Arizona
Hiking Grand Canyon from Rim to River: An Adventure to Phantom Ranch
Program No. 8144RJ
Hike and learn about the ancient landscapes of the Grand Canyon on some of its most awe-inspiring trails. Plus, spend two nights within the Canyon at historic Phantom Ranch!
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This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
6 days
5 nights
13 meals
5B 4L 4D
1
Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Grand Canyon - South Rim
2
Packing Techniques, Hiking Ethics & Safety, Practice Hike
Grand Canyon - South Rim
3
Hike to Phantom Ranch
Phantom Ranch
4
Layover Day, Choice of Elective Hikes, Free Time
Phantom Ranch
5
Big Climb to The Rim, Farewell Dinner
Grand Canyon - South Rim
6
Program Concludes, Independent Departures
Grand Canyon - South Rim
At a Glance
Hiking in the Grand Canyon is one of the most rewarding experiences for any seasoned backpacker and shoulder season hikes provide an opportunity for solitude and scenery not found during other times of the year. On this program, hike into the Grand Canyon and enjoy expert-led presentations and day hikes on the rim. At the bottom of the canyon, spend two nights at Phantom Ranch beneath towering rock walls, under ancient cottonwoods and adjacent to Bright Angel Creek.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Challenging
I love pushing myself, and I can keep a steady pace on rugged and steep terrain. This is as challenging as it gets? Great. Let’s do this. At the end of the day, I want to feel like I’ve had a real workout.
Micro Group
These adventures feature our smallest group size, with 12 participants or fewer.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Spend four days hiking in the Grand Canyon; travel down the South Kaibab Trail and back up the Bright Angel Trail; spend a day at Phantom Ranch hiking in the inner Canyon.
- Enjoy rare reservations at remote and historic Phantom Ranch.
- Hike with naturalists who truly know and love Grand Canyon; listen to canyon and river stories and learn about your surroundings a vertical mile deep into this natural wonder.
General Notes
For less-strenuous Grand Canyon hiking programs, see "Hiking Grand Canyon: Adventures On and Below the South Rim" (#6112) or "Hiking Granite Gorge and Havasupai" (#7704) Special cancellation policy applies. Call or go online for details. Due to the nature of this program, listening devices are not available.
Suggested Reading List
(13 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Hiking Grand Canyon from Rim to River: An Adventure to Phantom Ranch
Program Number: 8144
An Introduction to Grand Canyon Prehistory
People have inhabited Grand Canyon for the past twelve thousand years. Evidence of their lives exists throughout the canyon; but it is up to their ancestors and archaeologists to interpret those remains for us. This book provides a popular look at the architecture, art, and tools of prehistoric Puebloan peoples, as well as information about modern-day Native American tribes. With illustrations and color photographs.
I Am the Grand Canyon: The Story of the Havasupai People
I Am the Grand Canyon is the story of the Havasupai people. From their origins among the first group of Indians to arrive in North America some 20,000 years ago to their epic struggle to regain traditional lands taken from them in the nineteenth century, the Havasupai have a long and colorful history. The story of this tiny tribe once confined to a toosmall reservation depicts a people with deep cultural ties to the land, both on their former reservation below the rim of the Grand Canyon and on the surrounding plateaus.
In the spring of 1971, the federal government proposed incorporating still more Havasupai land into Grand Canyon National Park. At hearings that spring, Havasupai Tribal Chairman Lee Marshall rose to speak. "I heard all you people talking about the Grand Canyon," he said. "Well, you're looking at it. I am the Grand Canyon!" Marshall made it clear that Havasu Canyon and the surrounding plateau were critical to the survival of his people; his speech laid the foundation for the return of thousands of acres of Havasupai land in 1975.
I Am the Grand Canyon is the story of a heroic people who refused to back down when facing overwhelming odds. They won, and today the Havasupai way of life quietly continues in the Grand Canyon and on the surrounding plateaus.
