Date of trip: August 2004

The first time I looked out on the Grand Canyon, I was overwhelmed by its size and beauty. I wanted to see every inch of it and I knew I had to go to the bottom. There are only two ways into the Canyon: you can walk or you can ride a mule. Hoping it was a safer way to deal with the dangerous cliffs and heat, Will and I chose the mule.

Planning:

Reservations must be made and are taken up to two years in advance. You can take a day trip, an overnight or a two night trip. If you also plan to stay on the rim of the Canyon during your trip, all reservations should be made at the same time.

There are several hotels at the Grand Canyon but only three are historic and located on or inside the South Rim:

The first is the fancy El Tovar which every U.S. president has stayed at. It has turn down service, a porter and an excellent restaurant for which reservations can be made 6 months in advance.

Second, is the Phantom Ranch lodging area at the bottom of the Canyon. If you choose to take an overnight mule trip it will include a stay and dinner here. Everything is brought in and out of the area by mule, including your mailed postcards!

Last is the Bright Angel Lodge, a collection of cabins right on the South Rim. Each has its own fireplace and the view is unparalleled. When the sun rises, you can watch condors soaring high outside your window.

The Trip:

There are height and weight restrictions for this trip and you can’t be afraid of heights or large animals. If you have any medical problems, check with the staff when you secure your reservations to make sure they can accommodate you. Some people try to get around the rules, but they are strictly enforced. You will receive a list of requirements ahead of time stating what you must wear and what you can bring.

I was really scared when I first got onto my mule. I thought I would be buckled in but aside from stirrups on my feet, I was just sitting on top hanging on. Before long I realized the mules knew what they were doing and I could relax and enjoy the amazing view. I noticed right away how physically demanding riding was. It’s hard on your legs and knees, arms, stomach and back.

The guide was very helpful with instructions on steering the mule and posture. The animals take the the trip all the time and are generally bored with it. It’s not unusual for them to slow down or try to eat along the way. It’s your job to make sure you don’t fall behind with the motivators handed out before the tour. They are small switches to swat the mules’ flanks with. It doesn’t hurt them and your safety depends on it. If a mule falls too far behind, he will trot or full out run to catch up to the others. This is not fun or comfortable for a rider, especially on the side of a cliff.

The ride down was about 4 hours with one stop for lunch. As I looked around I thought I had never seen anything so beautiful. When we arrived at Phantom Ranch, we were tired and the sun was hot. We took a nap before a great dinner (vegetarian options are available if requested in advance) and swam in Bright Angel Creek. A ranger gave a talk on mountain lions and walking back to our cabin we saw a little tarantula and a deer. Phantom Ranch is an amazing place. Everyone shares the bond of surviving the trip to the bottom and the crowd is very interesting. I loved hearing stories of adventures that fellow visitors had been on.

Going back was more difficult because we were all so sore. No position felt comfortable. Although the trip was incredible, I was really happy when we reached the top and I could take a shower and just rest. I don’t want to discourage anyone, but if you have problems with your back, this trip may not be for you.

Like most activities this trip has risks involved but as long as you are educated on them you can be safe. That said, I love the Grand Canyon and have often called it my favorite place on earth. I think that everyone should visit at least once and I know I will return.

For more pictures, please visit my Photo Gallery or click on any of the photos posted above.

Grand Canyon South Rim Links:
Grand Canyon Official Site
Grand Canyon South Rim Hotel and Tour Reservations

Date of trip: August 2004

The city of Sedona is located about 2 hours north of Phoenix and two hours south of Flagstaff. Three million years ago, the Colorado Plateau popped up from the earth like a cork. With time, erosion by wind and rain created Oak Creek Canyon in Sedona, miles of layered mountains made of “red rocks”. The rocks are made mostly of sandstone. Why are they red? They are coated with iron rich soil that rusts! The effect is absolutely stunning.

Highlights:

-Over the years, many celebrities have fallen in love with the area including Walt Disney. If you’ve been to Disney World, you’ve probably ridden the Thunder Mountain ride which was designed to look like a particular mountain in Sedona. Today that mountain is called, of course, Thunder Mountain as a tribute to Disney. Other famous formations include Coffee Pot Rock and Snoopy Rock.

-Some mystics believe Sedona harbors magical energy. There are a few locations where vortexes are said to exist. Many say that upon entering these areas they have been filled with spiritual energy and uplifting forces. You can find maps of the vortexes all over the city. Will and I visited one and it was a bit windy but, then again, it was on top of a mountain.

-The best way to see Sedona is to take a jeep tour. There are several companies that offer them, but the most well known and popular is the Pink Jeep Tour. We expected a relaxing ride but it was actually quite rough. The jeeps literally drives up and down the rocks at 90 degree angles! I loved this tour because Sedona is quite touristy and we were taken away from that to an area where we could enjoy the red rocks in a peaceful and natural setting.

-Avoid the crowds if you want to get the most out of Sedona’s beauty. Main Street is full of tourists and salespeople. Go for a drive or hike. Sunrise and sunset are both beautiful, but it’s a lot easier to find a quiet spot at 5am than at 7:30pm, so get up early!

-The Chapel of the Holy Cross is worth visiting even if you are not particularly religious. Built into a mountain, in the shape of a cross, the only word to describe it is breathtaking. It also offers some of the best views of the city.

Sedona can get very hot and dusty so be sure to dress appropriately and drink lots of water. You should also be aware of the high altitude and take things slow if it bothers you. Most importantly, make sure your camera has lots of space for pictures as you will want to take a lot of them!

It’s easy to understand why someone would think a striking place like Sedona has secret powers, but you can decide for yourself. Either way, it’s unlikely you will leave without feeling some connection to the city whether it be spiritual, physical or another way uniquely yours.

For more pictures, please visit my Photo Gallery or click on any of the photos posted above.

Sedona Links:
Sedona Official Site
Wild Sedona Vortex Maps
Pink Jeep Tours
Chapel of the Holy Cross