they rewarded themselves with ice cream to recover the 2,700 calories the canyon had taken from them. Despite some chaos involving a lost (and later found) hiking pole, the crew declared the hike a success. So much so that they’re already planning a full rim-to-rim hike for next year!
For more information, feel free to reach out. Val Turner, Advisor, Venturing Crew 2041, Venturecrew2041@gmail.com
