GRAND CANYON | RIM TO RIM HIKE
Embark on one of the most iconic and rewarding hiking experiences in the world—crossing the Grand Canyon from North Rim to South Rim in a single day. This private adventure is crafted for those who seek a true physical and mental challenge, balanced with outstanding support, expert guidance, and exceptional comfort throughout.
We welcome both adventurers and their support team. Family members or friends who prefer not to complete the full hike can still be a meaningful part of the experience. Support guests will join the group for the Zion warm-up hike, then travel with our second guide to the South Rim. There, they’ll have the opportunity to hike partway into the canyon to meet the team as they emerge—sharing in the achievement and celebration.
Trek Summary
Hotel-based hikes
4 D / 3 N
Up To 4
THE WWTREK ASSURANCE | SUPPORTING YOU THROUGH THE CHALLENGE
Grand Canyon | Rim to Rim Hike Activity Rating: Extreme
The Challenge:
The Rim to Rim hike is an extreme one-day adventure covering over 23 miles of rugged terrain with significant elevation changes. Weather in the Grand Canyon can shift quickly, so being prepared for varying conditions is essential for your comfort and safety.
The Reassurance:
While this is a demanding challenge, our experienced guides will tailor the experience to your needs. We prioritize your well-being and can adjust pace or rest as needed. Enjoy luxurious lodges before and after the hike, where you can relax and recharge. Plus, private WWTrek vehicles provide support with hydration and freshening stations to keep you comfortable throughout this incredible journey.
The World Wide Trekking Difference
On our treks to Utah, we ensure our guests see the most they can within the timeline restrictions. Bringing them to as many National Parks as possible and staying in some of the nicest accommodations along the route, we strive to combine luxury and adventure in this scenic expedition.
WWTrek Accommodations
Throughout our Grand Canyon and Utah Mighty Five trek, we stay in a variety of high-standard hotels or lodges based on availability. One thing that can be guaranteed is a beautiful space to relax and unwind after long days on the trail. With pools, jacuzzis, and top-notch bedroom accommodations, you will not be disappointed.
WWTrek Meals
Dine at your lodge accommodations, along the trails in National Parks, or at local eateries. No matter your dietary restrictions or food preferences, the team at WWT will work to ensure you have more than enough to choose from.
WWTrek Team
Our team of highly trained professional Guides is here to help you every step of the way. From the first point of contact with the office through the end of your trekking experience with us, World Wide Trekking will work with you to ensure you feel comfortable and prepared to embark on your journey.
WWTrek Experience
We think it’s imperative to offer our guests the ability to hear from one another. This way, guests can get the nitty-gritty details about the trek… like finding out just how challenging that hike is!
“We explored southern Utah with WWT and had the very best time! Dean and his team were outstanding guides – the best! Every day we adventured into beautiful, stunning terrain and remote settings. The hiking was challenging and rewarding. Looking forward to the next adventure WWT!” – Mollie
“Great trip to the Might Five in S Utah! It’s hard to imagine that anything could have been better. Dean is such a great guide – knowledgeable, responsive, fun to be around, and unflappable. We had a lovely group of travelers, splendid weather, gorgeous scenery, yummy meals… hard to beat! Thanks WWTrekking for another fabulous trip, we’ll be back!” – Lisa
WWTrek Guest Services
World Wide Trekking boasts an extensive support crew and will accommodate any group size. At headquarters in Salt Lake City, our staff is dedicated to helping you every step of the way. If you’re planning your trip and have questions about which boots to buy, our adventure specialist is just a phone call away.
Trek Itinerary
Arrive in Utah & transfer to Zion
Arrive in Salt Lake City (SLC)
Private transfer to Springdale, Utah – gateway to Zion National Park
Settle in at the beautiful Desert Pearl Inn
Enjoy a welcome dinner with your guides and fellow trekkers
Overnight: Desert Pearl Inn – Springdale, UT
Meals: Lunch, Welcome Dinner
Zion National Park
Scenic group hike in Zion National Park
Distance: 6.33 miles
Ascent: 3,444 ft | Descent: 3,461 ft
After lunch, transfer to the Grand Canyon North Rim (or Kanab, UT)
Relax and prepare for the big day ahead
Overnight: Canyons Boutique Hotel – Kanab, UT
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Grand Canyon National Park
- Early morning start from North Kaibab Trailhead (~8,241 ft)
- Trek 23.5 miles through the heart of the canyon
- Total Descent: ~5,700 ft
- Total Ascent: ~4,380 ft (final 9.5 miles)
- Emerge triumphantly at the South Rim via Bright Angel Trail (~6,860 ft)
- Celebrate your achievement at the iconic El Tovar Lodge
Overnight: El Tovar Lodge – Grand Canyon South Rim
Meals: Breakfast, Trail Lunch, Celebration Dinner
Bryce Canyon National Park
- Relax on the drive back to Salt Lake City, enjoying time to reflect and share stories. Late evening departures or optional overnight available.
