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This was yet another outstanding adventure in Grand Canyon. We spent seven days and six nights in the canyon with three nights in primitive areas, one in threshold, and two in the corridor. We both have decided that we will stay away from the corridor as much as possible in the future. There is just too much to see and do off the corridor and away from casual hikers. While it is nice to sit in the canteen at Phantom Ranch and talk with other hikers or sip cold lemonade, there is nothing that matches the experience that can only be obtained heading off corridor and exploring some of the "roads less traveled".

This trip took place May 2nd through the 9th. We followed a route done previously by Rob at Wilderness Vagabond - he called it Grapevine Galleria of the Grand Canyon. I was looking for information about the area and found his trip report. Being the type that doesn't like to re-invent the wheel, and after reading his trip report, I felt that this was perfect for my next Grand Canyon adventure and a great way to get off the corridor. I had hiked down a couple of miles on the Grandview trail last October and since then I have wanted to go down to Horseshoe Mesa. Not being a person that likes to do things like everyone else I found Rob's route was perfect since it basically goes the opposite direction that most folks take.

We drove to Grand Canyon on April 30th and had a full day on the rim before we start our trek. On Monday, May 2nd we started the trip and followed the itinerary as planned - day one we headed down the South Kaibab trail and turned West onto the Tonto at the Tipoff to cross over to Indian Gardens – day two we headed down the Bright Angel trail to Bright Angel Campground – day three up the South Kaibab trail to the Tipoff, then East on the Tonto to Lonetree Canyon – day four continued on the Tonto to Grapevine Canyon – day five over to Cottonwood Canyon – day six up to Horseshoe Mesa – day seven hike out on the Grandview trail to Grandview Point.

Stay tuned for additional details and photos.