Immerse yourself in the history and visual spectacle of Grand Canyon National Park and the red rocks of Sedona. Spend four days on a quest to understand a place older than dinosaurs—marvel at the geologic history, journey viewpoint-to-viewpoint along the canyon rim, and hike among the oldest exposed stones on the planet. Discover both popular and lesser-known spots with your expert MT Sobek guides and return each evening to cozy park lodging on the canyon's South Rim. From the striking red rocks of Sedona to the off-the-beaten path Hermit's Rest, from the iconic Bright Angel Trail to Hopi Point, this captivating itinerary is equally suited for the hiker hungry for miles and the historian craving stories of adventure.
Immerse yourself in the history and visual spectacle of Grand Canyon National Park and the red rocks of Sedona. Spend four days on a quest to understand a place older than dinosaurs—marvel at the geologic history, journey viewpoint-to-viewpoint along the canyon rim, and hike among the oldest exposed stones on the planet. Discover both popular and lesser-known spots with your expert MT Sobek guides and return each evening to cozy park lodging on the canyon's South Rim. From the striking red rocks of Sedona to the off-the-beaten path Hermit's Rest, from the iconic Bright Angel Trail to Hopi Point, this captivating itinerary is equally suited for the hiker hungry for miles and the historian craving stories of adventure.
Hike below the Grand Canyon rim on Bright Angel and South Kaibab Trails
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Explore the geology, flora, and fauna of Sedona's spectacular Red Rock State Park
[Description] => Explore the geology, flora, and fauna of Sedona's spectacular Red Rock State Park
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Stargaze under the Milky Way in an official Dark Sky Park
Start your adventure in the Phoenix area, the blue-sky, fair-weather hub of the Sonoran Desert. Meet your MT Sobek guides and fellow travelers for a quick orientation before heading to beautiful Sedona. En route, watch the landscape change from low desert to high, see saguaro cactus shift to pinion pine, as you travel to Red Rock State Park. This is Sedona at its best, with rolling trails and stunning red rock views all around as you follow meandering creeks, keeping an eye out for javelina crossing your path. Savor an al fresco lunch before journeying farther north, into the cool pine-covered elevations of canyon country. Your first glimpse of the Grand Canyon, from Desert View Watchtower, is unforgettable and allows an up-close understanding of how geology created such a fascinating spectacle. Tonight, check into your rim-side lodge, and meet up for dinner to discuss the adventure ahead.
Accommodation: Thunderbird Lodge-Grand Canyon National Park Accommodation: Kachina Lodge-Grand Canyon National Park Accommodation: The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon Accommodation: Maswick Lodge
Activity: 1.5- 2.5 miles/2 hours hiking with 230' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 4.5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Follow the Bright Angel Trail into the Grand Canyon
Day 2
After breakfast, lace up your boots and head down the legendary Bright Angel Trail, once traversed by Teddy Roosevelt. Following a natural fault line, its steep switchbacks descend 2,100 feet in just 3 miles—halfway into the canyon—revealing layers of rock millions of years old. Pause at the ancient Redwall Limestone before powering up with a picnic and stories of John Wesley Powell's 1869 expedition. Then, begin the challenging trek back to the rim. In the afternoon, explore the Shrine of Ages on your own, or join your MT Sobek guide for the Trail of Time or continue on West Rim to Hopi Point. Cap the day with the wonder of stargazing in this certified International Dark Sky Park.
Accommodation: Thunderbird Lodge-Grand Canyon National Park Accommodation: Kachina Lodge-Grand Canyon National Park Accommodation: The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon Accommodation: Maswick Lodge
Activity: 6 miles/4-5 hours hiking with 2,102' elevation gain and loss; 2-4 miles/1-2hours hiking with 500' elevation gain and loss (optional)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Descend South Kaibab Trail
Day 3
Today you'll experience some of the most scenic miles the Grand Canyon has to offer on the South Kaibab Trail. Tracing a prominent ridgeline, it affords a nearly 360-degree view of the widest part of the canyon. Get your camera ready for the aptly named Ooh-Ahh Point! Continue down the manmade stairs on this well-maintained trail to Cedar Ridge and on to Skeleton Point. Here, you'll get your first glimpse of the Colorado River, the powerful force that carved the canyon itself, and the life-giving artery of the southwestern US. After returning to the rim, you can explore the canyon as desired, with various shopping or hiking options available, including a trek along the East Rim Trail from Mather Point to Pipe Creek Vista, one of the best views on the South Rim. Tonight, dust off for a celebratory dinner in a local restaurant.
