To participate in these adventures, strong fitness levels and some hiking experience are required.
For the 2-Day Private Backpacking Adventure in the Grand Canyon, you have to be comfortable with being active for more than 5 hours per day and have extensive previous hiking experience. Although this tour is generally less strenuous than the longer tours below, it is only because of the shorter duration. During the two days, you will hike for about 19 miles (30 km) for a total of around 11.5 hours. The total elevation gain during your two days in Grand Canyon will be about 5,050 ft (1,540 m).
For the Hermit Trail tour, you will be hiking for 8-10 miles (13-16 km) a day for 4-5 days, with up to 3,400 ft (1,040 m) in daily elevation change. You will be hiking through moderately rugged terrain with moderate height exposure while carrying a 35-45 lb (15-20 kg) pack.
For the Grandview Trek tour, you will be hiking up to 6 miles (8 km) a day for 4-5 days, with up to 3,500 ft (1,070 m) in daily elevation change. You will be hiking through moderately rugged terrain with very significant height exposure while carrying a 35-45 lb (15-20 kg) pack. This hike isn’t recommended for anyone who dislikes heights and extreme drop-offs.
We just got home after completing the 4-day backpacking trip along the Grand Canyon’s Hermit Loop with Wildland Trekking. It was a once-in-a-lifetime, unforgettable experience. Thanks to detailed packing instructions on the Wildland website, and suggestions for training, we were well-prepared for our journey into the Grand Canyon. Our guide, Tolman, was very knowledgeable about the Canyon. He prepared amazing meals every night that went far beyond freeze-dried camping packets. He made sure we always had plenty of filtered water. He made sure everyone in the group felt included. We always felt very safe with Tolman, which allowed us to relax and enjoy this memorable journey. We highly recommend Wildland Trekking (and ask for Tolman if you can), and we will certainly be using them for future adventures!!