Living at the Edge: Explorers, Exploiters, and Settlers of the Grand Canyon Region
A comprehensive look at the pioneer history of the Grand Canyon Region, from its earliest residents to the creation of the national park at the end of the pioneer era (circa 1920). Included are close to two hundred historic photographs, many never published before, and 12 custom maps of the region. 184pp
Grand Canyon: Time Below the Rim
Prepared by the Book Division of Arizona Highways magazine, this book is written and photographed by 2 of the leading authorities on the subject matter.
There's no place on earth like the Grand Canyon, and there's no book about the Canyon like this one. "Grand Canyon: Time Below the Rim" connects you with remote sections of the Canyon most people will never see: the waterfalls, the streams, the thousands of side canyons, the prehistoric rock formations, the rock art and other remains of an ancient civilization, and the entire course of the Colorado River through the Canyon.
Carving Grand Canyon: Evidence, Theories, and Mystery
Ranney explains how rivers in general can physically carve canyons, looks chronologically at the numerous theories that have been presented by successive generations of geologists regarding the Grand Canyon's formation, and describes a plausible sequence of geologic events that could create such a landscape. Numerous color photographs, detailed illustrations, and maps are provided. Annotation ©2005 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR 160pp; 2nd edition 2012.
Field Guide to the Grand Canyon
This book describes and illustrates the area's plants and animals, and offers fascinating in-depth information on the natural history and geology of this dramatic region. 272pp
The Emerald Mile: The Epic Story of the Fastest Ride in History Through the Heart of the Grand Canyon
In the spring of 1983, massive flooding along the length of the Colorado River confronted a team of engineers at the Glen Canyon Dam with an unprecedented emergency that may have resulted in the most catastrophic dam failure in history. In the midst of this crisis, the decision to launch a small wooden dory named “The Emerald Mile” at the head of the Grand Canyon, just fifteen miles downstream from the Glen Canyon Dam, seemed not just odd, but downright suicidal.
The Emerald Mile, at one time slated to be destroyed, was rescued and brought back to life by Kenton Grua, the man at the oars, who intended to use this flood as a kind of hydraulic sling-shot. The goal was to nail the all-time record for the fastest boat ever propelled—by oar, by motor, or by the grace of God himself—down the entire length of the Colorado River from Lee’s Ferry to Lake Mead. Did he survive? Just barely. Now, this remarkable, epic feat unfolds here, in The Emerald Mile.
Over the Edge: Death in Grand Canyon
Gripping accounts of all known fatal mishaps in the most famous of the World's Seven Natural Wonders. Two veterans of decades of adventuring in Grand Canyon chronicle the first complete and comprehensive history of Canyon misadventures. These episodes span the entire era of visitation from the time of the first river exploration by John Wesley Powell and his crew of 1869 to that of tourists falling off its rims in Y2K. These accounts of the 550 people who have met untimely deaths in the Canyon set a new high water mark for offering the most astounding array of adventures, misadventures, and life saving lessons published between any two covers. Over the Edge promises to be the most intense yet informative book on Grand Canyon ever written.
Hiking the Grand Canyon’s Geology
Geologists Abbott and Cook (Prescott College, Prescott, AZ) present the Grand Canyon though scientists' eyes for rim walkers, day hikers, and serious backpackers. An overview introduces readers to the area's geological history, followed by detailed narratives of 18 hikes. For each hike the authors explore a geological theme, focusing on aspects of the canyon's evolution that are particularly well-illustrated along its length. Basic information such as trail length, elevation change, and difficulty level starts each chapter. Thoroughly illustrated with b&w photos and diagrams as well as 20 color plates. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR 304pp
The Exploration of the Colorado River and Its Canyons
Full text of Powell's 1,000-mile expedition down the fabled Colorado in 1869. Superb account of terrain, geology, vegetation, Indians, famine, mutiny, treacherous rapids, mighty canyons. 240 illustrations. 432pp
Beyond the Hundredth Meridian: John Wesley Powell and the Second Opening of the West
Here Wallace Stegner, a Pulitzer Prize-winner, gives us a thrilling account of Powell's struggle against western geography and Washington politics. We witness the successes and frustrations of Powell's distinguished career, and appreciate his unparalleled understanding of the West. "Stegner's most exciting work." (San Francisco Chronicle)
496pp
Down the Great Unknown: John Wesley Powell's 1869 Journey of Discovery and Tragedy Through the Grand Canyon
On May 24, 1869 a one-armed Civil War veteran, John Wesley Powell and a ragtag band of nine mountain men embarked on the last great quest in the American West. The Grand Canyon, not explored before, was as mysterious as Atlantis—and as perilous. The ten men set out from Green River Station, Wyoming Territory down the Colorado in four wooden rowboats. Ninety-nine days later, six half-starved wretches came ashore near Callville, Arizona.
