- What to bring for your hotel stay: Bring whatever you like, as long as it fits in a small-to-medium-sized suitcase. We will be staying in lodges for four of our nights.
- Meals and Snacks: Regular meals will be provided, but bring your own snacks. Be sure to bring plenty so that you can snack frequently every day. Regular snacks which combine protein, fat, carbohydrates, and electrolytes, work well to maintain stamina.
- Meal Clean-up: Sharing in meal clean-up will enhance our ability as a group to manage our time efficiently.
- Share carrying food: In the Grand Canyon, communal food and kitchenware will be divided up among participants. Hikers who have room in their packs and are able to carry a little extra, perhaps as much as five pounds, will be greatly appreciated by all.
- Clothing: Think base, insulation, and protection. Bring comfortable layers that fit loosely and don’t bunch or pull. Choose synthetic fabrics that wick moisture away from the body, not heat (as cotton does). Bring enough layers for all the variable weather we may encounter — the low at the North Rim may be around 20F, the high at Phantom Ranch could reach 90F, and it might rain or snow as we hike out to the South Rim.
- Footwear: Happy feet make a happy hiker. Well-fitted and broken-in hiking boots are essential. Wearing new boots on your training hikes will accomplish this for you. Closely trimmed toenails help as well. Also bring two layers of socks – one liner to wick moisture away from the skin and minimize chafing, and one for warmth and cushioning.
- Preventing blisters: Be aware of the fit of your boots and monitor the condition of your feet. Use moleskin and adhesive tape on pressure points. Examine your feet every morning and on the trail. Tape vulnerable spots before they become tender.
- The best way to arrange your backpack: Your pack will be well balanced if you put the heaviest items closer to your body, closer to your center of gravity.
- Recharging batteries in the Canyon: Batteries can be charged at Phantom Ranch. Some hikers prefer lithium non-rechargeable batteries, which last longer and weigh less. Their higher voltage should be compared with your equipment requirements.
- Telephones in the Canyon: Cellphones do not work below the rim in the Grand Canyon. However, there is a pay phone at Phantom Ranch which will accept calling cards. The phone works most of the time.
- Testing your gear: Many of us will go on at least one or two extended backpacking trips this summer. Even one three-day trip will give you ample opportunity to test and refine your gear and your pack fit and weight adjustment. This will allow you to enter the Grand Canyon with confidence and will enhance your ability to enjoy the trip.
