Destination: Grand Canyon National Park North Rim Base Camp Tour

Unforgettable Hiking Vacations!
The Wildland Trekking
Company, LLC
Destination: Grand Canyon National Park
North Rim Base Camp Tour
“The glories and the
beauties of form, color,
and sound unite in the
Grand Canyon - forms
unrivaled even by the
mountains, colors that
vie with sunsets, and
sounds that span the
diapason from tempest
to tinkling raindrop, from cataract to bubbling fountain.”
- John Wesley Powell.
www.wildlandtrekking.com
1-800-715-4453 (HIKE)
The Wildland Trekking
Company is committed to
delivering outstanding hiking
adventures to the best desert
and mountain regions of North
America. Our commitment to
this is reflected in our
mission statement: To
provide exceptional
hiking adventures in
North America’s most
beautiful and wild
landscapes, and to
contribute significantly
to the conservation of
these special places.
We have over 25 years
experience leading unique
journeys that have lasting
positive impact on people's
lives and, as importantly, on the
regions and cultures we visit.
- Brad, Steve & Scott
[email protected]
page 1
Unforgettable Hiking Vacations!
North Rim Base Camp Tour
Introduction
The North Rim is a summer paradise with only 10% of the
visitation the South Rim gets, cooler temperatures, shaded
forests, more wildlife, and wonderful, remote areas with
fantastic views. This tour is an opportunity to get to know
the North Rim by enjoying the well-known highlights like
Bright Angel Point and the historic Grand Canyon Lodge, as
well as exploring remote areas that few people know about.
It's also an extraordinarily great camping experience that feels
a lot more like Colorado than the Grand Canyon.
In addition to hiking, and time permitting, we’ll explore the
best museums and visitor attractions at the Grand Canyon. A
tasty dinner, comfortable camp, cozy campfire, and endless
star-filled night sky will be the setting each evening.
Rim of the Grand Canyon and the famous Grand Canyon
Lodge. We'll check out the lodge and its massive picture
windows before hiking to Bright Angel Point, one of the most
impressive views in the Canyon. After a hearty lunch we'll
hike down the famous North Kaibab Trail to Coconino
Overlook or possibly Supai Tunnel, two impressive overlooks
in the Canyon.
Once the hiking is done we'll set up camp and enjoy our first
tasty dinner of the trip. Each evening it's your option to
shower and relax around the campfire, and/or go with the
guide on a moon-lit walk on the rim..
Day 2 Nankoweep Trail
Hiking Mileage: 7+ miles
Elevation Change: 500+ feet
Campground: North Rim or De Motte Campgrounds
Today is a very special day and in many ways the high point of
this tour. We'll enjoy another relaxing breakfast before
heading out to a remote, little-known trail. Our route takes us
along the rim through pine forests to a phenomenally
breathtaking spot: a peninsula of rock that sticks out over the
edge of the Canyon allowing stunning views in all directions.
What's better is this spot is hardly known and we'll likely
have the day mostly - or completely - to ourselves. If the
group is feeling ambitious we can continue on for another
mile or two into the Canyon. Once our hike is complete, we'll
enjoy an outdoor dinner at another remote, awe-inspiring
viewpoint we're able to drive to.
View downstream from Navajo Bridge
Day 1 Bright Angel Pt. & North Kaibab Trail
Shuttle to the North Rim: 4-hour drive from Flagstaff
Hiking Mileage: 2.5+ miles
1-way Elevation Change: 600+ feet
Campground: North Rim or De Motte Campgrounds
We'll pick you up at your hotel in Flagstaff and begin our
drive to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. En route we'll
cross the Colorado River near Lee's Ferry, where the Old
Navajo Bridge (built in the 1920's) is suspended 300 feet
above the water. Your guide will drop you off so you can walk
across the historic bridge and snap pictures of this amazing
spot, which marks the beginning of the Grand Canyon.
Occasionally we see California Condors perched on the
rafters beneath the bridge. Following breakfast at the Old
Navajo Bridge, we'll continue on our journey to the North
www.wildlandtrekking.com
1-800-715-4453 (HIKE)
[email protected]
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Unforgettable Hiking Vacations!
