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Get the "Feel" of the Grand Canyon with a Day Hike
There is no better way to "feel" the real Grand Canyon than by taking a hike into its interior. Even a short hike into the Grand Canyon can give you a lifetime of memories. If you or any member of your group is an inexperienced hiker, taking a day hike is safer than an overnight trip. You may also enjoy a relaxing day hike more than you would a strenuous foray into the more difficult areas.
However, even a day hike should be undertaken with care and planning (see PRECAUTIONS below). Know where you are going and do not attempt excessive distances. Remember, if you descend into the canyon, you must climb out again. The descent will be tiring enough, but the climb out will be even more so. Plus, when you begin your climb out, you will already be tired from the body-pounding descent.
Permits are required for overnight trips, but they are not required for non-commercial day hikes. So, if you cnnot obtain an overnight permint, consider a rewarding day hike.
When to Hike
Due to the extremely hight temperatures of summer and the cold and sometimes icy trails in the winter, the safest times to hike are in the spring and fall. In addition to safety, you will enjoy your Grand Canyon hiking experience a lot more if you are not fighting the elements.
Selecting a Trail
No trail within the Grand Canyon is easy. Do not attempt a trail or a distance that is beyond your capabilities. When planning your day, remember that in addition to the distance, you will have considerable elevation loss and gain. This will add to the difficulty of your hike.
Also remember that Grand Canyon hikes start at 7,000 to 8,000 feet in elevation. If you live at near sea level, the thinner air at altitude will add to your fatigue. DO NOT proceed into the canyon without reading and understanding the PRECAUTIONS below.
Following is a directory of hikes in the Grand Canyon. Review these carefully before selecting your route:
| South Rim Hikes | North Rim Hikes |
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PRECAUTIONS - TAKE THIS SERIOUSLY! You should not try to hike from the rim to the river and back in one day. Most people find that this round trip is a tough trip to do in two days. The extreme temperatures of summer can be life-threatening. Access to certain trails may be restricted in the summer when temperatures within the canyon are most extreme. Call (928) 638-7888 for information on trail restrictions and closures. See Summer Hiking Trails within the Canyon are remote, making search and rescue operations difficult and expensive. If you have to be rescued, it will be at your expense. A helicopter rescue will cost you $2,000 or more. |