Grand Canyon: Hiking to Phantom Ranch

Journey to the Heart of the Grand Canyon

Meet at 12:30pm at the Holiday Inn Express& Suites in Scottsdale and head north, climbing above the Mogollon Rim onto the Colorado Plateau. (Note: In 2019, there will be one airport pickup at 11:30am, delivering guests to the Holiday Inn at 12:30pm.) Along the way, guides explain the geologic forces that created this massive uplift and why the Grand Canyon formed. Pass through the town of Flagstaff and get the first look at the canyon from the historic Desert View Watchtower, a Mary Jane Colter building perched on the edge of the great chasm. After another 30-minute scenic drive along the rim, arrive at the lodge for a delicious dinner.

Hike the South Kaibab Trail

After a hearty breakfast, descend 7 miles and 4,780 feet into the grandest of canyons, along the South Kaibab Trail famous for the most awesome panoramic views of any trail in the park. Descend past Ooh Aah Point to Cedar Ridge, for a gourmet lunch before continuing the trek. From here, traverse the Tonto Plateau before dropping into the Inner Gorge. On the last portion, hike along the Colorado River and over a suspension bridge until Phantom Ranch at the trail's end, nestled on the banks of Bright Angel Creek.

Hike Up Bright Angel Trail

In the morning, prepare to conquer the mighty canyon. The exit is via the Bright Angel Trail, a classic Grand Canyon trek. After crossing the Colorado River, the trail snakes its way up out of the inner gorge to the shady oasis of Indian Gardens. Refill with water before tackling the steep ascent up Jacob's Ladder through the Redwall layer. The guides provide helpful hints, strategies, techniques, and their insider knowledge of the keys to a successful ascent. Celebrate your accomplishments with a fine dining experience at El Tovar.

Take a Sunrise Hike & Return to Phoenix

Hike to Trail View Overlook for a Grand Canyon sunrise. Walk back for a delicious breakfast at El Tovar and free time for last-minute photos or awe-inspiring views. Taking a different route back to Flagstaff, enjoy the drive along Highway 180, with spectacular views of the San Francisco Peaks, giant meadows, ponderosa forest, and volcanic cones. Look out for elk, mule deer, and pronghorn. Enjoy lunch in Flagstaff before resuming the journey to Phoenix; hotel or airport drop-offs can be arranged. Please book outbound flights for 7pm or later.