Lewis and Clark opened the West in 1803, six decades later Powell and his scruffy band aimed to resolve the West’s last mystery. A brilliant narrative, a thrilling journey, a cast of memorable heroes—all these mark Down the Great Unknown, the true story of the last epic adventure on American soil.
Breaking Into the Current: Boatwomen of the Grand Canyon
In 1973, Marilyn Sayre gave up her job as a computer programmer and became the first woman in twenty years to run a commercial boat through the Grand Canyon. Georgie White had been the first, back in the 1950s, but it took time before other women broke into guiding passengers down the Colorado River. This book profiles eleven of the first full-season Grand Canyon boat women, weaving together their various experiences in their own words. Breaking Into the Current is a story of romance between women and a place.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
6 days
Program Begins
Grand Canyon - South Rim
Program Concludes
Grand Canyon - South Rim
Group Type
Micro Group
Meals
13
| 5B |
4L |
4D |
Activity Level
Hiking in the Grand Canyon is one of the most rewarding experiences for any seasoned backpacker and shoulder season hikes provide an opportunity for solitude and scenery not found during other times of the year. On this program, hike into the Grand Canyon and enjoy expert-led presentations and day hikes on the rim. At the bottom of the canyon, spend two nights at Phantom Ranch beneath towering rock walls, under ancient cottonwoods and adjacent to Bright Angel Creek.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Spend four days hiking in the Grand Canyon; travel down the South Kaibab Trail and back up the Bright Angel Trail; spend a day at Phantom Ranch hiking in the inner Canyon.
- Enjoy rare reservations at remote and historic Phantom Ranch.
- Hike with naturalists who truly know and love Grand Canyon; listen to canyon and river stories and learn about your surroundings a vertical mile deep into this natural wonder.
General Notes
For less-strenuous Grand Canyon hiking programs, see "Hiking Grand Canyon: Adventures On and Below the South Rim" (#6112) or "Hiking Granite Gorge and Havasupai" (#7704) Special cancellation policy applies. Call or go online for details. Due to the nature of this program, listening devices are not available.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Challenging
I love pushing myself, and I can keep a steady pace on rugged and steep terrain. This is as challenging as it gets? Great. Let’s do this. At the end of the day, I want to feel like I’ve had a real workout.
Micro Group
(12 Max)
These adventures feature our smallest group size, with 12 participants or fewer.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(13 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
6 days
5 nights
What's Included
13 meals | 5B | 4L | 4D |
1 expert-led lecture
7 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
5 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Grand Canyon - South Rim
Meals:
D
Stay:
Yavapai Lodge West
Activity Note
Lodge check-in available by 3:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
Program Registration: 5:00 pm. After you have your room assignment, come to the Road Scholar table in the lobby to register with the program staff and get your welcome packet containing the up-to-date schedule that reflects any changes, other important information, and to confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please ask for your packet when you check in. Orientation: 5:30 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. This physically strenuous program involves elevation gains up to 4,500 feet (equivalent to 341 stories) carrying a 15 to 20-pound pack up to 9.5 miles. There will be a practice hike on Day 2 for the Group Leader to assess each person’s ability level. Failure to complete the practice hike satisfactorily will prohibit continued participation. If you have concerns about your ability to participate successfully in this program, please see alternative suggestions on the Road Scholar website for other programs that hike the Grand Canyon. Grand Canyon winter hiking can be more challenging because of the chance of snow, ice, and cold. Feel free to bring your own ice-walkers. If needed, in-step crampons will be provided. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free Time” and “At Leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
At the Yavapai Lodge Dining Hall, we will have a group meal which will include an entree, salad, dessert and and non-alcoholic beverages; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night's rest for the day ahead.
