Grand Canyon Hiking Tours Rim to Rim
Despite all the photos you have seen of the Grand Canyon, nothing compares to actually backpacking it from one rim to the next. One cannot even begin to capture all of the beauty that every twist and turn takes, nor have a wide enough lens. Hiking the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure you have to take for yourself.
What does it mean to hike the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim? There are a handful of primary trails that lead to the bottom of the Grand Canyon. There is, of course, the most popular trail – which is the Bright Angel Trail. There is the South Kaibab Trail, also on the south side and then there is the less known but maybe twice as beautiful North Rim trail.
Four Season Guides offers the famous Grand Canyon Rim to Rim tour because this hike is the most scenic, all-encompassing backpacking trip you can take if you really, really want to experience the Grand Canyon.
The hike gives you a very diverse set of views as it starts on the North Rim, which is covered in beautiful spruce and fir trees – as opposed to the more sparse, desert feeling, one gets on the south rim. From the north rim, one descends down the North Kaibab Trail where, eventually, you pass the beautiful Roaring Springs, and a watery oasis that bursts from the canyon wall.
Camping on the first night occurs at Bright Angel Creek, the Cottonwood Camp. This peaceful camping location offers everyone a chance to reflect on the beauty of the day and their photographs, while relaxing under the stars.
Day two of your backpacking trip you will pass Ribbon Falls, yet another beautiful water feature in the Grand Canyon – along with other fascinating natural features before arriving at the historic Phantom Ranch and the Colorado River. Technically, it is here that you have arrived at the bottom of the Grand Canyon.
Day three, it’s time to cross the mighty Colorado River and start moving southward up to the lush and beautiful Indian Gardens. Then it’s onto Plateau Point where you will enjoy sunset at one of the most incredible viewpoints in the entire Grand Canyon park.
Finally, on Day 4, you will finish your hike on the South Rim, and likely believe it all passed far too quickly. Most reach Day 4 and want to hike Grand Canyon all over again.
So how do you experience this amazing Grand Canyon Rim to Rim tour, even if you don’t have all of the gear necessary to start the journey? Well, it’s actually quite simple as Four Season Guides takes care of all the work on your behalf. Show up with your clothes, toothbrush and a positive attitude and get ready to enjoy your adventure. Four Season Guides will already have obtained the needed permits, and will provide you with all the gear necessary for your trip. These items include: your backpack, tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad and trekking poles. So don’t worry – it’s this adventure will not require an overpriced trip to REI.
Four Season Guides also packs and prepares all of your food, sets up your tent, provides daily hiking snacks and more! Can you imagine an adventure where you just show up and all of the details are already taken care of?
Most importantly the Four Season Guides, guides, are professional, licensed and medically trained – so if you have concerns about the hike, you will have a leader and team with you all the way. OK, so now you’re all amped up and ready to start the process of booking your Grand Canyon Rim to Rim adventure? It couldn’t be easier…
For further details on the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim Backpacking Trip, check out the Four Season Guides website, which includes each day’s itinerary and how to make reservations. You can also check out a few of the photos we and guests have taken of this incredible trip, to take your excitement level up and over the top. Don’t’ miss out on this once and a lifetime hike – you won’t regret it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Experience the Grand Canyon’s legendary Rim to Rim hike — a four-day guided backpacking adventure that crosses from the North Rim to the South Rim through some of the most stunning terrain in the American Southwest.
How long does it take to hike the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim?
Most hikers complete the Rim to Rim journey in 3 to 4 days. Guided tours, like those from Four Season Guides, follow a 4-day itinerary with overnight stops at Cottonwood Camp, Phantom Ranch, and Indian Gardens before finishing on the South Rim.
How difficult is the Rim to Rim hike?
The Rim to Rim hike is considered strenuous due to steep elevation changes, high temperatures, and long mileage—about 24 miles one way. With proper preparation and a guided service that handles gear, food, and logistics, it becomes a challenging but achievable adventure.
What is the best time of year to hike Rim to Rim?
The best time to hike Rim to Rim is from late May through early October. During this window, both the North and South Rims are open, and weather conditions are generally favorable, though summer can bring heat in the canyon’s depths.
Which trails are used for the Rim to Rim hike?
The most common route begins at the North Kaibab Trail on the North Rim, descends to Phantom Ranch and the Colorado River, and then climbs out via either Bright Angel Trail or South Kaibab Trail on the South Rim.
Do I need a permit for the Rim to Rim hike?
Yes. A backcountry permit is required for overnight camping within the canyon. Guided outfitters like Four Season Guides handle all necessary permits and logistics for their clients.
Can beginners hike the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim?
Beginners can complete the Rim to Rim hike if they are in good physical condition and choose a guided tour. Professional guides manage equipment, meals, and safety, allowing first-time backpackers to focus on the experience.
What should I pack for a Rim to Rim hike?
Essential items include layered clothing, hiking boots, sun protection, and personal items like a toothbrush. On guided tours, all major gear—backpack, tent, sleeping bag, pad, and trekking poles—is provided, along with meals and snacks.
How far is the Rim to Rim hike in miles?
The Rim to Rim route covers approximately 24 miles, depending on trail choice. The elevation change exceeds 10,000 feet from rim to rim, offering breathtaking scenery and diverse ecosystems along the way.
Where do hikers stay overnight on a Rim to Rim trip?
Typical stops include Cottonwood Camp, Phantom Ranch, and Indian Gardens. These camps offer rest, reflection, and a chance to enjoy natural features like Ribbon Falls and Bright Angel Creek before continuing the journey.
Is a guided Rim to Rim tour worth it?
Absolutely. A guided Rim to Rim tour removes the stress of permits, gear, and planning. It ensures safety, provides expert guidance, and allows you to fully immerse yourself in one of the world’s most remarkable hiking experiences.
Four Season Guides, 506 N Grant St suite o, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, United States
+19285251552
35.19653980, -111.62000560
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