Trip Detail
Set out on foot to discover the extraordinary beauty of Grand Canyon National Park. From the lush forests of the North Rim, hike along sinuous sandstone ribbons sculpted over millions of years. Explore the more arid terrain of the South Rim and witness the canyon’s shifting palette of red, orange, and gold. Then head to Havasu Canyon, a stunning oasis located just outside a remote section of the park, for a camping expedition. Hike through a red-rock labyrinth and feel the cool spray of waterfalls as they gush over travertine terraces. Swim in turquoise pools, delve into slot canyons, and sleep in tents beside a shaded creek. Explore the geological formations that make the Grand Canyon one of the most magnificent natural wonders of the world.
Trip Highlights
- Hike into the Grand Canyon’s spectacular chasm on the less traveled trails of the North Rim.
- Explore Havasu Canyon and its spectacular red-rock formations while camping for three nights beside a tranquil creek.
- Swim in turquoise pools at the foot of gushing waterfalls, surrounded by sandstone cliffs.
- Hike into a slot canyon with a Navajo guide, and meet members of the Havasupai tribe.
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Itinerary - 9 Days
Day 1 — Las Vegas, Nevada
Arrive in Las Vegas and transfer to our hotel. Gather for a trip orientation and welcome dinner this evening.
Hyatt Place Las Vegas (D)
Hyatt Place Las Vegas (D)
Day 2 — Grand Canyon/North Rim
Cross the desert and canyons of the Arizona Strip en route to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. The North Rim’s higher altitude supports dense forests of pine, fir, and aspen, a striking contrast to the arid landscape of the South Rim. At Point Imperial, enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the canyon’s spectacular swirling chasm, carved by the Colorado River over millions of years. Embark on a short warm-up hike to the Grand Canyon Lodge, perched above the canyon and our home for the next two nights. (2 miles hiking, 1 hour)
Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim (B,L,D)
Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim (B,L,D)
Day 3 — North Kaibab Trail
After breakfast, descend below the canyon rim on the North Kaibab Trail. Pass through several geological layers and ecological zones, and hike beneath a dramatic Redwall Limestone cliff to the Supai Tunnel. Later travel along Cape Royal Road to the southernmost point of the North Rim, taking in spectacular views of the Wallahalla Plateau and going on short hikes in the area. (5-10 miles hiking, 2-5 hours)
Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim (B,L,D)
Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim (B,L,D)
Day 4 — Vermillion Cliffs/Antelope Canyon/Horseshoe Bend
Drive to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, stopping at several scenic points along the way. At the Vermillion Cliffs, look for reintroduced California condors among the sandstone waves. At Antelope Canyon, explore one of the most photographed slot canyons with a Navajo guide. Later, take a short hike to Horseshoe Bend overlook, where the Colorado River makes a spectacular loop below red cliffs. Stop at the Cameron Trading Post for dinner, then continue to our lodge at the South Rim. (2-4 miles hiking, 3 hours)
Thunderbird Lodge (B,L)
Thunderbird Lodge (B,L)
Day 5 — South Kaibab Trail
We have two hiking options today. Descend the steep switchbacks of the South Kaibab Trail, passing ancient strata layers and panoramic viewpoints on our way to Cedar Ridge. Or hike the West Rim Trail skirting the South Rim. Enjoy a picnic lunch while learning about the ecosystems and geology of the park. Keep an eye out for mule deer, desert bighorn sheep, condors, and other canyon wildlife. Tonight, capture the canyon at sunset on a photographic walk to some of the best viewpoints. (3-7 miles hiking, 2-4 hours)
Thunderbird Lodge (L,D)
Thunderbird Lodge (L,D)
Day 6 — Havasu Canyon/Havasu Falls
A morning drive brings us to Hualapai Hilltop (4,849′) where we embark on a 10-mile hike into Havasu Canyon. Red-rock walls rise overhead as we descend through a series of switchbacks. Near the canyon floor, the rocky terrain opens into a wide plain shaded by cottonwood and willow trees. Visit the village of Supai, home to both the Havasupai tribe and the only U.S. post office that still uses pack mules. This afternoon, arrive at our base camp situated on the banks of Havasu Creek. Take a refreshing dip in the pools of Havasu Falls or relax in hammocks overlooking this desert oasis. (10 miles hiking, 4-5 hours)
Camping (B,L,D)
Camping (B,L,D)
Day 7 — Mooney Falls/Beaver Falls
Awaken to the sun rising over the canyon. Embark on a hike to the spectacular Mooney Falls, which drop about 200 feet into travertine-lined pools. This area is home to desert bighorn sheep, Gila monsters, and rare bird species including peregrine falcons. Relax on the shore or, if you wish, continue hiking to Beaver Falls. (3-9 miles hiking, 2-5 hours)
Camping (B,L,D)
Camping (B,L,D)
Day 8 — Carbonate Canyon
Set out on a morning hike through Carbonate Canyon, looking for fossils among its narrow slots. The afternoon is free to relax at our camp or hike to two newer falls formed by a flood in 2008. At the base of the falls, swim in blue-green pools surrounded by a dramatic red-rock amphitheater. Tonight, enjoy a festive farewell dinner. (2-6 miles hiking, 2-3 hours)
Camping (B,L,D)
Camping (B,L,D)
Day 9 — Havasu Canyon/Las Vegas
This morning, begin our ascent back to the canyon rim, passing whimsical rock formations and sculpted red cliffs. An optional helicopter or horseback ride can also be arranged for those who would rather not make the steep climb. Return to Las Vegas this afternoon and depart on your flight home. (10 miles hiking, 4-5 hours)
(B,L)
(B,L)
Trip Cost
2013
$4,295
2014
$4,495
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room/tent, add $600 in 2013 and $625 in 2014. Airfare is not included.
GROUP SIZE: 10–16
See special terms and conditions for this adventure.
GROUP SIZE: 10–16
See special terms and conditions for this adventure.
Activity Level
Moderate
We will be hiking 1 to 5 hours per day (2 to 10 miles) on moderate to steep grades and at elevations ranging from 3,000 feet to a maximum of 8,200 feet. Most days have options for more, or less, hiking. A horse and mule team will transport our gear during our trek in Havasu Canyon. We will spend 3 nights camping in spacious tents in a base camp situated on the banks of Havasu creek and 5 nights in National Park lodges and hotels that combine comfort and ideal locations.
Click here for a description of all activity levels.
Contact Us: 1-888-689-2557
Call to speak with an Adventure specialist about this trip.
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