What you get on this adventure: Experienced, medically-trained, Wilderness First Responder hiking guides with extensive knowledge of the area 5, 6, or 7-day backpacking trip in the Grand Canyon (depending on the itinerary you choose) Hotel accommodation in Kanab or Tusayan pre and post trip (double occupancy—inquire about single occupancy) Trailhead transport from and to Kanab or Tusayan Lightweight backpacking tents (unless you prefer to bring your own) Team cooking, camping, and first-aid equipment Breakfasts and dinners on the trail (possible to accommodate dietary restrictions) Water purification and/or water resupply Satellite messenger communication in case of emergency Human waste bags (where required) Pre-trip gear & training advice (as desired) Campsite fees and overnight permits Trekking poles What’s not included: Transportation to Arizona Lunches on trail Guide gratuities — optional

How fit do I need to be?

All of the best Grand Canyon backpacking tours are suitable for avid hikers with excellent cardio levels. As you’ll be hiking for 8-12 miles (13 to 19 km) per day for several days in a row, you must be in great shape. Keep in mind that you’ll also be carrying a +35 lbs (+15 kg) backpack, doing up to 5,000 ft (1,524 m) of vertical ascent per day. The terrain can be rough and very steep at times, so good physical fitness is paramount. Due to the significant elevation changes, you should also prepare for extreme temperature swings and wildly varying conditions on the trail.

What do I need to bring?

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring: Backpack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 55-60L bag) Sleeping bag (rated to 20 degrees or warmer) Sleeping pad Personal snacks Personal bowl, cup, and spoon Water bottle or hydration bladder (4L capacity) Hiking attire Hiking boots Spare clothes for layering Down jacket Waterproof rain jacket Sunhat Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.) Headlamp or flashlight Sunglasses MicroSpikes or YakTraks (for Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim) Camera — optional (but recommended) Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: For all the best Grand Canyon backpacking tours, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 4:1. The maximum group size is 9 guests. It takes a minimum of 2 people for Rim-to-Rim to operate, minimum of 3 people for the Deer Creek & Thunder River, and a minimum of 4 people for Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim. The cost does not decrease as the group grows. Best Grand Canyon Backpacking Tours can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements: If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Deposits and cancellation policy

A 50% deposit to secure your place is due upon booking. The remaining amount is paid 1 month (30 days) prior to departure. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies. If Client cancels the Booking anytime prior to ninety-one (91) calendar days in advance of the trip contemplated by the booking, Client is entitled to a full refund minus a $100 fee. For cancellations sixty-one (61) to ninety (90) calendar days in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of 80 percent (80%) of the full tour price. For cancellations thirty-one (31) to sixty (60) calendar days in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of seventy (70%) of the full tour price. For cancellations eight (8) to thirty (30) calendar days in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of sixty percent (60%) of the full tour price. For cancellations forty-eight (48) hours to seven (7) calendar days in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of thirty (30%) of the full tour price. After that deadline, Client is not entitled to any refund. Any reimbursable expenses arising out of the Booking incurred by Guide prior to the date of cancellation (including but not limited to plane tickets, car rental payments, and lodging or transportation fees) are non-refundable as soon as they are incurred by the Guide. Overnight permits for Grand Canyon backpacking adventures become available three months prior to departure and are competitive in nature. Your guides take care of all permitting requirements on your behalf and will reconfirm the details of your departure as soon as we have permits in hand. In the event that we are unsuccessful in obtaining permits for the trip, your guides will provide an alternative or a refund.

Getting there and meeting location

Depending on the tour you choose, you’ll need to reach Kanab or Tusayan. There are multiple options to reach Kanab, the city where you’ll stay a day prior to and after the backpacking trip. Most people fly into one of these three major airports: Harry Read International Airport (LAS) near Las Vegas, Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) , and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) . From there, the best option would be renting a car—depending on the chosen airport, it will take you anywhere between 3 and 5.5 hours to get to Kanab. To get to Tusayan, AZ, the starting point of the Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim tour, most people fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) 3.5 hours away. From there, you can rent a car and drive straight there, or take a bus or shuttle service to Flagstaff, and another bus to Tusayan. Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, which will usually be at your hotel at 5 pm.

Covid measures in Arizona and Utah

Covid measures in Arizona and Utah 57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity. We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, their guides, and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in Arizona and Utah, please refer to Arizona’s COVID-19 information for travelers and Utah’s COVID-19 traveler information . Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!

Hikers celebrating a successful climb in the Grand Canyon.

A hiker posing near a drop-off in the Grand Canyon.

A hiker on a cliffside trail in the Grand Canyon

A hiker nearing a bridge over a Grand Canyon river with a vista in the background.

A hiker in Grand Canyon National Park walking near a cliff.

