South Kaibab all the way down and Bright Angel all the way up. The 18-mile trek has been regarded as one of the hardest hikes in Arizona. Hiking the trails in one day is even harder. On Saturday, May 10, 2024, my dad and I did exactly that. Beginning at 6:30 in the morning, taking a break at 10:00, and hiking out at 6:00 p.m., I set a new record for myself. This was my first time setting foot in the Grand Canyon and it was something to remember.

My day began at our campsite with my dad’s alarm waking us up at 4:00 a.m. Our highly nutritional breakfast consisted of Pop-Tarts, bananas, and Slimjims. In the morning, it was about 45 degrees Fahrenheit. As the shuttle stopped at the trailhead, I was so nervous because I had no idea what the trail was like.

The good thing is, South Kaibab is a very well-taken-care-of trail. There are no large rocks and it is very hard to lose your footing. Besides the large groups of people, the trail was beautiful and the walk into the canyon is indescribable. I loved hiking this trail because of how easy the downhill was. About halfway down there is a rest area with bathrooms and a beautiful view into the canyon.

We got to the bottom at about 10:00. From the Colorado River, Phantom Ranch is a mile walk. There are small campgrounds that you can stay at for the night if you need to. Phantom Ranch is a cute little ranch that has a diner in the middle of it. Unfortunately, you do have to reserve your place before you get to the ranch. Still, there is a little side door that sells food, gear, and refreshing drinks. Phantom Ranch was such a cute rest place.

We started our hike up at about 11:00. Before the Bright Angel Trail, there is a 2-mile period where you hike next to the Colorado River. This is a grueling and annoying part of the hike due to the sand and the ups and downs. Eventually, you take a hard left and begin the elevation gain. The Bright Angel trail is said to be a little over 9 miles. This trail mostly consists of switchbacks in the bright sun. Eventually, about halfway, you get to Havasupai Gardens. This is a beautiful rest area with bathrooms and pretty views. My dad and I stayed here for about 30 minutes to refuel with snacks and water. Our final hike up was upon us.

At about 3:30, we started the last part of our hike. It was a steep incline with switchbacks that caused an insane amount of blisters. This was by far the hardest part of the hike. My legs were soar and due to the elevation gain it was har to breath. Taking frequent breaks for water is incredibly important on the hike. Eventually, we made it out.

Although this hike was gruesome, hard, and insanely tricky, it was so rewarding. I had a great time hiking with my dad and I oved all the beautiful scenery. Afterwards, we met my mom and sister at a hotel and quickly ate burgers and shakes. Overall, I loved hiking these trails. 11.5 hours is crazy long but 18 miles is a great accomplishment.