Day 3 Widforss Trail
Mileage: 2-6 miles
1-way Elevation Change: 1,200 - 2,500 feet
Campground: North Rim or De Motte Campgrounds
After a big breakfast we'll drive a short distance to our
trailhead. Today's hike is on a beautiful trail that winds
through the pine trees and aspen of the high North Rim
(8,000 feet) past ancient fossil beds to the edge of the
Canyon. Elk, deer, coyotes, fox, mountain lions, and even
half-breed wild buffalo roam these forests and meadows
regularly. The plant life is rich and lush, which is an amazing
contrast to the desert ecosystems we'll be gazing down at
inside the Canyon (and later walking through off the South
Rim). Once we reach the edge of the Canyon, we'll traverse
the North Rim to a stunning viewpoint. We'll enjoy a picnic
lunch overlooking the depths of the Canyon, explore this
incredible area by extending our hike along the Rim, and then
return on the same trail.
of the Grand Canyon, the Grandview Trail as we know it
today was built as access to the Last Chance Mine when
copper was discovered on Horseshoe Mesa in 1890. We'll hike
down to Coconino Saddle, a low point on a ridge that
separates two impressive side canyons. We'll enjoy a snack
before turning back and relishing our hike back to the Rim.
After our hike we'll drive along the South Rim to stop at
some of the more impressive viewpoints, then shuttle back to
Flagstaff for the conclusion of our tour.
Trip Itinerary Note... all trips are subject to itinerary
changes based on a variety of circumstances, including, but
not limited to permit availability, extreme weather, and forest
fires. The price and duration of a trip will never change once
you’re registered. Payments are not refundable based on
itinerary changes, only on cancellations.
Note on Mileages... since these are out-and-back hikes
the distance hiked on each day is ultimately determined by
the desires and abilities of the group. Please let your guide
know if you would like to hike less, or more, each day.
Trip Details
Trip type: base camping
Difficulty: 2 (moderate)
Length: 4 days
Accommodations: North Rim and De Motte
Campgrounds
Group size: maximum 6, including guide
East Entrance Watchtower
Day 4 Watchtower & Grandview Trail
Shuttle to the East Entrance: 3-hour drive from N. Rim
Mileage: 3+ miles
1-way Elevation Change: 1,200+ feet
Shuttle to Flagstaff: 1.5-hour drive from the South Rim
We'll break camp and drive again over the Colorado River at
Lee's Ferry. We'll turn west and enter the Park from the East
Entrance this time, where we'll stop at the famous East
Entrance Watchtower. This amazing structure is a replica of a
Native American tower found in the same location by early
explorers centuries ago.
After driving along the famous Desert View Drive, we'll reach
the jumping off point for our amazing hike on the Grandview
Trail. As the name implies, phenomenal views abound on this
hike! You can see for more than 100 miles on a clear Grand
Canyon day from the top. Originally used by native peoples
www.wildlandtrekking.com
Pack weight: 5-10 pounds
Price/start dates: see website tour page
Meeting time & place: 5 p.m. the day before the
trip start date at the Little America Hotel in Flagstaff,
Arizona
Trip conclusion: approximately 7:00 p.m. on the
last day
Trip fees include: transportation, park entrance
fees, permits, 3 nights camping, group gear, food
(breakfast day 1 through lunch on last day),
professional guide
Trip fees exclude: airfare, trip insurance, hotels,
alcoholic beverages, and services not specified
1-800-715-4453 (HIKE)
[email protected]
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Unforgettable Hiking Vacations!
Directions to Little America Hotel for the
Orientation Meeting
Travel, Transportation,
Meeting & Lodging
Travel
Arrival & Departure Dates
Travel to and from the trip starting point is not included in
the cost of our trips. Please plan on arriving in time for the
orientation meeting the day before the trip leaves and
departing the day after getting back from the field.
• From downtown Flagstaff travel south on Beaver St. or
Milton Rd. to Butler Ave. (just south of the railroad tracks)
• Turn left (east) on Butler Ave.
• Drive 1.7 miles east of Beaver St.
• The Little America Hotel is on your right immediately
after driving under Interstate 40.
