Tips for Hiking the Grand Canyon

by Sedona Red Rock Treks Hiking Tours in Sedona, Grand Canyon, and Antelope

Do you plan to hike the Grand Canyon? It is an exhilarating yet strenuous experience. Even the United States National Park Service (NPS) website warns that "there are no easy trails into or out of the Grand Canyon!"

With that in mind, here are a few tips to help you make the most of this iconic Sedona Red Rock hike:

Carry Enough Water

Although water stops are available on some trails, you should never skimp on your water when attempting a Grand Canyon hike. The amount of water you will need to carry will vary depending on the season, but the NPS advises that hikers carry and drink about a gallon of water per day during the summer months.

Pack the Essentials

If you are like most hikers, you don't want to weigh down your backpack with unnecessary items. However, there are a few hiking items that can be a lifesaver—literally. These items include:

Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)
Spray bottle for quick cool-downs
Navigation tools such as a map and compass
Knife or multi-tool
Lighter/matches and firestarter
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
SPF-rated lip balm
Insect repellent
Basic first-aid supplies

Get There Early

Grand Canyon National Park is packed with many visitors around sunset. Therefore, get there early to get the best view without being obstructed by a swarm of people.

Walk Slowly

Take your time if you are hiking down to the bottom of the canyon. Set a moderate, leisurely pace for yourself. Allow yourself plenty of time, so you don't have to rush—rushing will only exhaust you and deplete your water supply more quickly.

Visit During the Shoulder Season

Summers at the Grand Canyon are jam-packed. Even if you get there early, there will be a big crowd, so consider visiting during the shoulder season. That way, you will not have to deal with the blistering heat or the hordes of visitors.

Want to Camp? Book Now!

If you want to camp in the Grand Canyon, make your reservations now because campsites fill up fast! Phantom Ranch (the main lodge at the bottom of the Grand Canyon) is undergoing renovations and has limited capacity due to COVID safety measures.

Be Prepared

It is worth noting that hiking the Grand Canyon can be incredibly exhausting, even for physically fit people. When you combine the Grand Canyon's elevation (7,000 feet at the South Rim and 8,000 feet at the North Rim), intense summer temperatures (with summer daytime highs reaching 100 °F at the bottom of the canyon), and steep, rocky terrain, you have one of the most strenuous hikes in the world. So be aware of your limits and plan your hike accordingly.

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