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Grand Canyon Backcountry Permit

Grand Canyon Rim to River (day) - we moved slower than planned and it was still a good day

Feb 13-13, 20265 people1 min read
D

David Kensington

2 reports

4.0
Difficulty
5
Scenery
4
Trail Conditions
4
Logistics for Grand Canyon Rim to River We started around 5:35 AM and the early start made the whole day easier. Route we took: South Kaibab descent with one night at Bright Angel area. We kept the permit handy and it saved time when someone asked to see it. Conditions were straightforward: Clear skies gave us big temperature swings between rim and river. Main corridor tread was firm and easy to follow all day. We treated every water stop as optional and stayed over-prepared. Nothing surprising, in a good way. If you want less stress: Download your map before you lose service. Ratings: overall 4/5, difficulty 5/5, scenery 4/5, conditions 4/5. Tips - Have a turnaround time before you get committed to the hardest section. - Start earlier than you think if you want space on the first mile. - Poles help more than people admit on slick or steep exits. - Download your map before you lose service. - Carry a small trash bag. You will find micro-trash.

Conditions at Time of Trip

Feb 2026

Weather

Clear skies gave us big temperature swings between rim and river.

Trail

Main corridor tread was firm and easy to follow all day.

Water

We treated every water stop as optional and stayed over-prepared.

Crowds

Crowded

💡Tips from the Trip

💡

General

  • Have a turnaround time before you get committed to the hardest section.
  • Start earlier than you think if you want space on the first mile.
  • Poles help more than people admit on slick or steep exits.
  • Download your map before you lose service.
  • Carry a small trash bag. You will find micro-trash.
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