Levels of Difficulty for Backpacking Trips

The following Group Backpacking Trips are available for 2013. Please enter the Group Backpacking Trips page to make arrangements.

Listed below are the ratings for difficulty levels of group hikes; Level 1 - least strenuous through 5 - most difficult. Ratings are derived from distance, altitude change, hiker safety and terrain.

Level 1: Beginner - Good for beginners, first timers, teenagers and most children. Hikes are on well maintained "Corridor Trails" which are most traveled and highly populated. Mule trains also frequent these trails. Campground amenities consist of running water and maintained restroom facilities. Hikers carry backpacks 20 to 30lbs for trips, however, Sherpas are available for additional cost. Duration of hikes are usually five hours or less throughout the length of a day, as the better portion of the day is dedicated to relaxing and enjoying the amazing surroundings of the Grand Canyon. Although the beginner hike is the the least strenuous hike, hiking Grand Canyon requires good physical heath, as well as a healthy respect for heights.

Level 2: Beginner Backcountry - Good for beginners, first timers, and teenagers; these are not for a typical young child or those with a fear of heights. Hikes are on less maintained trails which get you away from the crowds, but the hike has exposure to drops on thin trails. Extra guides are utilized on these hikes to keep the load off of our beginner hikers. Hiking times are typically less than 5 hours each day, the rest of the time is spent relaxing and enjoying the canyon. Campgrounds have composting back country toilets, and water needs to either carried in or filtered. Supportive hiking footwear is highly recommended.

Level 3: Moderate - These are for hikers that want to spend more time in the canyon, while covering more territory. Endurance and stamina needed, because most of the day is spent hiking. These hikes are on well maintained "Corridor Trials" that are the most traveled and populated trails....these are where the mules hike. Campgrounds have running water and maintained restroom facilities. Suitable for those with a bit of hiking experience, most teenagers, and for young athletes during cooler months; supportive hiking footwear is highly recommended.

Level 4: Moderate Backcountry - Drops in elevation tend to get more intense. Distance is greater, endurance and stamina is required. Hikes are on less maintained back country trails which get you away from the crowds, but the hike has more exposure to drops on thin trails. People that do not have a fear of heights really enjoy these trails, but if one was to have even a slight fear of heights they could find these hikes torturous. Campgrounds have composting back country toilets, and water needs to either carried in or filtered. Experienced hikers, and some older teens; hiking footwear with good ankle support is a must.

Level 5: Advanced Backcountry - Long distances on back country routes that are very remote with great elevation changes; advanced hiking experience is required. Campgrounds have composting back country toilets, and water needs to either carried in or filtered. These hikes are for healthy athletes that want to push their limits; hiking footwear with good ankle support is a must.