A rocky trail found in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona.

Grand Canyon | Arizona

Best of Grand Canyon Backpacking Trips

5.00 ()

Season

Fall through Spring

Nearest city

Las Vegas, NV, is 3 hours away

Duration

5-7 days

Skill level

Advanced

Guides

Sunny Stroeer, Dreamland Safari Tours, AWExpeditions

From $1,615 / 5-7 days

Got any questions? or Talk with us

Overview
Itinerary
Guides
Reviews
Things to know

With rocks that are 1.8 billion years old and its marvelous display of psychedelic colors, it’s no wonder that the Grand Canyon attracts millions of visitors yearly. But do you have what it takes to join the 1% of the bold ones that actually set out on a journey below the rim? That’s exactly what these backpacking tours are for—ranging between 5 and 7 days, you really can’t go wrong. All of them are remote, with extreme altitude changes, variable weather, and testing terrain. However, those that walk to walk are treated to profound solitude, otherworldly sights, and some of the greatest hiking the Canyon has to offer. Join your experienced guides for a backpacking adventure of a lifetime in one of the world’s most unique national parks.

Discover the remoteness of trails meandering through the deep canyon
Set up your camp in one of the 7 natural wonders and sleep under the twinkling stars
Not for the faint of heart—these hikes make you work to witness Grand Canyon’s beauty

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Meet your guides

5.00

Sunny Stroeer

Sunny led a career-oriented life as an international strategy consultant with a Harvard MBA until a formative adventure on Aconcagua made her drop everything and take on the outdoors full-time. Before long, her exploits on high-altitude hiking and climbing routes saw her breaking speed records worldwide. When she’s not traveling and setting FKTs left and right, Sunny organizes guided adventures, celebrates the sporting life and promotes female empowerment through her writing and photography.

5.00

Dreamland Safari Tours have been guiding outdoor enthusiasts along Utah’s most spectacular trails since 2001. Through the last 20 years, Dreamland received customer accolades and grew to become the largest and most comprehensive tour company in the Kanab Area. Paul and Sunny, current owners of Dreamland, are lifelong backcountry adventurers with a long history of exploring the Southwest. They are excited to introduce you to the secrets of the spectacular desert landscapes in Dreamland’s backyard.

5.00

AWExpeditions

AWExpeditions organizes mountaineering, high altitude and backcountry adventures for women, by women. AWE decreases barriers of entry to the world of big mountain adventures for women from all walks of life by providing a platform for women and organization adventures in all-female or predominantly-female environments. Today, AWE runs all-women's (and a few co-ed) trips across five continents, with more destinations in the works. The Paria Canyon Backpack is a collaboration between AWExpeditions and Kanab, UT-based Dreamland Safari Tours and the Shasta glacier course is produced in partnership with Shasta Mountain Guides.

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Over the Edge: Rim-to-Rim Hiking Tour in the Grand Canyon

Sunny Stroeer

Owner of AWExpeditions

5.00 (6 reviews)

Guillaume cds about Dreamland Safari Tours on Google Reviews

Once in a lifetime experience. Mike is the most incredible tour guide you can wish for. Great energy, accommodating spirit, very knowledgeable and super enthusiastic. I highly recommend his services.

Andrea L about AWExpeditions on Trip Advisor

First class organization that cares about getting women into the wilderness with other women. From communication leading up to the trip to the actual in the mountains personal experience, AWExpeditions over the top delivers. I will work with this phenomenal expedition company again and gain.

Lynn Ballard about Dreamland Safari Tours on Google Reviews

Sunny and Paul run a professional and customer oriented business and that’s so hard to find these days. They provided an overnight stay for our group that turned a rugged camping event into a lovely experience for us. Brett cooked dinner and breakfast for us that was amazing! Anna Belle and Brett drove us to the site safely and comfortably. They were charming, educational (provided great information about the area), and took great care of our group. We loved the experience and will use them again!

Tina Q about Dreamland Safari Tours on Trip Advisor

Wow! Just wow! Everything I was hoping for and more. The geology was jaw dropping, the trip organization was stellar, and Sunny’s intimate knowledge of the canyon allowed us to see the little secrets that other will miss. But the best part was Sunny’s competency in not only leading the trip, but invoking a camaraderie and chemistry amongst a group of strangers that will inevitably lead to long term friendships. That is is a gift to all of us!

Frank M. about Dreamland Safari Tours on Trip Advisor

The years of anticipation were fulfilled!! Melanie from Dreamland was excellent she was friendly. Knowledgeable and managed the different skill levels in our group like the pro she is. We had an amazing experience!! Thank you, Melanie and Dreamland.

