The day before my birthday, my wife asked me to make a wish. I wished to hike a portion of the 50 Year Trail. As we entered the trailhead, a sign marking the 50 Year Trail caused a flashback to my youth. In 1966, on a Boy Scout trip, we visited the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. The site made a lasting impression on me. We hiked to the Colorado River where we camped for the night. We hiked out the next day. I was profoundly moved by the experience.
Many years later in retirement I moved to Utah’s Red Rock Country. I visited the North Rim of the Grand Canyon on several occasions. Thoughts of hiking to the river again were always present.
In 2016, I hiked down the South Kaibab Trail and lodged at the Phantom Ranch. The fifty year difference took its toll on my knees, but the pleasure of being in this magnificent wonder again was beyond description. My eyes swelled with happy tears. I was back with nature. And while my leg muscles ached, my soul was invigorated.
Five years later on the eve of another birthday, the 50 Year Trail continues to elevate my spirit.
