Photo Illustration: "Fresh Snow" by Brian Lane

Back Home (and getting back into the proverbial saddle)
I arrived back to our Sedona home last week, just ahead of a wonderful Arizona winter storm. I have been away since mid-September helping with family matters back in central Massachusetts. Thanks to all who sent condolences and kind thoughts. They have been much appreciated.

Now it's time to get ready to go into the canyon next month. After being unable to get out and hike much in the snowy New England winter it will be nice to get back into better physical condition - the canyon often serving as my motivation. I especially love the winter months inside the Grand Canyon! It is so quiet in January and February. So different from the throngs of people that will arrive by mid-March and into April when the moderate temperatures entice spring breakers to venture throughout its depths. Winter brings its own special kind of peace to the canyon.

Last year I reserved a cabin (thirteen months in advance) at Phantom Ranch for President's Day and will be hiking down with one of my best friends from back in Massachusetts, John Ducasse. We grew up just a few houses away from each other, and we're the same age, so we high schooled together and wreaked minor havoc upon the populace in the little hamlet of North Brookfield together growing up. We've done lots of hiking and backpacking together, and it's always great to spend some time with an old (and getting older) friend.

In Other News...
On the fifth of January Park Rangers found the body of a lone male about 300 feet below a point called The Abyss along Hermit Road. The cause of death and the identity of the individual have yet to be ascertained.

Remember that the backcountry permitting system will be changing as of February 1st, 2010. Those wanting permits that become available four months prior must submit their request in writing - individuals can no longer receive a permit in-person at the Backcountry Information Center for trips starting four months out. All requests for permits must be submitted either by mail, fax, or in person, but they will be processed by random draw beginning at 5:00 p.m. on the 1st of the month for any trip beginning four months out. For example on February 1st, 2010 they will process permits for any overnight trip inside the canyon whose start date is in the month of June, 2010. See my post of November 30th for a link to more complete information.

Icy Trails...Remember too that anyone venturing inside the canyon during these winter months should be wearing cleats or crampons to avoid a slip and fall where snow and ice has accumulated near the rim (top) of the canyon. This ice can remain present until late March. Always check with the Backcountry Information Center for trail closures and updates before going into the canyon.

Hike Smart & Have Fun!
Brian