As Good As It Gets!
If you like the outdoors, put this trip at the top of your bucket list! It's as good as it gets and it's one of the few places left where you can be completely disconnected - it was a rare treat to have no internet or cell service for a full week.
The scenery was amazing. Tons of great side canyons to hike and explore. It was really cool to learn about the history of the Grand Canyon's geology, botany, ancient inhabitants, early explorers and present challenges - so intriguing that I now have a new list of books to read and documentaries to watch.
The food was awesome...and not just by camping standards. I was amazed at the quality and variety of the menu and the love the guides put into every meal. The campsites were beautiful and pristine. If anyone has concerns about the toilets, privacy, etc. you have nothing to fear. The private outdoor toilet a.k.a. "loo with a view" will change your life! Ok, maybe not life changing but there were plenty of people on our trip that said they would love to build one at their house. Haha. It was super nice to show up with just your clothes and a pillow; the sleeping bags, cots, tents and camp chairs all worked out beautifully. Falling asleep under the darkest skies and brightest stars you've ever seen and waking up to the sun as it hits the canyon walls is as good as it gets.
It's hard to imagine a trip that you can enjoy with a big group of family or friends as much as this. The quality of time you spend together sharing such beauty, fun and adventure will develop or strengthen relationships more than anything else I can imagine.
Kudos to the Western River guides Newty, Lindsay, Leigh and Justin for being the best in the business. They took care of everything and made this trip as memorable as any we'll ever have!