Day
2
Packing Techniques, Hiking Ethics & Safety, Practice Hike
Location:
Grand Canyon - South Rim
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Yavapai Lodge West
Activity Note
Walking/hiking approx. 5 miles throughout the day: morning approx. 2 miles roundtrip; about 2 hours along rim, mostly flat paved trail. Practice hike is approx. 2 miles roundtrip; about 2 hours; steep, uneven, rocky trail; elevation change of roughly 2,000 feet, with packs. Attendance and performance, with all necessary gear, to Group Leader’s satisfaction is required for participation in subsequent hikes. Failure to satisfactorily complete practice hike will prohibit continued participation.
Breakfast:
Breakfast at the Yavapai Dining Hall opens at 7:00 am, and you are free to walk down for breakfast on your own. You will present your meal voucher at the start of the serving line and choose which entrée and side items you would like as you move through the line. Supplemental items such as yogurt and fruit, as well as beverages, are then available at the end of the line.
Morning:
After breakfast, we’ll gather with our Group Leaders for a discussion session that will cover gear packing techniques, "Leave No Trace" ethics, and hiking safety. IMPORTANT NOTE: In our morning discussion, we will cover the important topic of domestic/potable water availability and use at Phantom Ranch and how to come prepared for the possibility of restrictions which could be imposed at any time in the event of a potable water supply issue. Please read below in the SPECIAL NOTES ABOUT YOUR PROGRAM for a full discussion on this topic. Afterwards, we’ll join our Group Leader for a hike along the rim to acclimate to the elevation and prepare for our upcoming hike into the Canyon. Along the way, we’ll engage in a discussion of the area’s geologic and natural history.
Lunch:
At the Maswik Lodge Food Court in Grand Canyon Village.
Afternoon:
With our Group Leaders, we’ll set out on a practice hike down into the canyon with full packs. Descending over 1,000 feet into the canyon along the Bright Angel Trail, we’ll reach our turning point, and hike back up to the rim with minimal stops to rest. Along the way, we will see the historic Kolb Studio, several of Grand Canyon's uppermost rock layers, and we will continue our discussion of both the human and natural history of Grand Canyon. Upon reaching the top, we’ll have time for independent exploration of the historic Grand Canyon Village. Please note: The practice hike is important for the Group Leaders to assess everyone's ability to safely complete the hike. If you do not attend and complete the practice hike to the satisfaction of the Group Leader while carrying the weighted pack you will be carrying on subsequent hikes, you will NOT be allowed to hike to Phantom Ranch the next day.
Dinner:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. There are a number of dining venues to choose from in the park. If you are interested in dining at the El Tovar Hotel, note that advance reservations are required for both lunch and dinner. These reservations are best made as far in advance as possible (up to one month out). Call 928-638-2631 and ask for the El Tovar dining room, or visit https://www.grandcanyonlodges.com/dine/el-tovar-dining-room-and-lounge/.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for an early start in the morning.
Day
3
Hike to Phantom Ranch
Location:
Phantom Ranch
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Phantom Ranch
Activity Note
Use of park shuttle bus; riding approximately 3 miles on way; about 1/2 hour. Hiking approximately 7.5 miles throughout the day, with packs; between 6 and 8 hours; steep, uneven rocky trail; elevation decrease of roughly 4,800 feet.
