Grand Canyon - Bright Angel cabin
Sep 18th, 2001, 11:24 PM
#1
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Grand Canyon - Bright Angel cabin
My husband and I stayed at a Bright Angel rim cabin at the end of August. We had an incredible view of the canyon, even from the bathroom! Not all of the cabins had such a good view, so we were fortunate. We had booked about 5 months in advance.
The park didn't seem very crowded, which was surprising for that time of year. We saw only a few people while hiking the rim trail. Our morning hike down the S. Kaibab trail to Cedar Ridge was fantastic and is highly recommended; it wasn't as difficult as we had expected.
As for food, we had dinner both nights at the El Tovar and thought the food and ambience were both excellent. We also had breakfast there one morning.
The park didn't seem very crowded, which was surprising for that time of year. We saw only a few people while hiking the rim trail. Our morning hike down the S. Kaibab trail to Cedar Ridge was fantastic and is highly recommended; it wasn't as difficult as we had expected.
As for food, we had dinner both nights at the El Tovar and thought the food and ambience were both excellent. We also had breakfast there one morning.
Sep 19th, 2001, 07:16 AM
#2
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Laura:
My husband and I have a trip to Arizona scheduled for the end of October and are staying in a Bright Angel rim cabin ... the one with the wood burning fireplace ... is this the one you had? The person making the reservation said that not all cabins had good views, but this one was supposed to provide good views.
Can you tell me a bit more about your hike ... how long down the trail; how long back up? We would like to do a bit of hiking, but nothing too strenuous or long. Are good hiking sneakers OK, or do we need hiking boots for that trail?
Thanks.
My husband and I have a trip to Arizona scheduled for the end of October and are staying in a Bright Angel rim cabin ... the one with the wood burning fireplace ... is this the one you had? The person making the reservation said that not all cabins had good views, but this one was supposed to provide good views.
Can you tell me a bit more about your hike ... how long down the trail; how long back up? We would like to do a bit of hiking, but nothing too strenuous or long. Are good hiking sneakers OK, or do we need hiking boots for that trail?
Thanks.
Sep 22nd, 2001, 02:08 AM
#3
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Our cabin did have a fireplace, but it was too warm outside to use it. I wish that I could remember the cabin number. I think there were quite a few others with good views, though.
As for the hike, we didn't have many choices because the Bright Angel trail was closed while we were there. We only had tennis shoes and wanted to do a trail that was in decent shape (not too scary) so that left out the Grandview and Hermit. We started hiking the S. Kaibab about 6:45 am and it was nice and shady most of the way (of course in October you might welcome the sun!). The thing that surprised us the most about the hike was that it took less than half the "recommended" time. It took us about 45 minutes to reach Cedar Ridge and we sat around for at least half an hour, then hiked back up (which took about 1-1/4 hours, I can't remember exactly. We aren't terribly fast hikers but move along pretty well, stopping for photos and water fairly frequently. I was worried that my knee would get sore, but it was fine. My husband agreed that hiking up was actually a little easier on our legs than going down, or so it seemed. Next time we hope to go all the way to the bottom and spend the night, or perhaps take a raft trip.
Have a great time.
As for the hike, we didn't have many choices because the Bright Angel trail was closed while we were there. We only had tennis shoes and wanted to do a trail that was in decent shape (not too scary) so that left out the Grandview and Hermit. We started hiking the S. Kaibab about 6:45 am and it was nice and shady most of the way (of course in October you might welcome the sun!). The thing that surprised us the most about the hike was that it took less than half the "recommended" time. It took us about 45 minutes to reach Cedar Ridge and we sat around for at least half an hour, then hiked back up (which took about 1-1/4 hours, I can't remember exactly. We aren't terribly fast hikers but move along pretty well, stopping for photos and water fairly frequently. I was worried that my knee would get sore, but it was fine. My husband agreed that hiking up was actually a little easier on our legs than going down, or so it seemed. Next time we hope to go all the way to the bottom and spend the night, or perhaps take a raft trip.
Have a great time.
Sep 22nd, 2001, 07:44 AM
#4
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We hiked in the Grand Canyon a few years ago when our boys were 7 & 10. It was great. Good hiking boots are a must. I don't mean extravagent, unless you're going to be hiking regularly but there are good ones for adults around $50-75 and for the kids less. We used them all the time on our trip and we wear them in Miami, when it's cold (60's). There are lots of published tips on the necessary and recommended gear and attire for hiking. It will make it more pleasant. Light weight everything. We carried 1 back pack with light snacks. we all had fanny packs with water bottles (can't get enough water) A few emergency items (small and lightweight). If you're down a few miles and twist and ankle, there's no ambulance coming around to get you. YOu're definitely at nature's mercy. Hat, sunscreen, and loads of film in a lightweight camera. We went down 3 miles, which doesn't seem like much, but as incredible as the view and surroundings are, you're also tense because the path is narrow and the drop is fatal. I don't see anyone getting hurt there, you slip you die. Of course having little kids with me made me more anxious but you need to be in decent shape and careful. We didn't stay at Bright Angel but we ate dinner at El Tovar and it was so good. After hiking, that meal was good. The whole place is great. There are lots of websites for the Grand Canyon, and outdoor adventures that offer tips. Go to camping stores and learn about the different products out now. We've gotten good use out of our hiking supplies back at home. I use the fanny pack, water bottles on bike trips, at art festivals, etc....the investment has been helpful for other trips.
Sep 22nd, 2001, 07:50 AM
#5
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Laura, Why was the Bright Angel trail closed, do you know?
