So, I Got to the Grand Canyon and Hated It
Yep. I said it. The Grand Fuckin Canyon and I was not in the mood for it’s shit.
You’d think standing at the edge of one of the most jaw-dropping sights on Earth would send me into some poetic, awe-struck trance. Nope. I was cranky, fried from driving, and instantly overwhelmed by the crowds, shuttle buses, and people who seemed to have zero awareness of personal space. Honestly, I couldn’t wait to be away from people.
Still, I dragged myself out onto the Rim Trail, just four miles to try and shake the funk. Didn’t totally work, but I’ll admit, the canyon had its moments. You can’t stare into that kind of vastness and stay completely grumpy. It’s like the rock formations are silently yelling, “Get over yourself, we’ve been here for millions of years.”
After the hike, I bailed on the crowds and headed to find a campsite.
Camping at Coconino Rim: A Little Peace, Finally
Now this, this was more my speed.
I scored a spot near the Coconino Rim. There was a lookout tower just 75 yards from where I set up camp. I took a long, glorious shower, lit a campfire, and just… chilled. No shuttle buses. No loud tourists. Just the sound of wind and my thoughts softening.
The night sky alone was worth the trip. Stars on stars. I exhaled for what felt like the first time that day.
South Kaibab Trail: Redemption Hike
Day two was a whole different story.
I woke up mentally lighter and decided to tackle the South Kaibab Trail down to Skeleton Point. I’d heard it was brutal on the way up, and I braced myself for the suffering. Honestly, I think I psyched myself out a bit too much, because it turned out to be… not that bad…
The views on the way down were absolutely bonkers. Layers of red and orange rock stretching out forever, sunlight bouncing off cliffs like some kind of ancient, disco ball. I stopped every ten minutes just to take it all in. Yeah, the hike back up was tough, but it didn’t break me. In fact, it felt kinda triumphant.
Halfway back up, I looked behind me, saw where I’d come from, and just started grinning like an idiot. That’s when it hit me: I didn’t hate the Grand Canyon. I just needed to meet it on better terms.
What I Took Home (Besides Dust and Sweat)
This trip was a solid reminder that even the most beautiful places can feel off if your head’s not right. And that’s okay. Sometimes the trail saves you. Sometimes the view doesn’t hit until you’ve worked for it.
I’ll be back but next time, I’ll give myself a beat to breathe, to reset, and maybe pack a little extra patience for the crowds. Or earbuds. Definitely earbuds.