Meals: Breakfast, Tailgate Lunch on the road
Weather Notice
- Southern Utah is known for experiencing a variety of rapidly changing weather conditions. Please note that the itinerary is subject to change due to these weather patterns and the safety of the group. We pride ourselves in making the best of every single day.
What's Included
- Transportation by private vans
- WWTrek custom support trailer with camp kitchen
World Wide Trekking Lead Guide(s) and local guides based on group size
All services, tours, hikes, and excursion fees described in the itinerary
- National park and state park entry fees
- Rafting down the Colorado River
- All meals included during the scheduled itinerary
- Snacks provided throughout the trip
- Large coolers of ice water, an electrolyte drink mix, and soft drinks will be provided in the vehicle throughout the trip
- One complimentary well beverage during restaurant dinners; unlimited at outdoor cookout dinners
- Baggage handling throughout the adventure
- Pre-trip planning, customization, and consultation
- Gear List
- Fitness and Nutrition 6-week plan
Not Included
- International and domestic airfare
- Passport and visa fees (if applicable)
- Travel and medical insurance
- Meals other than those specified in the itinerary
- Primary liquors, specialty drinks, and cocktails
- Items of a personal nature: laundry, incidentals, etc.
- Expenses incurred due to circumstances outside of the control of World Wide Trekking
- Gratuities for guides
- Tourism Taxes When Applicable
The World Wide Trekking Difference
Difficulty Level
This is an extreme endurance challenge designed for experienced hikers in excellent physical condition. The Rim to Rim hike covers over 23 miles in a single day, with steep ascents and descents, variable weather, and rugged terrain. Participants should be well-prepared, physically fit, and ready for a demanding but deeply rewarding adventure. Our expert guides will support you every step of the way to help you safely achieve this incredible feat.
Expert Guides
Embark on your Grand Canyon adventure with confidence, guided by seasoned professionals who are as passionate about the canyon as they are about sharing its wonders. Our guides are more than navigators—they are storytellers, naturalists, and safety experts, dedicated to enriching your journey with insights into the canyon’s rich geology, diverse ecosystems, and cultural history. Their deep knowledge and unwavering support ensure that every step of your Rim to Rim experience is both safe and inspiring.
Luxury Accommodations
Our carefully selected lodges and inns offer a perfect blend of comfort and local charm, providing a restful retreat after each day’s adventure. From cozy boutique hotels in Zion to the historic elegance of the Grand Canyon’s El Tovar Lodge, you’ll enjoy warm hospitality and thoughtful touches designed to make your stay truly memorable.
Support Crew
We invite your support crew to join you on this incredible Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim Extreme Challenge! You will all kick off the adventure together with a stunning warm-up hike in Zion National Park before they see you off as you begin your trek from the North Rim. While you tackle the full rim-to-rim journey, your support guests will travel with our second guide to the South Rim, where they will hike in to meet you and provide encouragement as you ascend out of the canyon. This is a fantastic way for them to be part of your journey and share in this unforgettable experience.
WWTrek Vehicles
- Travel in PRIVATE WWTrek 15-passenger vans.
- Have access to a hydration station throughout your trek to ensure proper hydration in the Southern Utah heat. The hand washing station is set up in the back of the van for guest use throughout the trek.
- Our WWTrek Chuck Wagon Trailer is where your Private Chef/Guide will prepare meals throughout your trek. The Chuck Wagon is detailed with a refrigerator, oven top, and sink.
Travel Notes
Best Time of Year to Visit
October – November (trip offered year-round)
Arrivals and Departures
Arrive at Salt Lake City Int’l Airport (SLC); Depart from Salt Lake City Int’l Airport (SLC).
