Grand Canyon National Park, North Bass, AZ

Trip Description

Weather

Weather is always an important concern when backpacking, especially in the Grand Canyon. October is a great to visit weather-wise as it's generally still not too cold on the North Rim and not too hot in the canyon. Be prepared for freezing weather or even snow on the rim, but also be prepared for 100 degrees and little water in the canyon. Chances are, neither will happen but we must be prepared for each.

Trip Leaders

Cost

$1400 per person double occupancy. Here, double occupancy means that you will share a hotel room with another trip participant. You will also be responsible for transportation to and from Las Vegas McCarran Airport (LAS) as well as personal equipment, restaurant meals and any gratuities for guides.

Covered expenses include 2 hotel night, backcountry reservations, 6 days of trail meals, ground transportation, National Park permits, fees and awesome guides.

Difficulty (Please Read)

The Grand Canyon can be extremely difficult and forbidding. The temperatures can be freezing or over 100 degrees. There is little to no shade in some areas, so you may be exposed to the beating sun for extended periods. Sun block is not sufficient for this, you must bring a wide brimmed hat, long sleeve shirt and long pants.

Furthermore, we will be dry-camping (no water) on 2 nights. Water may not be available for 2 days. It will be imperative to carry up to 2 gallons of water (16 pounds). Carrying the extra weight makes your full pack even heavier. Elevation gains and losses are dramatic. Expect to gain or lose over 2800' vertical on some days. In order to do this, you will need to be sufficiently hydrated. Plus, your feet must remain in good shape. Blisters and unclipped toenails will cripple you and make progress extremely slow and painful so be mindful of hot spots as they develop.

If you have a fear of heights, some of this trail may paralyze you with fear. Although most people hike this trail without issue, those with a heightened sense of fear at drop-offs may not fare well.

Training tips

Note

This is only a tentative itinerary that's subject to change. The park doesn't approve itineraries until 2 months before the trip. Because of this, we may have to run this trip a few days earlier or later, but this is the itinerary we are applying for so it's presented here. Obviously this makes it difficult for you (and us) to plan if your schedule is not somewhat flexible. We will let you know any changes as soon as we know them.

This is the 3rd of 3 Fitpacking trips to the Grand Canyon this year. S