Backpacking Trip Overview
Our 3-day, 2-night backpacking trip to Havasupai Garden is the perfect choice for a summer hike into the Grand Canyon or as your first backpacking adventure in the park, regardless of the season. Over three days, you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey, spending two nights at the lush, shaded oasis of Havasupai Garden.
The adventure begins as we descend the famous Bright Angel Trail, winding our way down to Havasupai Garden, a spot historically used by the Havasupai Indians for seasonal agriculture. Here, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and expansive views stretching to the North Rim, you’ll feel immersed in the canyon’s beauty.
On the second day, we embark on an exhilarating day hike to the Colorado River, where you’ll soak in breathtaking views and experience the canyon’s natural wonders, including creeks, springs, and serene oases. The day concludes with another delightful dinner amidst the stunning canyon scenery.
Finally, on day three, we’ll make our way back up the Bright Angel Trail, carrying with us the memories of an incredible Grand Canyon adventure. This trip offers a perfect blend of challenge, beauty, and tranquility, making it an ideal choice for families and first-time backpackers alike.
Itinerary
- Day 1: The adventure truly begins as you embark on the Bright Angel Trail. This portion of the hike covers 4.8 miles, descending a total of 3,000 feet through a series of switchbacks until you reach the Tonto Plateau. Your destination for the day is Havasupai Garden, a cool and shaded oasis historically significant for its perennial spring that once watered the ancient Havasupai gardens. After setting up camp, you will enjoy a delicious dinner while watching the sun set over the western horizon of the Grand Canyon.
- Day 2: You’ll start with a hearty breakfast and aim for an early departure to take advantage of the cooler morning temperatures. Today’s hike leads you to the Colorado River at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, with a distance of over 6 miles and an elevation change of 1,500 feet. As you follow the enchanting Garden Creek, lined with hanging gardens and waterfalls, you will encounter a challenging series of switchbacks known as “The Devil’s Corkscrew.” Continuing along Pipe Creek, you will eventually arrive at the banks of the Colorado River. If time permits, you may extend your hike to Bright Angel Campground and Phantom Ranch, or enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch by the river before returning to your camp for the night. It’s important to note that from November 4, 2024, to May 14, 2025, the hike to the Colorado River will be closed due to trail conditions. During this time, the trek will instead follow the scenic Tonto Trail, providing expansive 360-degree views and incredible overlooks of the Colorado River.
- Day 3: You will have a leisurely morning and a satisfying breakfast before beginning your ascent back to the South Rim. The 4.8-mile hike along the Bright Angel Trail will allow for reflection on the incredible journey you have just completed. As you reach the rim, take a moment to gaze back at the breathtaking landscape of the Grand Canyon and savor the sense of accomplishment from this unforgettable experience.
What's Included
- Professional guide services
- All necessary permits
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping bags, etc.)
- Meals and snacks during the trip
- First-aid kit and emergency supplies