Breakfast:
Breakfast at the Yavapai Dining Hall opens at 7:00 am, and you are free to walk down for breakfast on your own. You will present your meal voucher at the start of the serving line and choose which entrée and side items you would like as you move through the line. Supplemental items such as yogurt and fruit, as well as beverages, are then available at the end of the line.
Morning:
Once checked out of the lodge, we’ll board the park’s shuttle bus system and travel to the South Kaibab Trailhead, where we’ll begin the day's long but rewarding hike to Phantom Ranch, stopping periodically along the way to discuss geology, ecology, and human history. Our first major stop will be Ooh Aah Point—you'll see why it bears that name when we get there! We'll encounter the first of the two restrooms along our hike to Phantom Ranch a little farther down the trail at Cedar Ridge. Afterwards, we’ll continue down past Skeleton Point and navigate the seemingly endless switchbacks through the imposing Redwall Limestone (a geologic rock layer which forms one of the most prominent sheer cliffs within the canyon) to our lunch location at Tipoff, near the Tonto Trail junction. Tipoff features a shade structure and the second restroom along the South Kaibab Trail.
Lunch:
At the shade structure at Tipoff, we will have sack lunches including a sandwich, chips, and fruit.
Afternoon:
From our lunch stop, we will begin our steep descent into the canyon's Inner Gorge to the Black Bridge, which crosses the Colorado River to Phantom Ranch. Upon our arrival, we will check into our cabin.
Dinner:
At Phantom Ranch, we will all gather inside the Canteen dining room at our designated meal time for a plated dinner.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
4
Layover Day, Choice of Elective Hikes, Free Time
Location:
Phantom Ranch
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Phantom Ranch
Activity Note
Two possible hikes, each between 2 and 3 miles; between 2 and 3 hours, with day pack; steep, uneven, rocky trail; elevation change of between 200 and 1,000 feet depending on hike chosen.
Breakfast:
Breakfast will be served inside the Phantom Ranch Canteen dining room.
Morning:
Take the relaxing layover day in the depths of the canyon at Phantom Ranch to enjoy as you wish. For those who want to join, our Group Leaders will set out on two different elective hikes depending on group interest: the "Bridge-to-Bridge Loop" and the Clear Creek Trail to Phantom Overlook or beyond. Alternatively, you may wish to spend some time by yourself to absorb being at the bottom of the Grand Canyon by sitting along Bright Angel Creek, walking down to the Colorado River, taking photographs, or just relaxing.
Lunch:
Sack lunches along the trail, by the creek, or wherever else you may choose.
Afternoon:
Free time. This time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leaders will be happy to offer suggestions. You may wish to hike part way up the North Kaibab Trail or just kick back and enjoy the experience of being at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, one of the world's true natural wonders.
Dinner:
At Phantom Ranch, we will all gather inside the Canteen dining room at our designated meal time for a plated dinner.
Evening:
After dinner, we’ll have a short group meeting to discuss the logistics of the hike up the following morning. The remainder of the evening will be at leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and hiking transfer back up to the canyon rim in the morning.
Day
5
Big Climb to The Rim, Farewell Dinner
Location:
Grand Canyon - South Rim
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Yavapai Lodge West
Activity Note
Hiking approximately 9.5 miles throughout the day, with packs; between 6 and 9 hours; steep inclines uphill, uneven and rocky trail; elevation increase of roughly 4,500 feet.
Breakfast:
Breakfast will be served inside the Phantom Ranch Canteen dining room.
Morning:
Upon check-out from Phantom Ranch, we’ll gear up and hit the trail with our Group Leaders to begin the big climb up to the rim. The hike will last throughout the day and will climb about 4,500 feet over 9.5 miles. We’ll start by crossing the Silver Bridge and hike on the River Trail, built by the CCC. At the mouth of Pipe Creek and River Rest House, we’ll start up the Bright Angel Trail following Pipe Creek. We'll soon leave the creek to continue up Devil's Corkscrew, rejoining the creek at the top before entering the spectacular and lush Tapeats Narrows. Upon reaching the Tonto Platform at the top of the Tapeats Narrows, the midpoint of our climb at beautiful Havasupai Gardens comes into view.
