Day 4: Clear Creek campsite to Bright Angel Campground
Day 4: Clear Creek campsite to Bright Angel Campground, 8.7 miles, 1350’ elevation gain/2450’ elevation loss
Today we retraced our steps on the Clear Creek trail back to Bright Angel Campground. Although it was ground we had already covered, it was a nice hike back and a chance to see views in the other direction and in different light. I especially liked looking at the South Kaibab trail as before this trip I had not seen it from this vantage point. I knew it was supposed to be warmer on this day so I got an early start to get as many miles done as I could before it got too hot. I stopped for pictures here and there, but did not take any breaks until I got to Phantom Ranch. I made pretty good time so after grabbing a campsite at Bright Angel Campground, I spent most of the day at Phantom Ranch drinking Arnold Palmers, chatting, and watching all the hot and tired runners come through. Including Steve! I knew I would possibly see him on Saturday, but was surprised to see him coming down the North Kaibab trail - I didn’t know he was planning a R3. He and his running partner looked pretty beat - it was definitely hot out there! We eventually made our way back to our campsite and had a pleasant evening before going to bed early, planning on another early start tomorrow for our dayhike to Ribbon Falls.
A view our Clear Creek campsite below
First light in the canyon
Clear Creek Trail sunrise
Yucca along the trail
Clear Creek Trail sunrise
Yucca
Clear Creek Trail
Clear Creek Trail
Clear Creek Trail
Ladybug
Ragleaf bahia (I think?)
Traversing the cliffs
A peek at the South Kaibab trail across the river
A bee in the prickly pear bloom
The South Kaibab trail, Silver Bridge, and River Trail