The Atlantic Magazine in Audio Mail by Mule
May 8, 2025
Discover the fascinating journey of mail delivery to Supai, an isolated village deep in the Grand Canyon. Follow a dedicated postal worker as he maneuvers an eight-mile trek with a mule train, highlighting the commitment to remote communities. Explore the rich history of this unique postal route and the evolving challenges brought on by changing government policies. This engaging narrative celebrates the spirit of logistics and the importance of connection in the most unexpected places.
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Supai's Mule Mail Journey
- Mail delivery in Supai relies on a mule train navigating 16 miles through the Grand Canyon's cliffs.
- This route remains the last USPS mule mail delivery in the U.S., combining horsemanship and logistics.
USPS's Rural Commitment
- USPS guarantees universal mail access beyond profitable urban routes via a legal monopoly.
- Supai relies entirely on the USPS mule train for groceries, essentials, and medicine delivery.
Charlie Chamberlain's Route Trials
- Charlie Chamberlain moved to Supai in 1973 and was trained by his wife’s uncle to deliver mail.
- He rode through harsh weather and terrain, facing heat, icy switchbacks, and rattlesnakes.