Lunch:
Sack lunches along the trail at Havasupai Gardens.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we’ll continue our ascent up the Bright Angel Trail, climbing Jacob's Ladder to the top of the Redwall cliff and the 3-Mile Resthouse. Don't forget to glance up at the sky for a possible condor sighting, and back towards the Inner Gorge for a perspective on how far we have come. As we get closer to the rim, we’ll feel the sense of accomplishment grow until we finally reach the top. Upon arrival, we’ll check back in to the lodge and enjoy some time to relax and freshen up with a well-deserved shower before boarding the van for a short drive to dinner.
Dinner:
At a nearby restaurant, we'll enjoy plated meals for our celebratory dinner with an entrée and side, plus a choice of coffee, tea, or water; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
Once back at the lodge with our Group Leaders, we will have a program wrap-up and reflect on our experiences. Share some of your favorite experiences and accomplishments from the program with new Road Scholar friends. Be sure to prepare for check-out and departures in the morning.
Day
6
Program Concludes, Independent Departures
Location:
Grand Canyon - South Rim
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Lodge check-out by 11:00 a.m. Road Scholar vehicle departs for Flagstaff at 7:15 am to connect with the 9:30 am Flagstaff to Phoenix Airport Groome Shuttle. Grand Canyon to Flagstaff; 84 miles.
Breakfast:
Breakfast at the Yavapai Dining Hall opens at 7:00 am, and you are free to walk down for breakfast on your own. You will present your meal voucher at the start of the serving line and choose which entrée and side items you would like as you move through the line. Supplemental items such as yogurt and fruit, as well as beverages, are then available at the end of the line.
Morning:
Program concludes after breakfast. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
13 Meals
5 Breakfasts
4 Lunches
4 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Apr 21, 2024 - Apr 26, 2024
Participant Reviews
Based on 12 Reviews
Sort By:
Unfortunately, due to a pipeline break, we learned Phantom Ranch was closed our second day there. So, we were unable to spend two nights there. However, our excellent guides, Joel and Kyle did an amazing job with alternative plans! They are incredible. They were so knowledgeable, kind, inspiring considerate, organized and fun to be with! I definitely recommend this trip! Maybe wait until pipeline is replaced. Another thing, it is serious hiking. I trained hard before and have hiked the 102 mile Cotswold Way. We did 1.5 mile down S.Kaibab and I had great difficulty climbing back up. I just had a small daypack, but Kyle still had to wrangle that for me. I don't think I would have made it back up from Phantom Ranch with a full backpack! So, if you haven't hiked a lot in high elevation, this isn't for you! Trust me. I can hike very long distances, but difficult climbs with elevation are a whole different thing. Others did very well, but they had hiked in very high altitudes.
The Rim Trail (13 miles) was my favorite! RS offers other GC trips if this one doesn't match your ability.
— Review left May 3, 2024
Hiking from Rim to River is the perfect way to experience all the Grand Canyon has to offer. Road Scholar does an excellent job of making this experience possible for all who want to check this adventure off their bucket list.
— Review left April 24, 2023
This program was everything I had hoped for. Extraordinary leaders who shared their boundless knowledge and fostered camaraderie, laughter and a sense of adventure.
The hike was challenging, but I always felt supported by Lisa and Kristin and my fellow participants.
Follow the tips from Road Scholar on how to train for this adventure, and you will finish it with a wonderful sense of accomplishment!
Chris
Sedona, AZ
— Review left November 21, 2022
It was challenging physically but worth it all because of the participants and the majesty of the Grand Canyon,
— Review left November 20, 2022
Truly and outstanding experience.
The guides were first rate in focus on hydration, safety, knowledge (geology/botany), and getting to know the group. Very, very nice group that got along extremely well. The hike itself was unforgettable, and the scenery spectacular. The hiking schedule and preparation/instruction could not have been better. The food was great too.
