In an awe-inspiring feat of hiking determination, a 92-year-old recently shattered records with his rim-to-rim footwork. Becoming the oldest person to conquer the Grand Canyon, Alfredo Aliaga Burdio set a new history in adventure endurance. But that was not all of his audacious trips, with plans for yet another trekking comeback!

Remarkably, despite spanning life-long years, the senior hiking enthusiast’s love for the Grand Canyon was not a one-off event. Hailing from Berlin, Germany, this tenacious adventurer traversed its challenging terrains on multiple occasions, that too in the company of his late wife, Ingrid. Fueled by nostalgia, his recent trip saw a poignant journey, retracing the paths he once crossed with his beloved partner.

Hiking senior seizes victory with ageless resilience

Setting his sights on an ageless goal, Alfredo’s hiking quest for the record began to take shape during a four-day traverse of the canyon. Initiating the program with his son in October 2022, he mentioned feeling inspired by the legacy of John Jepkema, who was the previous record holder.

After finding his accurate opportunity to make a mark on hiking trails, Alfredo embraced a hard-hitting routine, training daily with an average of 12 km (8 miles). While he spent the entirety of January in regular practice sessions, the aged adventurer recalled preparing for this tour of a lifetime.

However, while initially scheduled for May 2022, his anticipated hiking attempt faced obstacles in trail closures. Provoked by heavy snow and damage from meltwater, Alfredo’s plans saw a sudden twist but, admirably, failed to deter his passionate spirit.

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Recalibrating his hiking strategies, the senior trekker then opted for the South Rim, traveling along the routes of Phantom Ranch. Winning the oldest hiking victor’s title, Alfredo recently shared his secret to a healthy life, rooted in simple habits that he adopted at the age of 76.

In a candid take, the senior adventurer expressed his motto, stating, “Think of the next step and the next, and not how far,” as he further added, “Then it is not so overwhelming and very doable.”

Seasoned ascender shares details from a prolonged trip

While his consistent training paid dividends, Alfredo emphasized feeling stronger and far more prepared than during his previous trip. As his recent hiking escapade took its course at dawn from the North Rim, he recalled witnessing a breathtaking sunrise at the Coconino Overlook.

Before confronting its arduous descent, Alfredo remembered grappling with steep terrain but remaining persistent. Taking strategic breaks to replenish his strength with food and electrolytes, the senior ascendant defied conventional norms like never before.

As the hiking enthusiast was recognized by many others on the trail, his extraordinary endeavor spread like wildfire on social media. With support and camaraderie propelling him forward, Alfredo seemingly bolstered his spirits throughout the tour.

After a 34-hour odyssey, with 21 hours dedicated to hiking, Alfredo completed his monumental title on October 15, 2023. Accompanied by his daughter and nine-year-old grandson, this trip also saw the Tucson Fire Department bestowing him with an honorary membership. 

With Alfredo Aliaga Burdio looking ahead for potential new hiking records like conquering Aconcagua, Chimborazo, or Cotopaxi, he also planned a return. Aiming for a less pressurized hike with his son’s family, he now has his eyes set on another victory over the Grand Canyon, hoping to come back in May 2024.

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