ALL HIKERS

DAY 1: NORTH RIM TO COTTONWOOD CAMP

     We are up around sunrise, eat, and pack our gear.  Although three weeks later, it was not as cold last night as it was on my hike last year.  Another nice thing about having our car here is we can drive the 1+ miles to the trailhead.  We park and begin our hike.  We are entirely shrouded by thick clouds.  This makes for pleasant hiking conditions, but poor pictures.  The trees and foliage are all changing to their autumn colors.

North Kaibab in the clouds
10-9-2001

North Kaibab in the clouds
10-9-2001

North Kaibab in the clouds
10-9-2001

     We reach the Supai Tunnel with no problems and take a rest break.  Unlike my last two hikes, my knees have felt great, which is a big relief.  Hopefully that will hold up for the rest of the hike.

Dennis - Supai Tunnel
10-9-2001

Richard & Dennis - Supai Tunnel
10-9-2001

Richard - Supai Tunnel
10-9-2001

     We continue down the trail and its numerous switchbacks.  A noise behind us is caused by two guys who fly by us doing some kind of rim to rim run.  We are amazed as they quickly fade into the distance and out of sight.  The rock formations are especially pretty this year when combined with the changing colors of the foliage.  After passing a section with steep drop-offs, Dennis explains that he is afraid of heights.  I am impressed that he is doing this hike at all.  We reach the junction for Roaring Springs and head down for lunch.  A picnic table there makes a nice place for our break.

North Kaibab Trail
10-9-2001

North Kaibab Trail
10-9-2001

Dennis - Roaring Springs
10-9-2001

     After lunch, we climb back up to the main trail and head toward Cottonwood.  My knees are still feeling good, which leads me to believe my pre-hike running regimen is paying off.  However, with my 45 pound pack weight, I am ready to be there.  We eventually reach Cottonwood, but all of the good sites are taken, so we end up with a very small site.  Oh well, beggars can't be choosers.

North Rim view from Cottonwood Camp
10-9-2001

Cottonwood Camp
10-9-2001

     With my experience from last year's hike, I point out the North Rim Lodge on the ridge high above us.  Dennis agrees you would never be able to see it without knowing exactly where to look.  Our new North Face tents are working out well.  Tomorrow we will visit Ribbon Falls and then on to Phantom Ranch.

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