Recommended Flights
Arrival: There are daily flights into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). Your trip manager will help you arrange an arrival time window (we prefer morning arrival flight times).
Departure: We prefer that all flights departing from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) leave in the late afternoon, allowing the group enough time to get to the airport.
Airfares are not included in program pricing. When booking travel, we recommend working with an experienced travel agent. One that World Wide Trekking is proud to coordinate with is Brian Mei from Eastern Travel. You can reach Brian directly by calling 801.792.1721 or by email at brian@easterntravel.com. Additional support is always available by calling the Eastern Travel Office at 801.466.8811 or by emailing Michelle at michelle@easterntravel.com.
The benefit of using a travel agent is in the event of itinerary changes, the travel agent will find the best flight connections, and land arrangements, for you. Though third-party travel websites are convenient, we do not recommend using them, due to instability in the itineraries. We also recommend that you protect your flight with travel insurance and a refundable ticket.
We also recommend that you protect your flight with travel insurance and a refundable ticket. Contact AIG Travel Guard to get more information.
Travel Insurance
We recommend you safeguard your trip by purchasing travel insurance. World Wide Trekking has partnered with AIG Travel Insurance as our preferred travel insurance provider. For a price quote, or to purchase travel insurance, visit
Please Note: You must purchase this plan within 14 days of your deposit payment. Please send us a copy of your plan if you choose to purchase one.
Accommodations
Springdale
- Cliffrose Lodge
- Desert Pearl
- Flanigan’s Inn
Bryce Canyon
- Stone Canyon Inn
- Bryce Canyon Lodge
- Best Western
Capitol Reef
- Capitol Reef Resort
- The Sands
Moab
- Red Cliffs Lodge
- Gonzo Inn
- Best Western
*Based on availability during trip dates.
Health and Safety
Our stringent commitment to safety means you have access to our medically certified guides before and throughout your trip. Our staff also carries emergency medical equipment such as satellite communicators and medical kits.
For more information, feel free to contact us directly with any questions, at 801-943-0264. We can schedule a phone call with our medical advisor, Dr. Levy, to answer any specific questions regarding your personal needs.
Gratuities
In many parts of the world, gratuities are given in appreciation for a job well done. Our guides will take care of tipping service personnel along the way so that you don’t have to think about it.
For any additional services outside of our itinerary, plan to tip 10% (transport, restaurants, baggage, lodges, etc). We will provide you with detailed tipping recommendations on your ‘Trip Detail’ site once you sign up.
At the trails end you will have the opportunity to contribute to a group tipping pool that will be presented to your WWTrekking guides and trekking staff as we say our goodbyes.
Fitness and Nutrition
We provide a complimentary 6-week extensive fitness and nutrition program to help our guests prepare for their journey ahead. The program is tailored specifically for our trips and includes virtual 1 on 1 coaching sessions with our Fitness and Nutrition Specialist.
General Information
States
Utah
Population
3,101,833
Time Zone
Mountain Time Zone – UTC-07:00
Capital City
Salt Lake City
Geography
Utah, where the Rocky Mountains, Great Basin, and Colorado Plateau converge, boasts extremely diverse and stunning geography. Although most of this western state experiences a semi-arid or desert climate, the many mountain ranges offer a large variety of additional climates. From high alpine forests to vast deserts filled with humbling sandstone towers, walls, and arches, Utah’s landscapes are numerous and awe-inspiring. Utah is home to 5 National Parks, 4 national monuments, and 4 state parks. The capital of Utah, Salt Lake City, gets its namesake from the Great Salt Lake which is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere with a salinity far saltier than seawater.
Culture and Religion
Salt Lake City, Utah, is the world headquarters for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, making Utah the only state in the U.S. with a majority population belonging to a single church. The industries that make up Utah’s diverse economy include mining, oil and gas development, tourism, agriculture, cattle ranching, salt production, and a quickly growing tech industry. There are 6 Native American tribes in Utah today: the Goshute, Navajo, Paiute, Ute, Shoshone, and Uintah and Ouray Tribes.
What Our Guests Say
Human Outreach Project
OUR PLANET… HELPING OTHERS, CHANGING LIVES