HDT Day 36: Zero Day in Kanab

Daily Miles: 0, Total Miles: 489.6

I looked out the window this morning and it was raining although I think better weather is coming.

The first order of business was to hike to the BLM Visitors Center and pick up my Paria Canyon – Vermillion Cliffs Wilderness permit for May 13-15. I had reserved these days months ago. This 80 some miles add-on will reconnect to the HDT (and AZT) near Jacobs Lake. The ranger asked if I had a flotation device to float my pack. Lower Buckskin Gulch, in the slot canyon before Paria Canyon, is probably going to be chest deep. I had a garbage bag that might do in a pinch. But thinking about it later, maybe I could float the pack on my NeoAir mattress and push it in front of me?

I might as well try “The Wave” walk-in lottery before hitching out of town on Monday morning. In the remote chance I am successful, the permit would be for Tuesday – perfect timing. The lottery usually attracts 100 participants for ten daily hiking slots. BLM only allows 20 people total on a daily basis. The fine for getting caught without a permit starts at $1,000.

I also called the Grand Canyon Backcountry Office to check the condition of upcoming Tapeats Creek below Saddle Canyon. At this time, the NPS considers the creek to be impassable and at peak runoff. The best alternative appears to be a longer road walk from the North Rim to the Bill Hall TH at Monument Point. This trail then drops steeply down to Thunder River, bypassing the hike down Tapeats Creek.

I managed to find a few replacement tent stakes for those I seem to have lost in mud or deep sand.