The Test: Camelback

Prior to hiking the Grand Canyon (yes, I've done it three times before), there is a "test" to pass. Camelback is a good way to get an idea of elevation change, carrying the backpack weight up said elevation, and endurance in heat. The idea is to hike up Echo Canyon, over and down Cholla. This isn't a long distance, just under six miles (which includes surface streets back to the car). The challenge is nearly the 1,500 feet up and then back down.

Echo Canyon is a steep trail requiring boulder hopping. Well, boulder hopping for the younger group. I did that years ago, but now it's more like boulder crawling with my older, short legs. Not sure the grandson thought I would make it, but I did. And he was patient with my boot-scootin' routine. I was impressed with his ability to navigate the steep grade without any trouble.

The view from the top is always gratifying. It is also surprising how limited the available space is at the top considering the number of people who traverse the mountain every day. 

The temperatures were around 90 degrees with full sun and yet some people didn't carry water, or only a single bottle. We carried our full Grand Canyon supply of water and were ready to share with anyone in need. We noticed a couple others doing the same. 

After a light snack and brief rest at the top, we ventured down the mountain via the Cholla Trail. Less rocky, a little longer so it is less steep, especially the last half of the trail. The picture has arrows pointing to various hikers along the Cholla Trail. This was the easiest part. The Cholla also has spectacular views of golf courses located at The Phoenician and The Royal Palms resorts.

Rather than going back up and over the mountain, we opted to walk surface streets back to Echo Canyon trailhead and our car. Temperatures were creeping into the 90s and my legs were stressed enough. I think the grandson could have done it so hats-off to him. He's totally canyon ready. I will work on the legs. That said, there are not the large boulders to climb over at the Grand Canyon. It is the distance (18 miles) and elevation (5,000 down/4,300 up) that are the challenges. We will be ready.