The Grand Canyon hike to Phantom Ranch and back has been on my hiking bucket list for over 50 years, and it didn't disappoint!
Nice work, Road Scholar
Chuck from Washington State
— Review left March 20, 2020
Fantastic! If you can go on this trip do it! The arrangements, guiding and educational content were superb - and the adventure was outstanding. The preparatory phone call about two months before the program really helped me get ready for the hike. The hiking was well planned and paced. The cabin at Phantom Ranch was well equipped, comfortable and warm. The food there was great, especially since it all comes down on mules. (All of the food and accommodations were great, not just those at Phantom Ranch.)
— Review left March 4, 2020
This was a birthday challenge and an achievement for me. I missed my opportunity to do this hike in 2004 due to sickness and now I finally got my chance. Thanks to Road Scholar for offering this trip. I had two wonderful guides Norm and Slim. They were amazing. I had 6 other new friends with me on the journey. It was amazing to get to stay at Phantom Ranch for two nights and do some hikes down there. We had two astronomers on the trip who navigated the night sky for us. We were fortunate to get to stay in a Mary Coulter designed cabin and enjoyed both the beef stew and the NY strip steak.
We had ice the first 1 1/2 miles down on S. Kaibab and on Bright Angel Trail the last 1 1/2 miles up. Crampons did not work at all and we were ill prepared for the ice. Before the hike, I went to the general store and bought the only item they had for ice called Stabilicers which did work well on the ice. Any other hikers going to Grand Canyon in winter should go prepared with ice in mind. We needed layers and layers of clothes as we started in 11 degrees at the top and then it was about 40 degrees at the bottom. I had to buy better gloves and hand and feet warmers at the general store before we went down.
It was the hardest hike of my life, I am so glad I did it. I said it was harder than having a baby but after a week at home, I am thinking I could totally do it again. I did the same thing after having a baby. Short term memory loss is a good thing sometimes, thus two children.
Note to Grand Canyon officials, the condition of the South Kaibab trail was really terrible, such deep drop-offs of 2 1/2 to 3 feet deep. Difficult to manage for a 5'2'' gal. It needs lots of repair. It reminded me of how my home area treats potholes, it is very short-sighted repair if you just fill it up with dirt as the mules kick it right back out as they travel up and down the trail. I was told it needs to be filled with cobblestones and dirt and then tamped down.
— Review left February 17, 2020
Hiking the Grand Canyon to Phantom Ranch was a fantastic & unique trip! I truly enjoyed the physical challenge of the hiking as well as the lectures on the geology & history of the park. A great adventure that highly recommend!!
— Review left February 13, 2020
It was, as advertised, very challenging. I think, however, that the difficulty was adequately described. The call from Norm helped to know that our training was correct.
— Review left February 10, 2020
We thoroughly enjoyed our Road Scholar trip hiking down to Phantom Ranch. Having leaders who are familiar with the area and the hike itself, allowed us to relax and enjoy the challenge of the hike, and also the beauty of the canyon.
— Review left November 25, 2019
This trip exceeded our expectations! It was challenging (yet-doable), educational, and extraordinarily beautiful. Our guides Jeff and Ellen were fantastic leaders, wonderful individuals, and were incredibly knowledgable. I have wanted to do this trip for years, and Road Scholar made the experience better than it would have been if we had planned the trip on our own. I highly recommend it!
— Review left November 24, 2019
"Hiking Grand Canyon from Rim to River: An Adventure to Phantom Ranch" is a program that met its' stated goals both educationally and physically. Learning some of the various theory's about how the Grand Canyon came to be, is a staggering timeline when compared to the Earth's age. Physically, I trained long and hard for this program. Hence, I was able to enjoy the satisfaction of my surroundings, and the endurance it took to climb Corkscrew, Jacob's Ladder, and Heartbreak Hill. The leadership team was excellent! Overall, this was a rich experience I will always treasure!
— Review left February 9, 2019
