Grand Canyon Rim to Rim Backpack

Grand Canyon Rim to Rim Backpack
Leader:Wayne Ranney
Dates*: September 30–October 5, 2010 (5 days / 4 nights)
Cost: $1010 Members/$1070 Nonmembers
Difficulty: Strenuous

Cost includes transportation, meals, permits, and group gear.

*Trip dates are tentative until five months prior to departure, when MNA is eligible to confirm dates with the National Park Service. Please wait for confirmation from Ventures staff before booking travel arrangements.

Hiking rim to rim is to many the ultimate Grand Canyon experience. Time travel across the Grand Canyon with one of MNA’s amazing educators: former backcountry ranger, geologist, and MNA Trustee Wayne Ranney or longtime Grand Canyon researcher and ecologist Bill Leibfried. Their intimate knowledge of the earth’s most spectacular gorge brings to life the canyon’s human history, ecology, flora, fauna, and geology. Camp on the North Rim, then start down the North Kaibab Trail and camp one night at Cottonwood, two nights at Phantom Ranch where mules resupply the group, and finally
Indian Gardens. This strenuous hike includes six to eight miles of hiking per day, significant elevation loss and gain, and is recommended for beginning and experienced backpackers in good physical condition.

Banner photo by Jason Quinn.

Pre-Trip Information Packet (PDF Downloads)

» Medical/Waiver [33 KB]

Wayne Ranney Wayne Ranney’s passion for Southwest geology took root during his years as a backcountry ranger in the Grand Canyon. His association with MNA began in 1978, as a research assistant in the Geology Department. In 1982, he joined the Ventures program. Read more…

“Everything was so organized! Great staff and guides. I was very impressed with the staff and how quickly they respond if you have questions or concerns. They were just great and I couldn’t wait to meet them.”—B.M.

“Having a geologist interpret the Grand Canyon and available for questions was terrific and why I joined the trip initially. I wasn’t disappointed.”—M.R.