Thanks, Julius for the info. I guess I'll try to do a lot of online research. Anyone know if this will work? Arrive at South Rim and camp one night (Where?) Leave car(s)(Where?) Take 7:30 AM shuttle to North Rim arriving at noon. Have lunch somewhere then head down trail and camp one night at Cottonwood Campground. Next day hike down to Bright Angel Campground. The next day hike around near BA Camp. (Should I camp more than 2 nights here? Are there many day hikes in this area so that I would want to camp more nights here?) Next day hike up to South Rim. Camp one night at South Rim (Again not sure where. Can I park and leave my car(s) at a campground on South Rim?)
I'm glad you're thinking about the R2R. It is a must do.
If you're going to use the shuttle be careful. Our friends did not make it to the North side , using the 2PM shuttle until late , maybe 7PM.
If there's an earlier one, 7AM, it would be ideal. You can get dropped of at the Trail head , and hike to Cottonwood in one day. Steve mentioned that some camp sites have no shade. If you're there late, it may not matter.
Early start from Cottonwood will give you time to do Ribbon Falls, get to BA campground, and do the River trail loop . Start with the Black Bridge and return on the Silver Bridge.
We have not done other hikes from BA. I think one night at the bottom would be enough, unless you go with kids and the Ranger talks are a must for the little ones.
The 3rd day hike out and cut a notch in your belt.
I cant give any advice on Camping on the rim. We had a room with a shower.
Just think twice about what to take . Light is right.
I took a water filter that I did not use. Water on the way, and at Ribbon Falls, straight from the source, unfiltered.
Our tent was less than 3LBS, no sleeping bag,and if you get the meals at the Ranch, no stove needed.
I had a MSR Pocket Rocket and a titanium pot, we ate out of the bag and left the insulated mugs at home.
Foam pads will do, the ground is hot, unless you want more cushioning.
Our friends had 3inch thick air mattresses and they sweated against the pad.
Use a cooking scale and cut as much as possible. It will make the hike more enjoyable.
J
