Lessons Learned Grand Canyon Hermit – South Kaibab
Tonto Trail criss crossing the Bright Angel Shale, with the Colorado River far below
Always tag luggage with a personal tag complete with address and phone number.
Get boots that fit.
Air mattresses are more comfy than foam (but not as durable).
Preparation is key.
Be prepared to improvise when things go wrong. Stop, discuss, come up with a plan, then act on the plan.
Go to Ranger talks when possible, you’ll always learn something new.
Communication is good. Talk to your hiking partners. Little reminders to hydrate/sunscreen and focus (particularly on exposed cliffs) serve as a good reminder to all.
Use a whistle if you get separated.
Can take dried or cooked food across the border from Canada to the United States (have also taken cooked food into the European Union for the GR20 trip).
Hiking poles are a big aid when going downhill.
When booking hotels in Las Vegas, you must check if you have to pay a “Resort Fee”. I thought I had found deals on Travelocity, $45USD for a night at the Luxor (Pyramid) Hotel and the Stratosphere. Then after booking, I looked at the entire invoice, and I saw a line that said, “There may be a Resort Fee of $45USD added”. Upon arrival at the Luxor, they did charge me the extra $45USD for the Resort Fee. That took what was a relatively cheap night stay, into a not so cheap night stay.