Erika Morales about Dreamland Safari Tours on Google Reviews

Nicholas gave a great tour! Was an amazing experience! Definite must do if in area! He’s super knowledgeable of the area and history! The sights were spectacular!

Things to know

What you get on this adventure:
- - Experienced, medically-trained, Wilderness First Responder hiking guides with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 5, 6, or 7-day backpacking trip in the Grand Canyon (depending on the itinerary you choose)
  - Hotel accommodation in Kanab or Tusayan pre and post trip (double occupancy—inquire about single occupancy)
  - Trailhead transport from and to Kanab or Tusayan
  - Lightweight backpacking tents (unless you prefer to bring your own)
  - Team cooking, camping, and first-aid equipment
  - Breakfasts and dinners on the trail (possible to accommodate dietary restrictions)
  - Water purification and/or water resupply
  - Satellite messenger communication in case of emergency
  - Human waste bags (where required)
  - Pre-trip gear & training advice (as desired)
  - Campsite fees and overnight permits
  - Trekking poles
What’s not included:
- - Transportation to Arizona
  - Lunches on trail
  - Guide gratuities — optional
All of the best Grand Canyon backpacking tours are suitable for avid hikers with excellent cardio levels. As you’ll be hiking for 8-12 miles (13 to 19 km) per day for several days in a row, you must be in great shape. Keep in mind that you’ll also be carrying a +35 lbs (+15 kg) backpack, doing up to 5,000 ft (1,524 m) of vertical ascent per day. The terrain can be rough and very steep at times, so good physical fitness is paramount. Due to the significant elevation changes, you should also prepare for extreme temperature swings and wildly varying conditions on the trail.
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
- - Backpack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 55-60L bag)
  - Sleeping bag (rated to 20 degrees or warmer)
  - Sleeping pad
  - Personal snacks
  - Personal bowl, cup, and spoon
  - Water bottle or hydration bladder (4L capacity)
  - Hiking attire
  - Hiking boots
  - Spare clothes for layering
  - Down jacket
  - Waterproof rain jacket
  - Sunhat
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
  - Headlamp or flashlight
  - Sunglasses
  - MicroSpikes or YakTraks (for Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim)
  - Camera — optional (but recommended)
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
Group sizes and prices:
- - For all the best Grand Canyon backpacking tours, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 4:1. The maximum group size is 9 guests.
  - It takes a minimum of 2 people for Rim-to-Rim to operate, minimum of 3 people for the Deer Creek & Thunder River, and a minimum of 4 people for Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim.
  - The cost does not decrease as the group grows.
Best Grand Canyon Backpacking Tours can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements:
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
A 50% deposit to secure your place is due upon booking. The remaining amount is paid 1 month (30 days) prior to departure. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies.
- - If Client cancels the Booking anytime prior to ninety-one (91) calendar days in advance of the trip contemplated by the booking, Client is entitled to a full refund minus a $100 fee.
  - For cancellations sixty-one (61) to ninety (90) calendar days in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of 80 percent (80%) of the full tour price.
  - For cancellations thirty-one (31) to sixty (60) calendar days in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of seventy (70%) of the full tour price.
  - For cancellations eight (8) to thirty (30) calendar days in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of sixty percent (60%) of the full tour price.
  - For cancellations forty-eight (48) hours to seven (7) calendar days in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of thirty (30%) of the full tour price.
  - After that deadline, Client is not entitled to any refund. Any reimbursable expenses arising out of the Booking incurred by Guide prior to the date of cancellation (including but not limited to plane tickets, car rental payments, and lodging or transportation fees) are non-refundable as soon as they are incurred by the Guide.
Overnight permits for Grand Canyon backpacking adventures become available three months prior to departure and are competitive in nature. Your guides take care of all permitting requirements on your behalf and will reconfirm the details of your departure as soon as we have permits in hand. In the event that we are unsuccessful in obtaining permits for the trip, your guides will provide an alternative or a refund.
Depending on the tour you choose, you’ll need to reach Kanab or Tusayan.

There are multiple options to reach Kanab, the city where you’ll stay a day prior to and after the backpacking trip. Most people fly into one of these three major airports: Harry Read International Airport (LAS) near Las Vegas, Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). From there, the best option would be renting a car—depending on the chosen airport, it will take you anywhere between 3 and 5.5 hours to get to Kanab.

To get to Tusayan, AZ, the starting point of the Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim tour, most people fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) 3.5 hours away. From there, you can rent a car and drive straight there, or take a bus or shuttle service to Flagstaff, and another bus to Tusayan.

Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, which will usually be at your hotel at 5 pm.
Covid measures in Arizona and Utah
57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.

We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, their guides, and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in Arizona and Utah, please refer to Arizona’s COVID-19 information for travelers and Utah’s COVID-19 traveler information.

Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!