Grand Canyon National Park

Rim-to-Rim (R2R)

Cross the Grand Canyon from rim to rim in one of America's most iconic backpacking trips

Distance

21-24 miles

Difficulty

Advanced

Elevation Change

~10,500 ft

Best Season

May-Oct

Route Overview

The Rim-to-Rim (R2R) is one of the most legendary hikes in North America. The classic route crosses the Grand Canyon from the North Rim to the South Rim (or vice versa), traversing approximately 21-24 miles with roughly 10,500 feet of cumulative elevation change. The most common variation uses the North Kaibab Trail from the North Rim, connects to the Colorado River at Phantom Ranch, then exits via the Bright Angel Trail or South Kaibab Trail to the South Rim.

While some extremely fit hikers attempt the R2R in a single day, the recommended approach for most people is 2-3 days with an overnight at Phantom Ranch or one of the river-level campsites. This allows time to acclimate, enjoy the canyon, and reduces the risk of heat-related illness.

The NPS strongly discourages attempting a one-day Rim-to-Rim hike, especially during summer months. Heat exhaustion, dehydration, and altitude sickness are real dangers. Plan this trip with the respect it deserves.

Route Options

Classic: North Kaibab → Bright Angel (21.7 mi)

The most popular variation. Descend 14 miles and 5,800 feet from the North Rim (8,297 ft) to the river (2,400 ft) via the North Kaibab Trail. Ascend 9.5 miles and 4,380 feet to the South Rim (6,800 ft) via the Bright Angel Trail. This is considered the "easier" direction because the steeper climb is on the shorter South side.

South Kaibab Exit: North Kaibab → South Kaibab (23.5 mi)

Same descent via North Kaibab, but exit via the South Kaibab Trail. This route is 2 miles longer but offers more dramatic scenery on the ascent. The South Kaibab has no water and no shade - plan accordingly.

Reverse: South → North (21.7 mi)

Start from the South Rim and exit the North Rim. This direction puts the harder climb (5,800 ft) on the longer North Kaibab side. The North Rim is also closed in winter, which limits the season for this direction.

Permits & Logistics

Backcountry Permit: Required for all overnight stays below the rim. Apply through the Grand Canyon backcountry permit system on recreation.gov. The lottery opens February 1 each year.

Phantom Ranch: Lodging and meals at Phantom Ranch can be reserved through the Phantom Ranch lottery system. Reservations are extremely competitive and are available via lottery 15 months in advance.

Shuttle: Since you start and finish at different rims, you need transportation logistics. Options include:

Trans-Canyon Shuttle: Seasonal shuttle service between North and South Rims (typically May-October). Reserve in advance.
Private Vehicle: Drive between rims yourself (~4.5 hours via AZ-67 and US-89/AZ-64). Road may be seasonally closed.
Arizona Trail Shuttle Services: Various commercial shuttles operate in the area.

Water: Water is available at Phantom Ranch and along the Bright Angel Trail (seasonal stations). The North Kaibab has water at the trailhead and Roaring Springs (seasonal). Carry at least 3-4 liters between confirmed water sources.

North Rim Season: The North Rim facilities and roads close December 1 through May 14 (weather dependent). Plan your R2R within this window if starting from the North Rim.

Training & Preparation

Physical Fitness: You should be able to hike 15+ miles with 4,000+ feet of elevation gain comfortably. Train with loaded day hikes on steep terrain for at least 8-12 weeks before your trip.
Heat Acclimation: The canyon floor can be 20-30°F hotter than the rim. If hiking in summer, start before dawn and plan to be in shade or done by midday.
Gear: Trekking poles are essential - they save your knees on the descent. Bring a wide-brim hat, sunscreen, electrolyte supplements, and a headlamp for pre-dawn starts.
Foot Care: Break in your boots well before the trip. The descent is brutal on toenails - trim them short and consider toe caps.
Altitude: The rims are at 7,000-8,300 feet. Arrive a day early if possible to acclimate, especially if coming from sea level.

⚠ Critical Safety Warning

The NPS rescues 250+ hikers per year in Grand Canyon. The #1 mistake is underestimating the hike back up. The ascent takes roughly twice as long as the descent. Turn around if you're running low on water, feeling ill, or if the heat is overwhelming.

Summer (June-August) temperatures at river level regularly exceed 110°F (43°C). Heat stroke is fatal. Hike early, carry electrolytes, and know the signs of heat exhaustion: nausea, headache, confusion, and cessation of sweating.

External Resources

Return to: Arizona Backpacking Regions