I’d love for readers of my book to negotiate the Grand Canyon for themselves, perhaps the farthest corners of the Canyon. Or maybe just the Bright Angel Trail. With careful planning, good equipment, respect for the Canyon, and knowledge of its wild nature, a reader could enjoy a long expedition. Or if that isn’t possible, then I’d be happy if you read my book simply as a good adventure story.
Backpacking on a remote trail can be an adventure or it can be an ordeal. A multi-day hike can inspire you or put you at risk. Jen Hogan, the first non-native woman to solo hike the entire length of the Grand Canyon in one shot (700 miles through winding, twisting trails), said it best: “The Grand Canyon will eat you alive the second you’re not paying attention. We are guests there. The Canyon is a raw, carnivorous place. If you love the Canyon and respect it [for what it is] you can potentially negotiate it. It’s a living, breathing, wild animal.”
What my hiking companions say…
“Now, when you or I say, ‘”‘The Canyon is calling and I must go,’ it’s not a joke. It’s truth.”
Jenelle Holm
“My new learns from your book: ‘”‘hoodoo water’ and ‘cairns.’ I had heard of such but had no context. Now I get it!”
Hayley Boehme
“Highlights, for me, were finding water on the Esplanade and cooling off under Deer Creek Falls.”
Doug Kallemeyn
A book full of secrets
Each Trail Has Its Own Story, 348 pages in paperback, looks back over 35 years of backpacking the maintained and unmaintained trails off both North and South Rims of the Grand Canyon. Journalism and journal-writing is in my blood. I took careful notes during each expedition – and my new book is made up of carefully selected, easy-to-read “best of the best” stories from all those trips.
On some trails, the memorable events were animal encounters. On other trails it was unexpectedly stepping back into history. There were harrowing situations when mother nature seemed to go on a rampage. Then there were times when I’d meet fascinating people deep in the Canyon who were unique, hardy, adventurous and semi-crazy. A little like me.
I included a lot of pictures, sketches, diagrams, and even cartoons to the book, to add some extra visual interest. I joke with friends who have purchased the book that they can get an introduction to the stories by just looking at the pictures and reading the captions.
I’m sometimes asked: “Is your book like a guidebook for the trails?” To which I answer: “It could be used as a guidebook, but it’s more like a collection of stories about each trail.”
If you appreciate the Grand Canyon, if you’re a Grand Canyon hiker, or if you know someone who is, this would be an ideal gift.
I’m selling the book for $26.95 plus shipping. If you’re interested, send me an email at SouthArizonaDave@Gmail.com. In your message, please mention two things:
– Whether you want the book within a week (First Class Mail) – or if slower is OK (Media Mail)
– Tell me your preference for payment: Venmo, ApplePay, PayPal, or an old-fashioned check in the mail. Any of those are OK with me.
When I get your message, I’ll respond according to your preferences.
Secrets of the Grand Canyon 