[sscates]

My wife, son and I are planning on doing a 3-4 day hike in the Grand Canyon, starting from the South Rim the beginning of April. Although I've been to the Grand Canyon a couple times, I've never ventured from the North or South Rim. We are looking to make a great trip together, as our son is heading off to college soon after graduation in June (nominated to the AF Academy, not accepted as of yet).

We are all experienced hikers/backpackers, having done overnight trips in the Sierras and local overnights in Idylwil. We have excellent equipment, so we just need some advice from people who have done something similar for trail selection.

I've got a book of all the trails, I'm thinking something of a loop, not an out and back and don't want to stay in any campgrounds. We will get a backcountry permit to camp by ourselves. I know that we will see people on the trail, but really want to have peace and quiet for as much time in the evening as possible. I really can't even imagine going to one of the bungalow camping sites with a hundred people in it.

I appreciate any and all advice. We will be flying into Grand Canyon Airport via a small plane. Steve