A lot of people have been asking about where exactly we are going on our trip, so here is a link to google maps with the bulk of our route planned out. Each flagged city/park is where we plan to stay at least overnight. We are going to be staying with friends (thank you!!) in a few places, camping in the parks, and motel-ing it for the rest. We still aren't sure about the last leg of our trip, as far as where to stop when we come back to NYC from Sante Fe. The whole trip is going to be three weeks, from May 2nd-22nd.

I found out this weekend that we have to apply for a permit to hike to the bottom of the Grand Canyon. They don't want too many people on the trails and the camp sites at any given time, so they limit the number of permits they give out. Who knew so many people wanted to hike to the bottom. I don't remember the exact number but something like only 1/4 or 1/3 of the people who apply get approved. I sent in the application on Monday and it takes three weeks for them to respond, so hopefully we will hear back right before we leave. If they are full, we will hike as much as we can, but just aren't allowed to stay overnight. Cross your fingers!!