11/9 to 11/13 Grand Canyon: Camping at Havasupai Gardens

As a bit of background for 2024 trip (1) The Grand Canyon will have many trail and campsite closures during 2024 as they completely redo the water system https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/trail-closures.htm (2) Getting camping permits is always difficult and uncertain, and it will be even more so with these closures https://www.recreation.gov/permits/4675337. We will discuss the permit process, but in short, we will need to apply to enter the permit lottery 4 months prior to our planned visit (so we need to apply in late May for an October permit) (3) we are also considering the possibility of staying on the South Village rim (in a hotel) and do day hikes. People who want a challenge could hike down to the Colorado River and back as their day hike. But there are many other fabulous hikes that are not as challenging. (4) We will use this planning session to hear your thoughts and develop a consensus. One possibility that we can consider if we do not get a permit is show up a day before our planned camp outings and see if can get a "walk-up permit" (they become available if people cancel their permits a few days prior to the trip). If we cannot get a permit to camp, then we stay in a hotel and do day hikes. Something to consider.

Schedule for our 2022 and 2023 trips:   5 days

Day 1: Arrive at the South Rim and spend night in hotel on South Rim Village Day 2: Hike to Bright Angel campground via South Kaibab Trail (about 7 miles and 4,780 feet down; estimate 7 - 8 hours) Day 3: Pack up and hike up Bright angel trail to Havasupai Garden campsite  (about 5 miles and 1,300 feet up; estimate 6- 7 hours). Day 4: Hike to South Rim Village (about 4.5 miles and 3,040 feet down; estimate 7 - 8 hours) and spend night at South Rim. Day 5: To airport (but the trip might be shortened or lengthened depending on flight times and other add on side trips).