WOW!! We just hiked the Grand Canyon! Going down pretty easy - we set off at about 9, stopped loads to take in the views - they change every time you look. Still made it to the bottom for lunch. EASY! Even managed to find a bar down there, and sipped red wine under the stars. The way back up was somewhat more taxing... 10 miles and 5,000ft up. We were a little bit tired by the top, but still made it in just over 5 hours. A great experience that was only marred by snow, wind and rain at the top, and the fact that this and the altitude finally did for the van, which conkedo out as we were rushing to the ranger's office for our back country permit - so we had to run for it! Lucky we did all that training in Vegas... Anyway, while we were down the canyon, the van was in the mechanics, having been towed and diagnosed as having dodgy...everything. They patched up a couple of things and sent us on our way, so now everything is a bit slower, and more precarious! Keep your fingers crossed! X J & L