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Grand Canyon Backcountry Permit

Grand Canyon Rim to River report: not what we expected

Feb 18-18, 20262 people1 min read
S

Steven Crawford

1 reports

5.0
Difficulty
3
Scenery
4
Trail Conditions
4
Base weight check before Grand Canyon Rim to River: We went North Kaibab to inner canyon camp with a next-day climb out starting at 6:00 AM. Wind on exposed ridges eased after sunrise and made pacing simple. Stone steps were dry by mid-morning but still rough on knees. Gear that worked: Hiking boots, Offline maps. Traction and poles were useful for the first shaded switchbacks. Preparation is everything.

Conditions at Time of Trip

Feb 2026

Weather

Wind on exposed ridges eased after sunrise and made pacing simple.

Trail

Stone steps were dry by mid-morning but still rough on knees.

Water

Tap lines moved quickly, still worth filling before exposed climbs.

Crowds

Empty

💡Tips from the Trip

💡

General

  • Do not trust parking to work out.
  • Take photos of the permit.
  • Carry a small trash bag.
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