Accommodation: Thunderbird Lodge-Grand Canyon National Park Accommodation: Kachina Lodge-Grand Canyon National Park Accommodation: The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon Accommodation: Maswick Lodge
Activity: 6 miles/4-5hours hiking with 2,060' elevation gain and loss; 1.5-3 miles/1-2 hours hiking with 250' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 1.5-hour park shuttle transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Canyon Rim Hiking & Hermit's Rest
Day 4
Today, your MT Sobek guides will offer an optional sunrise walk, perfect for early birds or YOLO enthusiasts who want to witness the warm glow of the sun coloring the ancient canyon walls. After a quick breakfast, board a scenic shuttle headed to the less-traveled Hermit's Rest, a unique architectural gem designed by the influential architect Mary Jane Colter in 1914. From there, embark on a captivating hike along the rim trail back toward the heart of the village, stopping at up the trail's many viewpoints to drink it all in. This afternoon say farewell to the canyon, having visited its most popular trails and secret spots over the past four days. Journey south, from pine to cactus, and return to the Phoenix area in the early evening for your flight out.
Activity: 8 miles/4 hours hiking with 496' elevation gain (optional & time permitting)
MT Sobek has been exploring US National Parks and surrounding public lands for more than 50 years, placing a strong emphasis on responsible travel practices that support local communities and protect the natural environment.
In four spectacular and well-paced days, explore rugged wilderness trails and learn about the natural, geologic, and human history of red rock canyons.
Hike with expert MT Sobek guides, who bring the wonder of the Grand Canyon to life and rest each evening in well-deserved comfort after adventure-filled days.
Gather your favorite travel companionsโfamily, friends, colleagues, or clubโand enjoy an exclusive departure thatโs easy to book and completely unforgettable.
A 25% non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your private departure.
Minimum age for guests on this trip is 18 years old.
Choose Your Own Travel Dates
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, September, October, November, December
Private Trip Pricing: 2026
8 guests from $3,295 per person double occupancy
7 guests from $3,395 per person double occupancy
6 guests from $3,495 per person double occupancy
4 to 5 guests from $3,695 per person double occupancy
3 guests from $3,895 per person double occupancy
2 guests from $4,495 per person double occupancy
Optional:
$680 Single Occupancy
*Seasonal rates may apply.
*Trip pricing on the website is provided as an estimate and is subject to change based on rates at the time of request and seasonality.
Go Custom
Create Your Very Own Adventure
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Casey H.
Casey has been guiding exhilarating outdoor adventures since 2016, leading guests though some of the most awe-inspiring places in the West, from Yellowstone to Zion and the Grand Canyon. He is all about showing people the beauty of the wild while keeping them entertained with captivating stories and cool facts, and ensuring they are well-fed and safe on the trail. Casey is a Wilderness First Responder.
Jerry W.
Jerry started guiding in 2007 after moving to Colorado where he discovered mountain biking in the fresh alpine air. After years of guiding multi-day hiking and cycling trips, he has built up a depth of hands-on experience and wilderness wisdom that he brings to each adventure. He was raised in Florida, followed by four years in the military, then moving to Colorado, where the magnificent wilderness inspired him to guide.
Owen T.
Owen grew up in Richmond, Virginia, but it was a year roaming New Zealand in a van named Calypso that changed everything. Immersed in wild rivers, rugged mountains, and the warmth of the people he met along the way, he discovered a lasting passion for whitewater boating and climbing โ pursuits that continue to shape his life today. Guiding since 2018 and certified as a Wilderness Emergency First Responder, Owen sees his work as more than just leadership. For him, itโs about sharing the stoke, fostering meaningful connections with the natural world, and helping others build confidence as they explore the wild, breathtaking landscapes beyond the pavement throughout the Western United States.
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Start your adventure in the Phoenix area, the blue-sky, fair-weather hub of the Sonoran Desert. Meet your MT Sobek guides and fellow travelers for a quick orientation before heading to beautiful Sedona. En route, watch the landscape change from low desert to high, see saguaro cactus shift to pinion pine, as you travel to Red Rock State Park. This is Sedona at its best, with rolling trails and stunning red rock views all around as you follow meandering creeks, keeping an eye out for javelina crossing your path. Savor an al fresco lunch before journeying farther north, into the cool pine-covered elevations of canyon country. Your first glimpse of the Grand Canyon, from Desert View Watchtower, is unforgettable and allows an up-close understanding of how geology created such a fascinating spectacle. Tonight, check into your rim-side lodge, and meet up for dinner to discuss the adventure ahead.
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After breakfast, lace up your boots and head down the legendary Bright Angel Trail, once traversed by Teddy Roosevelt. Following a natural fault line, its steep switchbacks descend 2,100 feet in just 3 miles—halfway into the canyon—revealing layers of rock millions of years old. Pause at the ancient Redwall Limestone before powering up with a picnic and stories of John Wesley Powell\'s 1869 expedition. Then, begin the challenging trek back to the rim. In the afternoon, explore the Shrine of Ages on your own, or join your MT Sobek guide for the Trail of Time or continue on West Rim to Hopi Point. Cap the day with the wonder of stargazing in this certified International Dark Sky Park.
