5-8 Day Upper Grand Canyon Oar Powered Trips

Overview The Upper Canyon trips run 88 miles between Lees Ferry and Phantom Ranch, a park service facility and dividing line between the Upper and Lower Canyon. On Upper Canyon trips you launch at Lees Ferry, AZ near the Arizona / Utah border entering Grand Canyon at its beginning. Your introduction to the river is gentle and the cliffs rise gradually and higher every mile you travel downstream. There are giant caverns, waterfalls, dripping springs, beautiful side canyons to explore and intriguing Indian ruins to visit. All gear and tents are included (or may be rented for the trip) so all you have to bring are your own personal effects. You'll run some of the largest rapids on the river and finish your trip at Phantom Ranch in the deepest part of the Grand Canyon. From there you hike 9.5 miles up and out of the canyon on a good trail to Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim. A 5000 foot elevation gain makes this a rigorous though beautiful hike. (see below) We recommended you spend that night on the rim and continue traveling the next day. We are happy to help you with all these arrangements and can create a package for any trip. These trips run 5 - 8 days by oar rafts or dories. These trips start at $1620.00 per person The Hike Out of the Canyon The main trail is the Bright Angel Trail 9.5 miles between the river and the rim. The trailhead on the rim is next to the Bright Angel Lodge and a short walk to most all the other lodges. It's the only trail that has water, restrooms and phones along the route. The 9.5 mile hike and 5000' elevation gain makes this a rigorous hike. You don't need to be an athlete to make this hike but you do need to be in relatively good condition and able to hike.  As importantly, you need to be mentally prepared to hike up hill for 4-8 hours or downhill 4-6 hours.  You will have to carry your own personal effects and a minimum of 2 liters of water in the summer months. Make sure to hydrate yourself starting the day before, avoid caffeine and alcohol and make 2-3 sandwiches so you have plenty of fuel for the hike.  Food is as important as water.  It's best to eat small amounts often and time your water intake between refill stops so you keep your fluids up. Also it's a good idea to cut your toe nails, carry moleskin for hot spots and get your legs in shape before the trip.