Grand Canyon Backcountry Permit

crowds picked up fast on Grand Canyon Rim to River

Feb 7-7, 20261 person1 min read

R

Rami Taha

1 reports

4.0

Difficulty

3

Scenery

5

Trail Conditions

3

Grand Canyon Rim to River was my first serious permit and it was amazing. We went Bright Angel down to river camps with a South Kaibab exit starting at 4:45 AM. Wind on exposed ridges eased after sunrise and made pacing simple. Upper switchbacks held some icy patches before sun hit them. Overall 4/5. Difficulty 3/5 scenery 5/5. Miles are earned, not given.

Conditions at Time of Trip

Feb 2026

Weather

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

Trail

Upper switchbacks held some icy patches before sun hit them.

Water

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

Crowds

Moderate

💡Tips from the Trip

💡

General

•Bring one extra liter.
•Start earlier than you think.

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