We -- Christin, Lexi and Sunny -- set out to attempt the R2R2R.alt in glorious late October conditions. We started on the North Rim shortly after 2am, onsighted N Bass Trail in the dark (not easy), made it to the river shortly after first light and had a smooth crossing. S Bass is buttery and fast compared to N Bass; the main issue for us was heat and managing our water. After tagging the South Rim we returned to the river at ~3:30pm, crossed back to the north side, and started the slow and tedious ascent back up to the trailhead. Even after having descended N Bass a few hours earlier, navigating the trail on the return trip in the dark was a challenge. All in all -- a beautiful day with near-perfect conditions. The river crossing was smooth on account of low, warm water and a draught summer without any monsoon. In different conditions, it is easy to imagine that the crossing could be terrifying. We carried two wetsuits, swim buoys, and a packraft between the three of us which added an element of safety.
This route is not for the faint of heart, nor is it fast (N Bass is a lot of very slow bushwhacking)... but it is a spectacular adventure for the well-prepared. Video & more stories may follow in due time.
11/13/20 Runners World: https://www.runnersworld.com/runners-stories/a34618505/sunny-stroeer-lexi-miller-christin-douglas-grand-canyon-r2r2r-alt-female-fkt/in
Comments
? epic work ?