We boarded the “Hiker Express” @ 6 am to get to the trailhead. The express skips all the scenic stops along the rim and goes straight to the trailhead. Temperature on the rim was in the low 30’s. We headed down S. Kaibab Trail before 7. S. Kaibab Trail starts at 7,260 and passes Bright Angel Campground just across the Colorado River at 2,480 in 6.8 miles.

On the trail and bus we met several hikers who either were staying at the ranch or had arranged for duffle service so their gear was hauled by mule. Needless to say they were traveling lighter and much faster than we. The N. Kaibab trail continues on past to Roaring Springs and up to the North Rim where we hiked last week. By the time we arrived at camp after 1pm the temp was in the mid 80’s. We still had a little of our 7 liters of water left. At Phantom Ranch we checked out the canteen lemonade and a ranger program. Quiet hours at the campground started at 8pm so we were in bed early. It had nothing to do with the days activities.