On Foot: Grand Canyon Backpacking Stories

Edited by Rick Kempa

On Foot

Grand Canyon Backpacking Stories

Twenty-seven tales of adventure, discovery, danger, and deep solitude await readers of this first-ever anthology of essays devoted to the Grand Canyon backpacking experience. In it, novice canyon hikers express their wide-eyed wonder, while veteran canyoneers reflect on how their lifelong relationship with the place has shaped their character and outlook.

Rangers, trail crew workers, scientists, and trail guides weigh in with their unique perspectives. Whether they are writing from the corridor trails, the backcountry trails, or the vast canyon wilderness, these writers offer authentic, close-up views of what it is like to be afoot on particular days in particular places beneath the rim.

Included in this collection is Kris Rugg’s essay about hiking up the South Kaibab Trail from Phantom Ranch with only the light of the full moon to guide their way.