Bright Angel trail to South Rim finale

Day 9 (Day 5 of GC backpack) hiking out to the South Rim via the Silver Bridge & Bright Angel Trail. Shot above is of the Mule paddock near the river.

15km, 1332m gain. Sand, cobbles, wooden washbars requiring sometimes 10-12" of rise... we know how to party!
Crossing the Silver Bridge. Built in the late 60's it also carries the transcanyon pipeline from Roaring Springs to the South rim.
Mules won't cross as they can look down & see the river beneath their feet.




Mule train bringing freight down to Phantom Ranch. Everything from food to a new air conditioner. They also carry people but I think I'd rather walk... looked like a rough ride.







A big Freemont Cottonwood tree. Getting close to Indian Garden a favorite part of the hike. Unfortunately Moe is favouring one knee, not a good time for that!
Lunch at Indian Garden. Fixed Moe up with a knee brace & some Advil... I've had knee troubles in the past & it ain't no fun with a fat pack on & many more meters of elevation to go. In my concern for Moe I completely forgot about the spur trail to Plateau Point... Damn, oh well something for next time.


Three mile rest house.
Squirrels big enough to ride! We had been warned to watch out for these robbers at the campsites... they are bold. They don't ask... "I AM havinz your trail mix!!"
As we climbed we took many breaks for Moe to rest his knee as were another pair of backpackers who we kept leap frogging. We exchanged a few words of challenge every time. At the end one of the pair broke away to race to the finish. I should have given chase, I had the gas for a dash but opted to stay & grind out the finish.

You'd think we would have taken a photo at the Trailhead... somehow thoughts of showers & burgers prevailed over silly posing. $2 for an eight minute shower at Mather Campground... best part of finishing a long dirty backpack.