The Scariest Mule Ride in America

So the day finally arrived that we had been planning for almost a year. We woke up this morning grabbed a quick breakfast and headed to check in. At this point our fear level was about a 2.

We met with the manager of the mule company and he discussed the next two days. He explained how to control the mule and to never let the reins drop and stay hydrated. He then explained that we would be getting on the mule and that that was our last chance to bail on the trip. Our fear level was probably at a 5.

We went to the bathroom which is where I resigned myself to the fact that we must do this and if I died, it would probably be quick!

We mounted out faithful steeds and were off. Mine mule, Matty and Lauren's Chisom seemed calm and ready for a day of work. On the first switchback, which had about a 900 foot drop, I began to shake like a rattler. My fear level was an 11...out of ten.

However, as we continued on our way we became more and more comfortable, just as long as we didn't look down. 

We stopped for a lunch of high protein, high salt snacks at a surprising lush stream and forested area and continued into the lower gorge which was far flatter and far hotter. 

We enjoyed our ride seeing miraculous rock formations and small streams until about the last 20-30 minutes. As we approached Phantom Ranch, we began to ascend the trail. This worried us due to the old adage of what comes up...

As we approached the bridge to the ranch, we noticed how high we were. We had to descend a set of switchbacks which were far steeper than any we had yet seen. Lauren's mule, who had a habit of tripping made this portion of the trip terrifying. My mule, who was very sure footed, was ok except for the fact that we were at such an angle that I felt I was going right over the edge into the Colorado River...after hitting about 1000 rocks. 

We trekked through a short tunnel and over the bridge, width of the entire Colorado and finally, arrive safely at the ranch. We were incredibly sore and our nerves were shot, but we really enjoyed ourselves. After laying comatose in our cozy cottage for an hour or so, we went down to the "crik" to sit in the water. 

We then visited our mule friends who were resting in their pen and headed to our steak dinner.

Although terrifying, if you get the chance you must do this trip. You will see amazing sights and an experience you cannot get anywhere else.