I’ve been working in the GCW office for a few months now and have been learning the ropes as I go. Thanks specifically to my amazing co-workers Lindsay and Sarah for getting me up to speed on trip logistics, FAQs, the reservation system and just about every small detail you could think of.

I’m going on my first-ever river trip in early April and I couldn’t be more excited. It’s a 7-Day Lower Canyon motorized trip that starts with a hike in to Grand Canyon. Like most of you, I’ve had plenty of questions about getting ready and have been over and over the trip info packet. My first large purchase was the Kelty Redwing 44 liter backpack to carry all my gear for the hike in. I’ve been testing it out and it seems like it’ll be a great pack.

Packing for my first Grand Canyon Whitewater trip, everything from river sandals to a headlamp.

A big thing imparted to me by my fellow office mates was that most people bring way too many clothes. For my 7-day trip, I’m bringing one pair of convertible hiking pants, one pair of shorts/swim trunks and just a few long sleeve T-shirts.

Because it might be a bit chilly, I’m planning on stowing away some long underwear, a fleece, a beanie and even light gloves. A few things on the packing list that I took note of were a shoulder strap for my water bottle, a spare pair of sunglasses and two carabiners. Definitely things that I would have never thought to bring but was glad I saw them in the list.

I’ve got a Belknap Grand Canyon River Guidebook and have been looking through it feverishly, getting excited to see the sights first hand. It is amazingly inspirational to see the quotes from John Wesley Powell and the historic photos. I’ve also been listening to the audio book of The Emerald Mile by Kevin Fedarko which gives some amazing human history of the canyon.

Like most all of you, I can’t wait to get on the river for the first time and will be sure to keep you updated with some stories of my adventure!