Winter Grand Trip, 1st or 2nd Half?

[Steve Kahn]

so i got an invite for a winter grand trip leaving late January.

can't handle the full trip, thinking of half.

any recomendations on first or second half?

was thinking second, only because it will be easier to hike down than up....is lava on the second half? better whitewater on first or second? will there be any kind of noticable temp change (warmer lower?)???

will be kayaking, with wife in duckie and/or on raft....

any thoughts/advice appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

S