The Heat Is On: Grand Canyon Hiking In the Summer (Part 2)
Key Takeaways
- Start Early and Stay Cool: Begin your Grand Canyon hike before sunrise to avoid peak heat, and use streams, creeks, or a simple spray bottle to stay refreshed along the trail.
- Prioritize Shade and Rest: Take frequent breaks in shaded areas—every hour if possible—to prevent overheating and conserve energy during summer hikes.
- Hydrate and Replace Electrolytes: Drink plenty of water and snack on salty foods like pretzels or peanuts to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance in extreme heat.
- Relax During Peak Heat: When the midday sun is at its strongest, rest under a tree or by a creek instead of pushing forward—your body will thank you later.
- Choose the Right Route: Opt for Grand Canyon hiking trails with reliable water sources and shade, such as those featured in guided trips like the Havasupai Gardens or Basecamp Adventures.
- Plan Smart for Safety and Fun: Proper pacing, hydration, and smart route selection make summer Grand Canyon hiking not just bearable—but truly unforgettable.
Hiking in Grand Canyon during the hot summer months does present some challenges, but thoughtful preparation and a few little tricks can help make for a fantastic, enjoyable, and safe experience. In Part 1 of this blog we discussed the importance of avoiding hiking during the hottest part of the day and taking the opportunity to get wet as often as possible.
Hiking early in the wee morning hours is easy enough and staying wet isn’t too hard either, as long you wisely chose a hiking route that will frequently have you near streams and pools. When you can’t count on regular access to water faucets or creeks, a handy-dandy spray bottle is your best friend. You can pick one up anywhere for about $3, fill it up with water, and keep it handy on the outside of your backpack for the occasional ‘misting’ along the trail. This method won’t do much to keep your core temperature down, but it’s instant gratification when sprayed on faces, arms, necks, and heads as you take a well-deserved break in the shade. And it’s a great way to make friends on the trail! People will love you if you share your cooling mist!
Speaking of shade…this is your next best friend while hiking in the heat. Make sure that every time you take a break (I recommend a 10-minute break every hour or so), you break in the shade. A break in the sun is no break at all! If the group is going to be stopped along the way for more than minute, be sure you’re out of the sun. Every little bit helps.
Last, but most definitely not least, is the importance of drinking plenty of fluids and eating plenty of food, especially salty foods. Your body is going to need a lot of water to keep functioning properly (I’ve drank 10 liters in a day on some of the hotter days) and a lot of that water will be lost to sweat. And along with that sweat, your body is losing precious salts (i.e. electrolytes). If you don’t replace those salts, you will end up in a bad place (a topic worthy of its own dedicated blog post). I LOVE Pringles and Lays Stax! Crunchy, salty, and just plain delicious (leave your low-sodium, health-nut diets at home, people). Any kind of snack cracker is great, peanuts, pretzels, whatever. Your body will be craving salt and you won’t believe how delicious and satisfying all those snacks will taste. Electrolyte drink mixes are great too but they are not a substitute for ample food. Eat plenty, drink plenty, feel great!
During the hottest part of the day, the best option is to relax. Find a big shade tree, roll out your sleeping pad, bring a book, and chill out! If you prefer a comfortable setup with all the essentials handled, our Basecamp Adventures in the Grand Canyon provide the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. You’ll likely be ready for at least one nap, considering I got you up at 3am in the morning to beat the heat. Take an occasional dip in the creek…I know there’s a creek nearby because if there isn’t a creek nearby, you chose the wrong destination for a summer hike in Grand Canyon! Some routes, like our Havasupai Gardens backpacking trip, offer great access to creeks and shaded spots. But a little more exploration isn’t out of the question. Leave camp setup, grab a couple liters of water, get SOAKING WET, and go for a short walk.
Though not an exhaustive list, these tips will surely help you maximize your enjoyment during your summer hike in Grand Canyon. Got any more helpful hints? Share your ideas with us!
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn how to stay safe, cool, and comfortable while hiking the Grand Canyon during the hot summer months.
What’s the best time of day to hike the Grand Canyon in summer?
Start your hike before sunrise, ideally around 3–5 a.m., to avoid the extreme midday heat. Morning hours offer cooler temperatures and safer conditions, especially on exposed trails with little shade.
How can I stay cool while hiking in the Grand Canyon?
Stay wet whenever possible—dip in creeks, use a spray bottle to mist yourself, and take frequent shade breaks. Evaporative cooling from wet clothes or skin can significantly reduce heat stress during your hike.
What should I eat and drink while hiking in the heat?
Hydrate often and replace electrolytes lost through sweat. Drink plenty of water—up to 10 liters on the hottest days—and snack on salty foods like pretzels, peanuts, or chips to maintain energy and electrolyte balance.
Is it safe to hike during the hottest part of the day?
No. It’s best to rest in the shade or near water between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when temperatures peak. Use this time to relax, nap, or read until it’s safe to continue hiking.
What should I pack for a summer Grand Canyon hike?
Bring at least 3 liters of water, salty snacks, sunscreen, a hat, lightweight clothing, and a spray bottle. Consider electrolyte drink mixes and a lightweight sleeping pad for resting during the heat of the day.
Are there shaded trails in the Grand Canyon?
Some trails, especially those near creeks and inner canyon areas like Havasupai Gardens, offer partial shade. Choose routes with water access and natural cover to make your hike more comfortable.
How often should I rest on the trail?
Take a 10-minute break every hour in the shade. Regular breaks help regulate body temperature, prevent exhaustion, and ensure you stay hydrated and fueled throughout the hike.
Can I swim or cool off in Grand Canyon creeks?
Yes, dipping in creeks is one of the best ways to cool down during summer hikes. Always prioritize safety—check for strong currents and slippery rocks before entering the water.
What are signs of heat exhaustion while hiking?
Early signs include dizziness, nausea, headache, excessive sweating, or confusion. Stop immediately, move to shade, drink water with electrolytes, and cool your body with wet cloths or misting.
How can guided hikes help during summer?
Guided tours, like those by Four Season Guides, ensure you follow safe routes, start early, and have expert support. They manage logistics, hydration plans, and pacing for a safe, enjoyable adventure.
Grand Canyon Hiking: Looking for the experience of a lifetime? Look no further than a bucket-list Grand Canyon hiking or backpacking experience with Four Season Guides. To book your trip today or for more information about our adventures, visit: fsguides.com Explore our guided Grand Canyon hiking tours to find the perfect adventure for your summer trip.
Four Season Guides, 506 N Grant St suite o, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, United States
+19285251552
35.19653980, -111.62000560
Read More
