I have never been so excited about a vacation as I am right now.

[Pale Blue Dot]

I'm going to the Grand Canyon! I'm going to hike down the South Kaibab Trail, stay overnight at the Phantom Ranch, and then hike back up on the Bright Angel Trail. This is something I have dreamed of doing for 20 years, and I'm so giddy that I can hardly think about anything else.

Has anyone else made this trip? Any tips or advice you can give me? (Mostly I just want to talk about it).

[Ariana Celeste]

1. Right the hell on

I haven't been out that ways, but I have wanted to for some time; my dream is to someday be able to travel all over the country.

Will you be taking pictures? :7

Hope you have a great time!!!

[Pale Blue Dot]

2. Pictures are a definite.

I'm trying to decide if I can afford a better digital camera before I go.

I'm also bring sunscreen, SFP 5,000.

[Ariana Celeste]

3. Good idea

Won't want to get home sunburnt and blistered beyond recognition!

[madmom]

4. I've been to the canyon 3 times...

and it never ceases to amaze me I'm awe struck the entire time. One of the most beautiful places on earth.

[Pale Blue Dot]

6. I'm hoping for something of a religious experience

I know that I've never seen anything like it, and I imagine that pictures don't do it justice.

[madmom]

10. you are so right on that one...

pictures are nothing compared to being there. The last time we were there my husband, daughter and I went up to Sodona(sp) and visited Bell Rock in the early morn. and we all three agreed we felt "something" some kind of inner peace. Bell Rock is suppose to be a vortex and besides that it is also beautiful.

[CottonBear]

5. Take a good sun hat, shades, sunscreen

and lots of water. Break your hiking boots in well before you go.
You're gonna have the time of your life! Please post pics for us!

I hiked in from the North Rim, which is ,apparently, quite a different experience than the South Rim trail.

[Pale Blue Dot]

7. All great suggestions

All of the websites say to have at least a gallon of water both ways. I'm also bringing: a first aid kit, a flashlight, and salty, high-carb foods.

[CottonBear]

9. You don't realize you're getting dehydrated because

your sweat evaporates. I'm from the south and I'm used to sweating buckets in the summer heat. You are dry as a bone out there in Arizona. I had to spend an unexpected night in the Arizona desert once. It got really cold during the night. Take a "space blanket" and some sort of light weight jacket. Coolmax sock liners under merino wool socks are good for preventing blisters and keeping the feet dry.

[tinfoilinfor2005]

8. Only flew over it on a plane, but I can't wait to see it close up...

remember, planning your itinerary and doing the preliminary stuff before you go is already part of your trip...you are basically already on your trip. Enjoy every minute!!