So, here I sit at the Backcountry Info office waiting until 8:00 to find out if I can get a permit to camp at Cottonwood campground tonite - it is part way up the north trail. But, if none are available, I met two great guys from Dallas that are camping at Bright Angel campground at the bottom. They have a permit for 3 but one could not make the trip and they'll let me camp with them! Yet another example of wonderful people in the world. I'll let you know.