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I wanted to share photos from a recent Grand Canyon trip. We spent 11 days long-boating the canyon without raft support. Though the trip was in January the weather was great. Without rafts we were easily able to cover the miles and have plenty of time for hikes. We managed to hike to the rim and back in a day and spent another going to Mooney Falls. Plus, we were able to hit many of the traditional hikes: Nankoweap, Tapeats to Thunder River, Deer Creek Narrows, Matkatamiba, Elves Chasm, and Bass. The trip was fun, inexpensive and much easier to manage with only 11 days versus 18-24.
Winter is a great time to explore the Canyon. We had highs in the 50’s and lows in the 30’s. Our high water days were 17,000 and low water around 12,000. Living out of a sea kayak for 11 days wasn’t a problem. Even though we had tons of warm clothes packed there was enough room for extra food, fire pans and liquor for cocktail hour.
With the new permit system the rangers are having trouble giving launch dates away. Crazy as it sounds there are off-season dates no one is claiming. The new lottery system is easy to navigate. Returning from this trip I applied for a March date in 2009 and scored it with only one chance.
The new Dagger Green Boat will be perfect for this style of trip. It has more volume then most 15 foot sea kayaks, paddles better, and is easier to load gear into.
If I can help anyone plan a self support Grand Canyon trip please shoot me an email. This style of trip is a hoot and the Grand doesn’t have to be a once in a lifetime trip.
Jeff
P.S. There are a few TVF entries before the Grand Canyon information. Just keep scrolling down and you’ll find it.
http://tvfkayaking.blogspot.com/ |
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tvf and Grand Canyon story and pics New 
BoaterTalk 
