I really lucked out on my first attempt at a back country permit for the Grand Canyon. Below are some details. Any additional tips appreciated.
In order to maximize your success at getting a permit, conventional wisdom says:
...to go in the off season. But I couldn't. My work schedule could only accommodate a trip at the end of April/beginning of May. These are about the most difficult months to get a permit.
...to be flexible with your dates. Again, I couldn't be. I only had a 4 day window of opportunity for when I could start (end of April/beginning f May).
... to be flexible with your itinerary. Here I was as flexible as possible, but I really wanted at least 3 nights (I just didn't see flying across country for a two night trip) but didn't want more than 4 (short of time, food weight begins to be a problem - I'm already worried my body won't handle the 5000 ft elevation days). Plus I wanted to do a Hermit Loop and have at least one night by the Colorado River. I'm not sure if or when I would ever get this chance again so I am inclined to pack in as much as possible in this trip.
... to get your permit to the office between the 20th and the last day of the month to be considered on the first day of the month, 4 months before your hike starts. This I could do. I dropped the permit in the mail on the 19th.
As I said, I got lucky. Mine must have been one of the first permits pulled as I got a response on Dec 2 and a terrific itinerary (at least I think it is):
Day 1: Hike down the S. Kaibab Trail to Bright Angel Campground. I've reserved supper and breakfast at Phantom Ranch.
Day 2: Hike to Indian Garden Campground. Not a long hike or climb so I hope to have some time to explore the area around the river first - a few miles up the N. Kaibab trail (the Box) and/or Clear Creek Trail. Other suggestions? Is the river trail between the bridges worth taking up to IG rather than the direct route?
Day 3: Tonto Trail to Monument Creek Campground. A long dry day, but relatively flat. Could be hot depending on the weather. On May 1 it should be somewhere between 40 and 100 deg, right? After I get to the campground I might try the out and back to Granite Rapids if time, weather, and body permits. The side trip to Plateau Point adds a couple miles but might be worth it?
Day 4: Tonto Trail to Hermit Creek Campground. A very short day. Assuming my body hasn't completely failed me, I should have time to do the out and back trip to Hermit Rapids. I hear the hike down Hermit Creek and Hermit Beach are quite nice.
Day 5: Hike out via Hermit Trail. Will need to carry lots of water. At least the food bag should be mostly empty. How reliable in Santa Maria Spring? It would help to be able to get water 2/3 of the way up.