The Hidden Side Of The Grand Canyon – In 2024, more than 4.9 million people visited Grand Canyon National Park, one of the most popular national parks in the U.S. But here’s something surprising — only 1% of visitors go below the canyon rim.
Most people come to admire the view from the top, but few actually hike down into the canyon. The Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute, a group that leads guided tours, wants to change that.
Noelle Ritzman, who works with the institute, shared her first experience:
“When I first visited the Grand Canyon at age nine, I was amazed by how big it was. But when my dad said we were hiking down, I was scared,” she said. “Once we started walking down the Bright Angel Trail, my fear disappeared. The deeper we went, the more beautiful it became. That trip changed me forever.”
The institute offers guided hikes below the rim, especially in winter and spring, when the weather is cooler and crowds are smaller. Their trips range from short 6-hour hikes for beginners to 10-day backpacking adventures for experienced hikers.
The guides aren’t just experts on trails — many of them have lived and studied at the Grand Canyon. They share fascinating facts and stories that help visitors truly connect with the landscape, its history, and its cultural importance.
Upcoming Below-the-Rim Adventures (2026)
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Phantom Ranch Hiking Tour (Feb 2–5) – Hike to the bottom of the canyon and stay at the famous Phantom Ranch.
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Hermit to South Bass Backpacking (Mar 9–18) – A 10-day deep canyon trek along the Tonto Trail.
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Havasupai Gardens: Intro to Backpacking (Apr–May) – A 4-day family-friendly trip perfect for beginners.
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Horseshoe Mesa Backpacking (Apr 15–19) – A multi-day immersive trip through one of the park’s most remote and beautiful spots.
If you’re ready to experience the Grand Canyon from a new perspective, try going below the rim. You’ll discover breathtaking views, hidden trails, and a deeper connection to one of America’s greatest natural wonders.
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