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We are heading out for one night this weekend and planned on doing Reavis Ranch from Roger's Trough TH. We have friends that would like to go with us and they have never backpacked. We have done the trail a few years back and aren't worried about it but we are starting to wonder if this is going to scare off our friends from future backpacking. Is Reavis Ranch too much for a first time backpack? Any suggestions for an easier hike? They have read multiple trail descriptions and say it looks fine. Thanks.

It's not that difficult from there, not very long and just one medium-sized hill. I think it's a great first-time backpack.

sweet...thanks for easing my mind. I don't remember it being awful...and we did the side trip to the ruins on the way out there.

Doing it from the north side is pretty easy as well. I took a first time backpacker that route this spring and he was totally fine.

Tough_Boots wrote:Doing it from the north side is pretty easy as well.

Mrs. big_load's second backpacking trip was from the north side. However, her first backpack was South Kaibab to Phantom Ranch, back the next day via Bright Angel, so she thought Reavis Ranch was pretty easy.

Just take it slow at the climb, it's a good distance for first timers, watch that they don't pack too much.

Well we had a great time but they did not listen and packed way too much...which lead to a really heavy pack...but they made it and want to do it again! Of course, with their own gear and lighter weight packs

Congratulations to them and to you! The next time a newbie accepts good advice on how much to pack will be the first. I'm glad they enjoyed it well enough to keep at it.

big_load wrote: The next time a newbie accepts good advice on how much to pack will be the first.

Very well said, and oh, so very true!

I haven't backpacked in years, but judging from our "needs" we will have to rethink things a bit. All this crap for two night car-camping:

@paulhubbard
the shower's a nice touch.. two nights!??! haha!