We made that hike our last trip, going as far as Indian Gardens, and like you, were surprised to find that it took us less than half the time suggested...and these doggies, at 58, are beginning to get along. We both run though, so are in reasonable condition to begin with, and that may be a factor. I'm embarrassed to say our 26 and 29 year old "kids", didn't fare quite as well. Neither are at a point in their lives when working out is something they have time for, and it showed. So...that said, let your own conditioning, not your age, be your guide as to what sort of a hike you can undertake.
Cheryl, a good lightweight pair of hiking boots are beneficial, though a nuisance to pack. The trail can be a little rocky and uneven and I was glad for my boots, as I have ankles that for some reason, turn easily. I thanked that extra support any number of times!
We too stayed in one of the Bright Angel cabins, and loved it. Perfect ambience for the Grand Canyon! Our's had no view at all--didn't matter, it was still wonderful to be right there!
We made that hike our last trip, going as far as Indian Gardens, and like you, were surprised to find that it took us less than half the time suggested...and these doggies, at 58, are beginning to get along. We both run though, so are in reasonable condition to begin with, and that may be a factor. I'm embarrassed to say our 26 and 29 year old "kids", didn't fare quite as well. Neither are at a point in their lives when working out is something they have time for, and it showed. So...that said, let your own conditioning, not your age, be your guide as to what sort of a hike you can undertake.
Cheryl, a good lightweight pair of hiking boots are beneficial, though a nuisance to pack. The trail can be a little rocky and uneven and I was glad for my boots, as I have ankles that for some reason, turn easily. I thanked that extra support any number of times!
We too stayed in one of the Bright Angel cabins, and loved it. Perfect ambience for the Grand Canyon! Our's had no view at all--didn't matter, it was still wonderful to be right there!
Sep 22nd, 2001, 08:28 AM
#6
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I shouldn't have been surprised but I was to see the group of tourist that tried to hike down without any preparation. Sandals, regular shoes, regular clothes, of course they were the ones blocking the trail by sitting (almost passing out) on the rocks. You can go down as far as you want but pace yourself, the hike up is always harder. I agree with the previous post. Your condition should be your gauge. You can see just as much hiking down 30 minutes as going 3 hours. The idea is to enjoy the canyon so there shouldn't be a rush, unless your there to do some training. Enjoy your trip, the memories will stay with you a long time. A bandana around the neck was helpful. YOu can wipe sweat, push your hair back with it, etc...I have the greatest photos of my 7 year old leading the way. We let him set the pace and it was great watching him manuever around the rocks and loose gravel, great memories.
Sep 30th, 2001, 03:44 AM
#7
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OliveOyl, you're so lucky to still be able to run at 58! I'm 45 and had to give it up last year; however I'm still pretty active.
The Bright Angel trail was closed in August because they had a big rainstorm that washed part of it out. I don't remember the date of the storm, but it took them awhile to get the trail back into usable shape.
The Bright Angel trail was closed in August because they had a big rainstorm that washed part of it out. I don't remember the date of the storm, but it took them awhile to get the trail back into usable shape.
Jan 15th, 2002, 06:41 AM
#9
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I will be staying at Bright Angel in June. Would like a view of the canyon. Last time we stayed in an Historic Cabin for $67 an had a nice view. This time were offere a rim cabin with a wood burning fireplace, but was told it was a smoking cabin. Although I know a fire place is burning there is a difference with cigerette smoke. If you have stayed in one and were not a smoker was it OK, or did it seem as though a smoker was truly there?
Feb 6th, 2002, 12:59 PM
#11
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Just got back from the Grand Canyon. What an amazing place. I don't know why I had never been there before. If you haven't you must go as soon as possible. It is worth the trip, expense or whatever it takes to get there.
Anyway, stayed at the Bright Angel in a cabin with fireplace. The cabin with the best view is 6146. Get this one and you will not be disappointed. Ours had a partial view and it was still very nice (don't remember room #). Ate bfast at El Tovar. Good, but not great. Belgian hot chocolate, however, was the best I've ever had. You must get this if you like hot chocolate. Dinner at the Bright Angel cafeteria was decent. Very reasonable prices, so if you can handle the sterile room, eat there if you're trying to save a little $$.
Walked the rim trail for 5 miles round-trip from the El Tovar. Really amazing hike/walk. Also hiked a little of the Bright Angel Trail but it was very icy so we didn't go far down. We also did a little of the Kaibab trail and it was not icy at all. Whatever you do, however, you must hike a little.
Weather was very cold, but sunny. I don't think it got above 39 degrees, but if you bundle up and keep moving, it's fine (really, and I'm from a warm state).
Finally, make sure you get to see the sunset. It is simply breathtaking. Enjoy!
Anyway, stayed at the Bright Angel in a cabin with fireplace. The cabin with the best view is 6146. Get this one and you will not be disappointed. Ours had a partial view and it was still very nice (don't remember room #). Ate bfast at El Tovar. Good, but not great. Belgian hot chocolate, however, was the best I've ever had. You must get this if you like hot chocolate. Dinner at the Bright Angel cafeteria was decent. Very reasonable prices, so if you can handle the sterile room, eat there if you're trying to save a little $$.
Walked the rim trail for 5 miles round-trip from the El Tovar. Really amazing hike/walk. Also hiked a little of the Bright Angel Trail but it was very icy so we didn't go far down. We also did a little of the Kaibab trail and it was not icy at all. Whatever you do, however, you must hike a little.
Weather was very cold, but sunny. I don't think it got above 39 degrees, but if you bundle up and keep moving, it's fine (really, and I'm from a warm state).
Finally, make sure you get to see the sunset. It is simply breathtaking. Enjoy!
