RIM TO RIM
Price
$1250 per hiker
Duration
4 days/3 nights
RIM to RIM
4
3
DIFFICULTY
The Rim to Rim hike is by far the most sought after bucket list hike in the park, if not the world. The hike in the fall even more popular due to the cooler temps.
This amazing backpacking trip will take you through millions of years of history and mind blowing beauty. We'll spend 4 days making our way on trails created by Indigenous Tribes, later improved by pioneering miners, and then the National Park Service easily navigable trails we have today. The trails will take us beneath staggering rock formations, pass breathtaking waterfalls, and into 360 panoramic views that will leave you mesmerized.
Your guide will delight you with the history of the Native American Tribes of the area, and the pioneering miners and entrepreneurs that later moved to the canyon. We will show you historic Indian sites and other places that most do not get to see. To top it off we will prepare you delicious food including an authentic Navajo dinner that no other companies offer.
ITINERARY
Day 1
6.5 mi 4200 ft descent
You will meet your guide at the North Rim to orientate you with your packs and trekking poles (BYOG will meet and divide food). We’ll then begin the descent down the North Kaibab trail with short rest stops along the way including; The Coconino Overlook where we’ll take our first wide-angle trail view of the beautiful adventure you’re about to embark on, Supai Tunnel Rest House, and the beautiful Manzanita Rest Area where we’ll get our first up close, and personal if you’d like, encounter with the refreshing springs and creeks of the Grand Canyon. We’ll then continue our journey a short distance farther to Cottonwood Campground where we’ll set up camp and begin to process the amazing environment. Enjoy the evening with our first night of amazing colors changing amongst the glistening Grand.
Day 2
7.7 mi 1240 ft descent
We’ll eat a tasty breakfast with sunrise and then get our gear situated for the descent to Phantom Ranch and Bright Angel Campground. On the way, we’ll take some time for a short hike to the spectacular Ribbon Falls. After Ribbon Falls we’ll depart on our trek to Phantom Ranch through the Notorious “The Box”. Our guide will make sure, no matter what time of year, to find us the best-shaded spots for some rest, and creek access, along the way. When we arrive at Phantom Ranch we’ll cheers our success with the world-famous Phantom Ranch lemonade, rest for a few minutes, and then make the short walk to Bright Angel Camp, where we’ll set up camp and enjoy lunch. We’ll spend the rest of the day in refreshing Bright Angel Creek, viewing the local wildlife, taking a hike down to the river to view pueblo ruins, dipping our feet in the Colorado River, and walking the historical “Black Bridge”. Topping the day off with a delicious dinner from either Phantom Ranch or our amazing camp chef/guide.
Day 3
5 mi 1300 ft ascent
After some morning good tasting hiking food, we’ll hit the trail early for the first ascending hike. Crossing Silver Bridge, then trekking next to the mighty Colorado River itself for several miles. If we’re on good pace and patrons desire, we’ll head down to the river rest beach for a final foot dip in big river. If not, we’ll take a pit stop at River Rest House, and enjoy some towel dipping in Garden Spring Creek to rest up for a bit before the notorious Devil’s Corkscrew. After tackling Devils’ Corkscrew we’re in the home stretch to camp for our first ascent. We should arrive at Indian Garden Campground with plenty of time to relax around Garden Springs Creek, do some exploring, or for those interested in taking a short hike to some nearby historic sites. After our day activities, for an early dinner, your guide is going to prepare our authentic Navajo dinner (No other companies do this). After dinner, we’ll head out for a nice hike to Plateau Point where we will witness some of the most spectacular views over the Colorado River, followed by a jaw-dropping Grand Canyon Sunset.
Day 4
4.5 mi 3040 ft ascent
Early rise for our final ascent, we’ll enjoy a quick breakfast, pack it up and start our way up. Not in a hurry to miss any of the possible wildlife up for their morning walks, which The Big Horn Sheep are quite often out on. We’ll steadily make our way up Bright Angel Trail the Havasupai first cut, and later pioneer Ralph Cameron made easier for mining (tourism). On the way, we’ll take rest stops at the usual 3-mile, and 1.5 mile rest stops. We’ll also stop at ancient Pictograph sites and dinosaur tracks that the majority of people walk right by because the unmarked, and the unknowing eye cannot catch them. We’ll get to the top with smiles, hugs, and memories that will last a lifetime.
DETAILS
Is this hike for me?
Many companies will disagree with us here, but yes, we think that with proper preparation most are capable of doing this hike. Many companies are not led by a notable fitness trainer/experienced hiker, either. If you have ANY concerns with your ability to complete this hike, please reach out. We can provide you with training programs to help with your hiking stamina, and routines to help with any current or anticipated joint (knee) problems. With that said, this trip should not be taken lightly, it is very physically demanding.
What will we eat?
Our guide will provide you will 3 meals a day and snacks for the trail. Every Dinner will be a specially prepared hot meal including a meal you won’t get with anyone else, a delicious hot and fresh Navajo Taco. Please notify us of any dietary restrictions or food allergies.
What Gear will be supplied?
What gear do we need? You will need the below gear. BYOG (Bring Your Own Gear) if you already possess the below-listed equipment. If BYOG we recommend UL gear, we can also arrange a partial BYOG. The brand name listed is what we use. Backpack - Osprey Tent - Big Agne Sleeping bag - Synthetic Fill (BYOG a down bag is lighter) Sleeping Pad - Big Agnes or Kelty Trekking Poles - Black Diamond Eating utensils Cooking Stove and Supplies* First Aid Kit* *Only one set of these is needed and will be carried by the guide and distributed in
What do I need to bring?
Water bottle(s) or Bladder Headlamp “Broken-in” Hiking Boots/Shoes Rain Gear Personal Hygiene Products, Toiletries Sunscreen, hat, neck coverage (cooling towel) You will receive a downloadable .pdf with a packing list for your trip. It will include things such as recommended water carry capacity, and what temperatures to expect.