Trips With Pack Animal Support

John Hance liked to tell stories. Big stories. His favorite was that he dug the Grand Canyon himself and piled up the rocks and dirt out by Flagstaff. He was too modest to name the mountains after himself, so they call them the San Francisco Peaks today.

Hance came to the Grand Canyon to mine asbestos, but he quickly realized there were more dollars to dig out of the pockets of tourists than the billion-year-old walls of the canyon. Despite having one of the world’s great wonders to show off, the colourful raconteur was as big a draw as the mile-deep gorge in his time. After returning from Arizona, visitors would often gush as much about the guide as the canyon.

Late in 1886, Hance walked into the offices of the Flagstaff, Arizona, Champion and took out an ad offering accommodations in his hotel on the rim—the canyon’s first—and a journey down below from Grandview Point on the back of a mule. A unique Grand Canyon tradition was born.

Why a mule?

A mule is a cross between a male donkey and a female horse. From this genetic stew the mule inherits from the donkey intelligence, endurance, great strength, and patience. From the horse comes nimbleness of foot and size. All of these traits make the mule the ideal trail companion for trips into the Grand Canyon.

For riders, riding mules means steady nerves and gentleness. Can you ride a mule? Absolutely, and they’ve been trusted for decades. Grand Canyon saddles are specially crafted on-site to better fit a mule’s flatter back and boast a high cantle at the back and a high swell under the saddle horn to better keep the rider from sliding backwards or forwards on the constantly sloping canyon trails. A horn gives an extra hold for skittish riders.

Mules have been a fixture at the Grand Canyon for over 100 years. While the behavior of animals in a wilderness environment can never be completely predictable, the safety record of mules in the hands of trained skinners in the canyon is exemplary. Mules always have the right of way on the trail – walking or resting.

The real facility of mules at the Grand Canyon

Mule trains do much more than ferry riders to the depths of the Grand Canyon. Even in this age of drones, almost everything that makes its way to the bottom of the canyon arrives on the back of an animal. That includes supplies and the U.S. Mail to Phantom Ranch. Trash is also hauled out by mules through the pack mule express system.

The result is that while only a handful of mule riders are permitted in the canyon each day, there are some 10,000 commercial trips per year from the South Rim and 8,000 from the North Rim. At Four Seasons, mules are used for support, hauling camping gear, food, and other essentials into the canyon. Trips with Pack Animal Support leave hikers with just a lightweight daypack to ease the journey and allow for more spirited explorations of the nooks and crannies of the Grand Canyon beneath the rim.

The mule train to the bottom of the Grand Canyon—a tradition not to be missed. If you're planning your adventure, a well-prepared packing list for the Grand Canyon is key to maximising comfort.

VISITOR Resources and Weather Insights

What to Bring

Before hitting the trails, visitor should always prepare a Grand Canyon packing list to include essentials like water, sunscreen, layers, and first aid. If you're wondering what to pack for Grand Canyon adventures in cooler months, gear like gloves, insulated jackets, and traction devices are crucial.

Fall & Winter Weather

Travelling in the Grand Canyon in November offers crisp air, fewer crowds, and magical views. Expect chilly mornings and mild afternoons — the temp in Grand Canyon in November can range from the low 30s to the high 50s. If you’re planning your trip in February, expect cooler mornings and potentially icy trails, depending on elevation.

Curious about what to wear to the Grand Canyon during seasonal transitions? Dress in moisture-wicking layers and bring a shell for sudden shifts. Don’t forget: what to wear in Arizona in February includes long sleeves and a jacket.

Spring Conditions

Planning for March in Grand Canyon? Spring brings thawing snow and blooming flora, so check what is the weather like in March before finalizing plans. This season is perfect for moderate hikes and fewer crowds.

April is even better — visiting Arizona in April brings ideal conditions for long hikes and photography.

Summer Temperatures

If you're planning a summer visit, note that Arizona weather in June 2024 will be hot and dry, especially midday. Hydration and sun protection are critical.

Heading into July? The average temp in grand canyon in July can soar above 85°F during the day. Still, many adventurers enjoy visiting Grand Canyon in July for sunrise hikes and starry skies.

Holiday Season Hiking

Winter hikes are equally magical. There are beautiful places to see in Arizona in December, with some trails offering snow-dusted views. If you're up for it, hiking in December is possible with warm gear, especially for those visiting Arizona in December seeking tranquility and scenic beauty.

Ready to explore deeper?

Whether you're riding into history on a mule or exploring the canyon trails on foot, the Grand Canyon promises an experience unlike any other. With the right gear, preparation, and support, your journey can be both safe and spectacular.

At Four Season Guides, you can choose from expertly guided tours led by seasoned professionals — perfect for those who want structure, support, and deep local knowledge. Prefer something more personal? We also offer customized adventures, tailored to your interests, fitness level, and travel dates.

Let us help you craft the Grand Canyon experience that’s perfect for you.