Hiking the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim

The 21-mile traverse from the North Rim to the South Rim (or vice versa) descends over 5,000 feet, crosses the Colorado River, then climbs nearly 5,000 feet on the other side. It is one of the most demanding and rewarding hikes in North America.

Route Options

North Kaibab to Bright Angel (Classic R2R)

• Distance: 21 miles (North to South)
• Elevation change: -5,761 ft down, +4,380 ft up
• Duration: 1 long day (12–16 hours) or 2–3 days backpacking

South Kaibab to North Kaibab

• Distance: 20.5 miles
• Note: South Kaibab is steeper with no water; most prefer to descend it and ascend Bright Angel

Recommended products to consider:

• Bonk Breaker Energy Bar ($33, 62 g)
• Skratch Labs Energy Bar Sport Fuel -12-Pack ($30, 51 g)
• Deuter Race 8L Hydration Pack ($50, 539 g)
• Osprey Packs HydraJet 12L Hydration Pack - Kids' ($52, 380 g)
• Osprey Packs Savu 5L Hydration Pack ($65, 374 g)
• CamelBak Thrive Flip Straw 14oz Water Bottle - Kids' ($16, 142 g)
• CamelBak Thrive Chug 32oz Water Bottle ($19, 198 g)
• GSI Outdoors Microlite 350 Flip Water Bottle ($25, 227 g)

Training Plan

Start training 3–6 months in advance:

1. Build a base of 10+ miles per week on hilly terrain
2. Practice hiking with a loaded pack (if backpacking)
3. Do several 15+ mile days with significant elevation gain
4. Train on stairs or stadium bleachers to build quad endurance for the descent
5. Acclimate to heat if visiting in summer

Water and Nutrition

• Water sources: Seasonal and not guaranteed. Check NPS website for current pipeline status.
• Carry a minimum of 3 liters starting capacity
• Consume 200–300 calories per hour of sustained hiking
• Replace electrolytes consistently — hyponatremia is a real risk in summer heat

When to Go

• October and May: Best months — moderate temperatures, manageable crowds
• Summer (June–August): Inner canyon exceeds 110°F. Only attempt if starting before 4 AM
• Winter: North Rim road closed mid-October to mid-May. South to Phantom Ranch and back is still possible.

Logistics

• Shuttle: Trans-Canyon Shuttle ($100/person) runs between rims May–October
• Permits: Required for overnight camping; apply early (lottery system)
• Phantom Ranch: Lottery for cabins/canteen meals opens 15 months ahead
• Emergency: Ranger stations at Indian Garden and Phantom Ranch

Common Mistakes

1. Starting too late in the day
2. Underestimating the climb out
3. Not carrying enough food or electrolytes
4. Wearing new/untested footwear
5. Skipping rest stops at shade structures