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The Grand Canyon looks big from the top. But you don’t feel its full presence until you drop below the rim and walk into its heart of this magnificent canyon.
The Rim to Rim Trek is a legendary hike that takes you from one side of the canyon to the other, through stone cathedrals, ancient rock layers, and timeless desert stillness. Along the way, you’ll explore a billion years of geological history in the rocks.
This isn’t a day hike. It’s a pilgrimage. You descend through a mile of vertical earth, cross the Colorado River, and climb back out the other side. Along the way, you camp under stars, soak tired feet in Bright Angel Creek, and walk through millions of years of geological time. It’s hot. It’s hard. It’s unforgettable.
Every bend in the trail reveals something unexpected from towering walls lit gold at sunrise, hidden side canyons with trickling streams, a lizard watching from a rock ledge. And somewhere between the rims, you start to let go of the surface-level noise. You walk slower and breathe in rhythm with the land.
Most hikers go north to south, starting on the North Kaibab Trail and finishing on the Bright Angel Trail. Campsites like Cottonwood and Bright Angel Campground give you time to rest, recharge, and sleep near water. You’ll pass Phantom Ranch, cross the Silver Bridge, and rise out of the canyon one switchback at a time.
This trek is not about checking off a bucket list. It’s about walking into something ancient and letting it move through you. The effort becomes part of the experience. And the memory stays in your body long after your boots are clean again.
Itinerary Overview
Day 1: North Rim to Cottonwood Campground
- Start early on the North Kaibab Trail
- Descend 4,200 feet over 7 miles to Cottonwood Campground
- Pass through Roaring Springs Canyon and wild desert blooms
- Set up camp by the creek and enjoy a quiet canyon night under stars
Day 2: Cottonwood to Bright Angel Campground / Phantom Ranch
- Hike 7 miles through the stunning Box Canyon
- Arrive at Bright Angel Campground or check into Phantom Ranch if you scored a cabin
- Cool off in Bright Angel Creek and explore the nearby area
- Optional evening ranger talk or lemonade at Phantom Ranch
Day 3: Phantom Ranch to Indian Garden Campground
- Cross the Colorado River via the Silver Bridge
- Begin the long ascent up the Bright Angel Trail
- Take a long break at Indian Garden, a shady oasis halfway up
- Camp overnight or push through to the South Rim if you’re strong and salty
Day 4 (Optional): Indian Garden to South Rim
- Early morning finish with golden light hitting the canyon walls
- Climb the final 4.5 miles and 3,000 feet to the South Rim
- Celebrate with a cold drink, meal, and a long, well-earned sit on the edge
What to Bring:
- Lightweight backpacking gear (tent or bivy, sleeping bag, pad)
- Water filter or purification tablets
- Food for 3–4 days (high-calorie, packable meals)
- Bear-resistant food bag (required by the park)
- Lightweight stove or no-cook setup
- Warm layer, rain jacket, hat, and sun protection
- Trekking poles and blister kit
- Permit and ID for campsites or Phantom Ranch
- Camp shoes for creek lounging
- Lightweight towel and bandana
- Small journal or sketchbook
Trail Info and Difficulty
Level: Challenging
Distance: 23–24 miles (one way)
Elevation Loss/Gain: 6,000 feet down and 4,500 feet up
Best Season: May–June and September–October
Temps: Freezing at night, blazing at the bottom
This hike demands respect. Summer temps can reach over 100°F at the river. You’ll need to hydrate constantly and be ready for exposed climbs.
Ready To Cross The Grand Canyon?
Walking Rim to Rim is more than a hike. It’s a rite of passage. If you’re ready to unplug, walk through ancient earth, and emerge stronger on the other side, this trail is calling.
Let’s plan your Grand Canyon journey. Book a free call and we’ll help you organize permits, routes, and gear for a smooth and unforgettable trek.
Location
FAQ
Do I need a permit?
Yes. Backcountry permits are required for camping and book up quickly. Phantom Ranch requires separate reservations. You should book at least 6-12 months in advance or we can help you hire a tour operator.
Can I hike Rim to Rim in one day?
It’s possible for fit and experienced hikers, but most people take 2–4 days. Slowing down makes it more enjoyable and safer.
What’s the water situation?
Seasonal water taps at Cottonwood, Phantom Ranch, and Indian Garden. Always check updates. Filter creek water when in doubt.
Is it better to hike north to south or south to north?
North to south is the most popular. It’s slightly more forgiving and logistically smoother with shuttles and resupply.
How do I get back to my car?
Use the Trans-Canyon Shuttle (seasonal) or arrange a shuttle with local outfitters. Some people do it as a loop over multiple days.
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Added By Kyle Pearce
I started Nature Retreats to spotlight ecolodges, retreat centers and ecotourism projects following sustainable tourism practices that benefit local communities and protect fragile biodiversity.
I have been running mindful hiking retreats for the last 7 years that integrate mindful awareness, experiential learning and community building practices.
Marissa Crumrine
2 weeks agoSuper easy trail with amazing lookout points over the canyon. Dog friendly which is a huge plus! Highly recommend continuing on and stopping at the other lookouts along the scenic drive.
Rong Shang
6 months agoThe South Tim Trail is stunning and easy to access. It’s all paved road, easy to walk for all ages. It’s also dog friendly. We are visiting on New Year’s, plenty of people on the trail but not too crowded. Great weather: sunny and warm, great visibility. Would definitely recommend it as a perfect designation for multi-generational family travels.. Free shuttle between lodges, hotels, visitor centers and trail heads. Plenty of places to eat.
Stuart Williams
5 months agoWow. There is nothing quite like this anywhere I’ve visited. You gaze at what looks like a perfect oil painting, hard to fathom the depth or majesty of the scene in front of you of you. As you walk along this trail the light and composition changes constantly refreshing the view you experience. It’s a unique experience despite hiking many trails and climbing many mountains. It’s worth flying thousands of miles, driving hundreds of miles and paying for expensive accommodation just to stand and gaze for a few hours. If you’ve not been, then plan a trip, it really is a once in a lifetime opportunity.
Michael Snyder
a month agoGreat walks everywhere. Plenty of signs and displays and views abound. Take awhile along the trail to some alone time between the busy visitor centers
Victoria D
4 months agoBucket list place to visit! My dogs loved it, we loved it, and I can’t wait to come back one day! The Grand Canyon lives up to its name!