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Today you\'ll experience some of the most scenic miles the Grand Canyon has to offer on the South Kaibab Trail. Tracing a prominent ridgeline, it affords a nearly 360-degree view of the widest part of the canyon. Get your camera ready for the aptly named Ooh-Ahh Point! Continue down the manmade stairs on this well-maintained trail to Cedar Ridge and on to Skeleton Point. Here, you\'ll get your first glimpse of the Colorado River, the powerful force that carved the canyon itself, and the life-giving artery of the southwestern US. After returning to the rim, you can explore the canyon as desired, with various shopping or hiking options available, including a trek along the East Rim Trail from Mather Point to Pipe Creek Vista, one of the best views on the South Rim. Tonight, dust off for a celebratory dinner in a local restaurant.
Today, your MT Sobek guides will offer an optional sunrise walk, perfect for early birds or YOLO enthusiasts who want to witness the warm glow of the sun coloring the ancient canyon walls. After a quick breakfast, board a scenic shuttle headed to the less-traveled Hermit\'s Rest, a unique architectural gem designed by the influential architect Mary Jane Colter in 1914. From there, embark on a captivating hike along the rim trail back toward the heart of the village, stopping at up the trail\'s many viewpoints to drink it all in. This afternoon say farewell to the canyon, having visited its most popular trails and secret spots over the past four days. Journey south, from pine to cactus, and return to the Phoenix area in the early evening for your flight out.
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 3. Participants should be in very good physical condition and be comfortable with daily hikes of up to 6 miles with elevation gains/losses of up to 2,100'. Hiking trails are composed of dirt, rock and sand with some steep sections and exposed overlooks. All hikes are optional and our guides will brief trip members on the vigorousness and exposure of each hike prior to setting out. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 1
1.5- 2.5 miles/2 hours hiking with 230' elevation gain and loss
Day 2
6 miles/4-5 hours hiking with 2,102' elevation gain and loss; 2-4 miles/1-2hours hiking with 500' elevation gain and loss (optional)
Day 3
6 miles/4-5hours hiking with 2,060' elevation gain and loss; 1.5-3 miles/1-2 hours hiking with 250' elevation gain and loss
Day 4
8 miles/4 hours hiking with 496' elevation gain (optional & time permitting)
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guideโs discretion.
Accommodations
Comfortable lodge that sits directly on the rim of the Grand Canyon.
Built near the Bright Angel Trail head and the Vercamps Visitor Center, the Thunderbird is a popular South Rim lodge. Contemporary 1960s architecture coupled with a wonderful vantage point ensure an unforgettable stay on the very edge of a natural wonder of the world. Comfortable rooms have all the expected amenities but the biggest draw is the location.
Perched on the Grand Canyon's South Rim, the Kachina Lodge boasts a contemporary setup near the historic district, and rooms complete with amenities like full baths and flat-screen TVs. The lodge is a convenient and comfortable hub for guests eager to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Grand Canyon.
The chalet-style Grand Hotel boasts an indoor swimming pool and hot tub. Located in the town of Tusayan, it sits just six miles from the breathtaking rim of the Grand Canyon and offers an upscale experience with amenities nearby.
Maswik Lodge is a welcoming, rustic-style lodge nestled in the scenic forest just a short walk from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon in Arizona. Located within Grand Canyon National Park, it offers a tranquil retreat surrounded by towering ponderosa pines and the natural beauty of the canyon's rugged landscape.
Weather
Generally sunny, this arid mid-elevation trip is fantastic in spring and fall. Prepare for a wide variety of conditions, from cool nights (40-60F) to warm days (60-85F).
Feb
Apr
Jun
Aug
Sep
Nov
Grand Canyon National Park
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Grand Canyon National Park
46
20
61
29
82
43
82
49
76
43
52
24
FAQs
Who will meet me on arrival?
We recommend guests arrive in Phoenix, Arizona the day prior to Day 1 of the itinerary due to the early pick-up time. Your guides will meet you on Day 1 at 7:30 am at Fairfield Inn & Suites Tempe and Towne Place Suites Tempe.
What are the best months to hike in the Grand Canyon?
The Grand Canyon is best for hiking in spring (March–May) and fall (September–October), when mild temperatures, lighter crowds, and stunning scenery create ideal conditions. MT Sobek schedules trips during these prime seasons, running in April and early May, and mid-September through early October.
What is the best footwear for hiking in the Grand Canyon?
Sturdy hiking boots or trail running shoes with good ankle support and a durable, grippy sole are recommended for hiking in the Grand Canyon. Ideally, they are breathable and waterproof or water-resistant. Whatever footwear you choose, ensure they are well broken in and comfortable for you.
Can I hike to Phantom Ranch?
While we do not hike to Phantom Ranch on this Grand Canyon Hiking Tour, MT Sobek does offer several trips to Phantom Ranch. Learn more about our Phantom Ranch Hiking Tours .
How should I train for my hiking adventure?
The best training for this trip is hiking. Work up from 5 to 8 miles of hiking with your daypack loaded with the same weight and items you will be carrying on our day hikes.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for these trips is 18. Families with fit younger teens may consider private and custom trip options.