starrsville,

Thank you for all the information. Might try your suggestion next time and it's good to be back on the forums.

Utahtea

We missed our Western expert. Glad things are going well for you.

Thanks once again Gilbert and TheWeasal for all of the food tips. The girls aren't big breakfast eaters and I'm sure will be too excited to eat much. But I wanted to have some idea of options.

I made a mental note Gilbert from your original post about extra apples for the mules. We'll be sure to pick some up with our other snacks.

Do the guides break up women and children into one group and men in another or is it strictly by group number?

I wish the trip were tomorrow!! I'm sure my family is too. I know they're tired of all my little tidbits of information and planning I keep talking about.

I have a journal all ready to takes notes for my first trip report when we get back. Although, there's so much wonderful information here I don't know that I could add much more.

Thanks again-
kargirls

kargirls,

Only the day trippers are separated into women / children in the first groups and then the men. Although, the last group of day trippers we saw leave had male & female, but I think they were a group from overseas.

There will be only one group of overnighters to Phantom Ranch. Usually the children will follow right behind the wrangler, then mom & dad will follow behind them.

There were only 2 others on the way down, but on the trip out there was a total of 7. At that time of year, it depends on whether you spend 1 or 2 nights at Phantom Ranch. Some of the people you ride down with may be spending 2 nights, or you may be the only riders. You can ask at Bright Angel when you check in for the ride how many others are going.

Both times we have been the last 2 riders (which I liked).

Don't forget to bring a small alarm clock (although they do have a digital clock in the cabins), and a small flashlight. There are lots of clean towells in the shower block.

Also, when they give you the bota (water) bag, make sure you use the lemon concentrate in it the night before to take away the yucky taste. Also, buy some Gookinaid beforehand (they also sell it at Bright Angel Gift Shop) to put in your bota bag. It's an electrolite replacement drink you mix with water.

If I think of anything else, I'll let you know, and if you have any more questions, don't hesitate to ask.

My DH wants to do the trip again next year!!!!
I hope your family gets at least half as much enjoyment as we did - if so, you'll have a blast.

Gilbert