The Grand Canyon is one of America’s biggest and most well-known natural wonders. Its magnificent canyon walls and the fierce Colorado River leave visitors in a state of awe and wonder. For an avid hiker, the Grand Canyon is an all-time dream and checkmark on the ‘bucket list’. The many exciting trails, backpacking and camping opportunities, and hidden secrets make Grand Canyon a hiker’s paradise.
Grand Canyon Trails
The trails in the Grand Canyon offer hikers, from beginners to experts, an exciting adventure lasting from a just few hours to a week or longer. Many routes descend from rim to river and present an arduous endeavor when trying to complete in a single day. However, many trails offer fabulous campsites halfway down, offering unparalleled views across the canyon or into the depths below. So the option to break up the descent or ascent into multiple days can make the trip more appealing and attainable.
When deciding to hike the Grand Canyon, it can be helpful to hire a guide service. The experience and knowledge of someone who has traveled extensively through Grand Canyon’s back country can offer a welcome peace of mind. The Canyon’s terrain and temperature extremes can present considerable challenges for the under-prepared. A guide service will take the stress out of the logistics such as route planning, permitting, food preparation, and gear. All you have to do is ensure that you are physically up to the challenge.
Hiking Basic Essentials
Hikers should learn the basic essentials needed for these trying trails, which park rangers will gladly share with you. Be prepared for steep trails with long, continuous ups and downs. Trekking poles will save your knees on the downhill, as well as offer extra stability and balance. Plenty of food and water are needed to get you through the day. Summer temperatures are very hot and it’s not uncommon to go through 4 or more liters of water in a day. Salty snacks and ample meals will keep you fueled for the endeavor.
Physical fitness is a must if you are considering a long hike below the rim. The steep trails and environmental demands require strength and stamina, especially if you’re carrying a full backpack. Even hikes along the rims require a certain degree of fitness considering you are at 7000 feet above sea level!
Oh The Views
The Grand Canyon is full of beautiful lookouts and amazing campsites. Hiking is the best way to fully engross yourself in all of this wonder. Many of the best viewpoints are only accessible via the trails below the rim, and often a seasoned guide will know of additional lookouts that most tourists and visitors would otherwise never discover. On a clear day, the view can extend for more than 50 miles! If you’re backpacking, you can exchange those incredible daytime views for star-studded skies beyond your wildest imagination.
Hiking is a great way to release stress, get exercise, and see the beauty of the world. America is full of gorgeous National Parks and Monuments featuring endless miles of trails just waiting to be explored. The Grand Canyon serves as one of the most exhilarating, challenging and beautiful destinations for any avid hiker and it is definitely a must-see destination for any adventure seeker.
About Guided Hiking in Grand Canyon: Hiking Grand Canyon can offer a life-changing experience to always be remembered. For more info on Grand Canyon Hiking Trips, visit: www.fsguides.com/.
