This spring, Kathy Flint and Rebecca Ruegg Cowan hiked down the South Rim of the Grand Canyon to Phantom Ranch for a 3-day/2-night adventure. They descended the South Kaibab (7.3 miles, elevation change of 4,714 feet)Â and returned via the Bright Angel trail (9.9 miles, elevation change of 4,314 feet). Their group of 4 stayed at Phantom Ranch, a remote lodging with a rich history dating back to 1922.
This hike was the result of nearly two decades of discussion between Kathy and Rebecca in addition to several months worth of planning, training, and some luck in obtaining lodging and meals at the bottom in a lottery-style selection process for Phantom Ranch.
When asked about the experience, veteran hiker, Kathy shared of her 9th visit down, “It was unique, as they all have been. This particular trip challenged me personally due to temperature extremes (ranging from the low 40s to 100 degrees), limited water supply, encountering a rattlesnake, and walking with first-time Canyon hikers. I appreciated seeing everyone complete the hike and enjoy the journey as much as I have each time.” First-time hiker, Rebecca said her experience was “Awe-inspiring! I was astonished by the deep sense of connection â with nature, hikers from around the world, and myself â I found within the depths of the Grand Canyon. There is an inherent sense of adventure in exploring such a vast and rugged landscape. Every turn presented a new view and challenge. I am incredibly thankful to Kathy for leading me through my first Grand Canyon adventure and its challenges. Her support and guidance made all of the difference.”
“Despite the hardship, the Grand Canyon provides a remarkable testament to the power of humanity and kindness. We encountered numerous moments of ‘hiker magic’ when strangers would band together to support each other.
Acts of teamwork, generosity and camaraderie not only enhanced the hiking experience but mitigated some of the inherent challenges of hiking in such a rugged and remote environment. We were reminded of Goodman Campbell’s core values- integrity, respect, teamwork, excellence, balance, communication, and sustainability throughout our journey.”– Rebecca Ruegg Cowan
Tips for Future Hikers from Kathy:
- Thereâs no such thing as overtraining
- Do as many stairs as you can
- Be sure to have boots/shoes that are well broken in
- Walking sticks will save you
- It is very much a mental exercise; the hardest part is keeping your focus and continuing to put one foot in front of the other
- Be prepared for extreme heat and plenty of switchbacks
- Most importantly, just enjoy the walk in the park
Prioritizing wellness is an important goal of the the Goodman Campbell team, and Kathy and Becky accomplished this by hiking the Grand Canyon. Hiking the Grand Canyon combines a physical challenge, adventure, stunning landscape and a deep sense of wonder and discovery. Kathy shares, “It will be an experience that stays with you for years to come.”
