GRAND CANYON HIKER An Inn-to-Inn, Hiking Adventure into one of the World’s Greatest Natural Wonders
Theodore Roosevelt called the Grand Canyon "the one great sight which every American should see."No other place captures the spirit and fascination of the American West more than this magnificent wonder of the world.There is no better way to experience it than on foot; at a pace that invites exploration, awakens the senses, and captures the essence of the outdoors.This imaginative adventure captures the splendour of the Grand Canyon's South Rim and its most revered tributary -- Havasu Canyon, an isolated oasis of thundering waterfalls and pristine pools.This getaway is ideal for both the light hiker and the more adventurous, as most days have longer and more demanding options.
ITINERARY
DAY 1 West Rim Trail, Yavapai Lodge on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon Our group assembles at 12:30 p.m. at the Days Inn I-40 in Flagstaff, Arizona.After a brief orientation, we drive across the Kaibab Plateau to the Grand Canyon for a walk on the West Rim Trail.Our route leads us to a series of viewpoints, each offering a different perspective of the ever-changing, colourful 4,000-foot chasm.If the timing is right, we will watch the setting sun dance across the temples and intricate sandstone formations. Following dinner, enjoy a walk under the clear star-lit skies along the canyon rim.Our home for the next three nights is Yavapai Lodge, located a short walk from "land's end." Rim Hike: 3.5 miles, elevation gain negligible
DAY 2 South Kaibab Trail, Yavapai Lodge This morning we descend into the heart of the Grand Canyon on the South Kaibab Trail.Our winding path leads us to Cedar Ridge and the spectacular Skeleton Point.For those looking for a leisurely day, we will return to the lodge for evening of relaxation and exploration along the rim. After sunset, enjoy a gourmet dinner at the acclaimed 5-star El Tovar Restaurant, overlooking the canyons’ rim! Moderately Easy Option: South Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge [3 miles, 1160 feet of elevation loss, then gain] Moderate Option: South Kaibab Trail to Skeleton Point [6 miles, 1800 feet of elevation loss, then gain]
DAY3 Hermit’s Trail, Yavapai Lodge Today we hike the historic Hermit’s Trail, named after Louis Boucher who mined copper in this small side canyon for over 20 years at the turn of the century.Our descent passes through a visual timetable of geologic formations. Dripping Springs is our lunch time destination. As an option, we may continue on to Santa Maria Springs, a spectacular panoramic of the canyon's North Rim. In the evening, we will dine in one of the South Rim’s restaurants after watching the setting sun light up the canyon. Hermit’s Trail [7.5 miles, 1400 feet of elevation loss, then gain] Option [additional 2.5 miles, 400 feet of elevation loss, then gain]
DAY 4 Havasu Canyon, Havasupai Lodge, in Supai Village On day four, we begin our three-day exploration of Havasu Canyon, an oasis of clear running streams, lush vegetation, travertine-lined pools and sparkling cascades. We will experience a culture lost in time as the Havasupai Indians have wisely decided not to allow a road to invade their wild and pristine canyon home.The only way in is by foot, horse or helicopter.We descend the different sedimentary layers carrying only light daypacks (our luggage will be transported by mule train) to the remote and unique Havasupai Lodge.This hike follows the twisting canyon of red desert walls down into lush woodlands set along the turquoise tinted river that feed the falls. Hike to Supai Village [8 miles, 2000 feet of elevation loss]
DAY 5 Mooney Falls, Havasupai Lodge Today's journey begins alongside Havasu Creek.We pass a series of waterfalls: first the cascading Navajo falls, then twin towering falls of Havasu, next down the cliff's edge to the 200-foot Mooney falls and finally a secluded Beaver Falls.The most spectacular, Mooney Falls, plummets 200 feet into terraced aquamarine pools.The falls makes for a perfect picnic location and a refreshing swim. Enjoy a carefree afternoon in this picturesque setting or we'll continue downstream to Beaver Falls. Mooney Falls [4 miles, elevation gain negligible] Moderate Option: (Spring-time only) [additional 3 miles round trip to Beaver Falls]
DAY 6 Hualapai Hilltop, Flagstaff Bidding farewell to this canyon paradise, we hike back up to Hualapai Hilltop.Before you go, be sure to send off a postcard; Supai is the only spot in America where mail is transported via a mule pack train.Back on the plateau rim, we'll shuttle to Flagstaff for our trip conclusion at approximately 6:00 p.m. Hualapai Hilltop Hike [8 miles, 2000 feet of elevation gain]
TOUR DETAILS
Trip Type: Inn-to-Inn Trip Length: 6 days/5 nights Trip Level: Moderately Easy, with 3 days of Moderate options Gateway City: Flagstaff or Phoenix, AZ (2 hours south of Flagstaff) Meeting Time and Place: 12:00 p.m. at Days Inn I-40, Flagstaff, AZ.Please have lunch prior to our meeting and arrive ready to hike.We recommend wearing hiking boots with ankle support that have been broken-in, and wool or wool-blend socks coupled with a thin liner sock. Trip Conclusion: Approximately 6:00 p.m. at the Flagstaff Airport or the Days Inn I-40, Flagstaff, AZ. I Trip Fees Include: All meals (dinner Day 1-lunch Day 6), all accommodations (double occupancy), T-shirt, water bottle, support vehicle, historical information packet, National Park fees, professional guides.
