Not quite Rim to Rim

[Angie Sanders]

Actually, I'm hiking with a few others down to Phantom Ranch in mid-April. We're hiking down the South Kaibab one day, spending the night in a cabin, and then hiking out the next day up Bright Angel (longer, but less steeper apparently). Am I crazy? Is this too much for two days? I'm in relatively good shape and a frequent hiker. Also, can't find specifics on water. What's the deal? ANY other advice much appreciated!!! THANKS!!!

[Chad Mason]

You'll be fine. There is no water on the South Kaibab, but you'll be going downhill in the morning (I assume) so you'll be able to carry all the water you'll need. I usually take about 50-70 ounces and never use it all. There is plenty of water at Phantom. For the hike out, the first water you'll come to is at Indian Garden, which is about 5 miles from Phantom (and 4.5 miles from the rim). Above there, there are rest houses every 1.5 miles which have water seasonally. Check at the rim when you arrive to see if they have water running to the rest houses. It's a beautiful hike and I'm sure you'll have a great time. We go up a few times a year for backpacking trips and for our annual rim to rim to rim each October. I have tons of pics of the trails, etc. on my site at http://www.rimtorim.com if you'd like to check them out.

Enjoy your trip!

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