Up and Out

We started ascending the North Kaibab trail at approximately 8:30am in 101 degree heat.  Each of us still feeling strong.  The beginning part of the North Kaibab trail is quite flat so the thought was to continue at a light jog whenever the trail allowed it to be done safely.  We continued to consciencely take sips of water and electrolites every 15 minutes with eating 250 calories at the top of the hour and a GU energy pack or snack on the half hour and a salt pill approx every 1-2 hours.  At this point, I was falling behind in my calorie intake and I knew I was not drinking enough to stay fully hydrated.  Tommy had already gone to the bathroom twice and I had yet to go once.

5.5 miles down the trail, I hit a wall.  At this time we are at Ribbon Falls, the trail is flat, and there is NO light jog left in me.  I am feeling sick to my stomach and I am light headed.  I have officially fallen behind on my hydration; though I had been making an effort to consume more water and electorlites.  I take another salt pill, snack on jerky as I am hiking, and take a GU energy gel.  The chocolate GU, which I normally love, was so close to coming back up that I'm not sure I will appreciate the chocolate GU ever again.  I'm feeling slightly like a sissy girl but.  However, I also realize this is the point of the hike that it is imperrative to listen to what your body is telling you and swallow some pride.

I continue hiking...