Hiking in the Grand Canyon: North & South Rims

This morning you will be picked up from Little America Hotel in Flagstaff to begin your journey to the North Rim of the magnificent Grand Canyon – this may be one of the world’s most iconic landmarks, but the North Rim of the canyon receives just 10% of the visitors as the South Rim, meaning you’ll often feel like you have the place to yourself. With an altitude of 8000 ft, the North Rim also enjoys a cooler climate that’s ideal for hiking. En route we’ll cross the Colorado River near Lee’s Ferry, where the Old Navajo Bridge (built in the 1920’s) is suspended 467 feet above the water where you'll have the chance to walk across. On arrival at the North Rim, check into your lodge then head into the Grand Canyon National Park. Fuel up over lunch, then hit the spectacular North Kaibab Trail. This challenging but rewarding hike will lead you through a diverse range of ecosystems – your leaders will point out fascinating plant life along the way. The trail leads to the Coconino Overlook, where you’ll come upon a truly remarkable view of the canyon. Return to your lodge post-hike to freshen up and enjoy the evening as you please.

Today is all about seeing the best of the North Rim. We'll drive to Angel’s Window and Point Imperial stopping along the way for several shorter hikes, with some of the most incredible views the Grand Canyon has to offer. If the group wants to add some distance, we may have the opportunity to hike one of the beautiful trails that winds its way through the coniferous forest along the rim.

There’s still so much of the Grand Canyon to explore, so say goodbye to the North Rim and drive on to the South Rim (approximately 4-5 hours). Upon re-entering Grand Canyon National Park on the east side, stop off at the famous Desert View Watchtower, built to resemble the Native American tower that once stood in its place centuries ago. The Desert View Drive then provides some jaw-dropping scenes as you make your way to the jumping off point for today’s hike along the Grandview Trail. The trail didn’t get its name by accident – on a clear day you can see for more than 100 miles from the top. First carved out by the native peoples of the Grand Canyon, the trail was expanded upon by miners in the 1890s, and relics of the mining days can still be seen today. Once today’s walk is done and dusted, take some time to put your feet up at your hotel, then head out to dinner at a historic restaurant perched along the canyon’s South Rim.

This morning we'll head out on the Bright Angel trail which offers a meandering descent into the Grand Canyon with amazing views along the way, not to mention some welcome amenities like water, bathrooms and shade available intermittently.  As you descend, your guide will explain the geological and ecological phenomena that surround you. There are two potential turn-around points which can make the hike 3 miles or 6 miles round trip. We'll enjoy a picnic lunch with a view better than any 5-star restaurant before starting our return hike to the rim. Tonight we'll am to catch the sunset on a short hike along the rim either before or after our meal.

Rise bright and early for your final day exploring the Grand Canyon, checking out of your accommodation before travelling to the beginning of the South Kaibab Trail. Descend along the spine of the spectacular Cedar Ridge and come upon sweeping panoramic views of the Grand Canyon – perhaps the best in the whole park. Be sure to look up as well as down as California Condors are often spotted around these parts. After your hike, it’s time to return to where it all began, Flagstaff. You can expect to arrive at around 5pm, at which point your adventure will come to an end. If you’d like to extend your stay here, just get in touch ahead of time and we can arrange additional accommodation (subject to availability).