5 Epic Backpacking Trips in the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is one of the best places to test your backpacking stamina. Any trip into the canyon means you'll be losing and gaining some serious elevation and the although there is the occasional oasis or shaded respite from the heat, you're likely to be exposed to the elements for much of your trek. It'll be tough, but trust us, every step along the way will be 100% worth it in the end. The immense beauty from the canyon rim will blow you away and once you reach the base of the canyon, you'll feel like you're in another world. Make the short hike into the famous and relaxing Havasu Falls area or take on the formidable Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim and cover 47 miles and 10,000+ ft. of elevation gain. Whichever one of these backpacking trips you choose, your adventure will be epic.

1. Backpack to Havasu Falls

Photo: Jason Hatfield

2. Backpack the Grand Canyon: Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim

Photo: Rob Witt

3. Backpack to the Grand Canyon’s Cremation Canyon

Photo: Tiffany Nguyen

4. Backpack the Bright Angel Trail to Indian Garden and Bright Angel Campground

Photo: Nick Tort

5. Backpack the Grand Canyon’s South Rim

Photo: Sri Gangam

Cover photo: Nick Tort