This summer I backpacked the Grand Canyon and it was the greatest adventure! My trip was 28 miles in total with over 6,000 ft of elevation gain. The Grand Canyon is one of the greatest backpacking trips you can go on but it is very important to be prepared and informed. Here is everything I learned about staying safe in the backcountry:
*Disclaimer: These are my opinions based on my experience. I am not a trip planner and am not responsible for you or your trip* Thanks :)
1: Route Planning
The first step is to plan your route. There are a couple of options when it comes to backpacking, you can either do R2R (rim to rim) or R2R2R (rim to rim to rim).
R2R: For this route you will be hiking from one rim to another. Most people start at the South Rim and hike up the North Rim. To do this you need to have a ride that can pick you up once you get to the other side of the canyon. The ride around is about 5 hours and there also is a shuttle. However, this shuttle costs money! The national parks service recommends breaking this adventure up into two days and camping at one of the campgrounds at the bottom. Bright Angel Campground, Phantom Ranch, and Cottonwood are all great options.
R2R2R: This backpacking trip takes 3 days at least because you go from one rim to another and then back to the rim that you started at. A possible benefit for doing this route is that you don't need a ride back because you will be hiking back! However, this trip is very strenuous, so it is very important to plan and bring enough food and water!
2: Seasons and Weather
The Grand Canyon has two ideal times to go backpacking: springtime (March to May) and fall time (September to November). The summers get dangerously hot, and the bottom of the Canyon can easily exceed 100 degrees!
3: Permits
Now that you know when you want to go and which route you want to take you can apply for backpacking permits! The Grand Canyon National Park requires permits for the backcountry campsites and they are very competitive! It is best to apply ealry! My trip was in May and I had to apply in December! Go to this website for more information: https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/backcountry-permit.htm
4: Gear
The best gear to have in the Grand Canyon are lightweight gear. Pick a comfortable and lightweight backpack, shoes, tent, sleeping pad, and clothing. You will sweat a lot so make sure your clothes are moisture wicking and can protect you from the sun. On my trip I wore and long sleeve sun hoodie. I also highly recommend a hat and sunglasses! Your choice of footwear is extremely important as well. It is really hot in the canyon, so it is best to wear a lightweight and breathable pair of shoes. Make sure the shoes won't give you blisters because they suck haha! On the trail I wore a pair of Altra trail runners and they served me well!
5: Water
One of the most important parts of trip planning is the water. Water is limited in the Canyon and often the sources vary by which time of year and certain conditions. Make sure which water sources are available on the National Parks Website before your trip because it is very important. Always bring and emergency filter and extra water! Emergencies happen and water is vital especially in the canyon!
6: Food
Another obvious aspect is to have enough food. I recommend lightweight dehydrated meals. You can even make your own! Just remember to bring enough for your trip; you will be burning a lot of calories so its important to bring lots of food! I wanted my pack to be extra lightweight so I did not bring a backpacking stove. I went with the cold soaking method.
7: Fitness
A backpacking trail in the canyon is on average 5,000 ft of elevation gain! It is important to be mentally prepared as well as physically! I recommend preparing your body and mind for this awesome adventure.
8: Navigation and Emergencies
Before you start your journey, it is important to know your route well. Also, carry a reliable source of navigation. I used the alltrails app and made sure to bring an extra battery for my phone.
10: Leave no Trace
One of the most important things is to leave no trace! Make sure you have a plan to pack out all of your belongings, even your trash! Keep the canyon beautiful and the wildlife safe. Also, Phantom Ranch only has trash for items that you purchase there. You cannot put your personal trash in their trash! Just remember that the mules have to haul all that up!
11: Have Fun!
The most important thing is to have a great time! There are many risks when backpacking the canyon but just be prepared and you will have a fun time! Enjoy to epicenes and serene beauty of it. It really is a trip of a lifetime!
12: Extra tip - Gas
The gas right outside of the Grand Canyon in Tusayan is very expensive! I recommend filling on gas before driving all the way to the canyon.
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