the Cost of Overnight Tours and Trips

I was a member of a group of eight people who scheduled a two night trip to the bottom of the Grand Canyon.

The cost, including meals and overnight sleeping accommodations was $495 plus I gave a $50 tip.

The trip had been arranged by one member of our group four months in advance. We paid the full amount of $495 thirty days in advance of the hike. We received very detailed instructions as to clothing to wear, water, medications, ruggedness of the climb, both down and back up the canyon, times of departure and expected return to the top, plus directions to the meeting point and times of departure.

Our guide was exceptional in his knowledge and willingness to help some of the "stressed" members in the group.

The food and sleeping quarters were better than expected, although we were so tired we would have slept on rocks.

The only part of the climb that was not too pleasant was the mules that kept walking the trail, although we expected them. The tour service had no control over this problem.

The whole experience was well worth the cost.

I would advise anyone thinking of doing this hike to be fully aware of the degree o f difficulty. It is not easy but is something that you will never forget. Pack as light as possible, but be sure to bring a digital camera and extra batteries.

I wish I had exercised on hills more prior to our trip to better prepare my knees for the hike.