See map on last page of this trip packet.
Transportation To & From The South Rim
Gateway Cities: Phoenix or Flagstaff, Arizona.
All Grand Canyon trips begin and end from Flagstaff,
Arizona. Flagstaff has a small airport served by Horizon and
US Airways Express. From the Flagstaff Airport one can take
a taxi into town. One can also fly into Phoenix and rent a car
or take a shuttle to Flagstaff. This is often your cheapest
option. It is a 2.5-hour drive from Phoenix to Flagstaff.
Shuttle
From Phoenix Airport... Arizona Shuttle and Arizona
Executive Transport run daily vans to Flagstaff:
Arizona Shuttle
1-877-226-8060
We will pick you up at your hotel room in Flagstaff at 6 a.m.
on the morning of the first day of the trip, and provide
transportation back to your hotel in Flagstaff on the final day.
Storage of Personal Items & Vehicles
Many guests who have additional luggage items that need to
be stored while on the trip choose to so so with the hotel
they’ll be using before and after the trip. You are also
welcome to leave your luggage with us for secure storage just inform your guide. We also recommend storing your
vehicle at your hotel. If you cannot park it there your vehicle
can be parked on the street outside our office. However this
is not a secure option.
Pre & Post-Trip Recommended Lodging
Arizona Executive Transport
1-602-475-1125
Car Rentals: Avis: 800-331-1212; Hertz 800-654- 3131;
National: 800-227-7368; Thrifty: 800-367-2277; Alamo:
800-327-9633
Meeting Time & Place
We will meet in Flagstaff for an orientation at 5 p.m.
the day before the trip starts at the Little America
Hotel. See directions above right. We’ll give you a ride
to the Little America Hotel from your hotel if needed.
The orientation includes introductions, a briefing on the trip
itinerary, and a checking of personal gear.
Important note: Please bring all gear you plan on hiking with to
this meeting.
We recommend the below-listed lodging establishments
while in town. Additional options are numerous however it is
best to avoid historic Route 66 because of train noise and in
all cases book early as Flagstaff is a tourist community.
The Little America Hotel
Great location and atmosphere. 25-60% discount for
Wildland guests! Click here to redeem your discount.
Phone: 928-779-2741
Drury Inn & Suites
Located downtown. Discounted flat rate of $99.99 for
Wildland guests. Click here to redeem discount or call
928-773-4900 with this Corporate ID: 322635
Sonesta ES Suites
Corporate rate for Wildland guests: $89 for a studio suite &
$129 for a two bedroom suite. Call Tom D’Agostino:
1-928-526-5555 ext 6005 or 1-800-766-3782
Super 8 at Lucky Lane
Phone: 928-773-4888
www.wildlandtrekking.com
1-800-715-4453 (HIKE)
[email protected]
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Unforgettable Hiking Vacations!
Long pants, several pairs of lightweight, breathable
pants to block sun and give warmth at night
Shorts, several pairs, nylon is nice for light weight and
to substitute as a bathing suit
Sport sandals or water shoes like Keens®, there will
be occasions where we are hiking in shallow water
Hiking socks, one pair for every day of your trip.
Recommended brands include Bridgedale®,
Smartwool®, or similar padded socks (wearing a thin
liner sock under your hiking socks is highly
recommended). No cotton socks!!
Hiker Notes & Equipment List
The following information includes conditioning
recommendations as well as clothing and equipment
requirements to help ensure a satisfying experience. All items
are designed to better prepare you for your trip and need to
be carefully read.
If you have any questions after reviewing this information
please feel free to contact our office. Also, please pay special
attention to any item marked “Important note.”
Additional Clothing September - May
Training
The enjoyment received from any physical activity is largely
dependent on the shape you’re in. The physical demands of
hiking the Grand Canyon are in sharp contrast to those
found in mountain climbing or hiking on relatively flat
terrain. The first part of your hike will be a knee-jarring
descent, and the climb out will come when your legs are most
tired.
We cannot stress enough that the fitter you are the more
fun you’ll have. A combination of cardiovascular fitness,
strength in all muscle groups and flexibility will help ensure
an enjoyable experience. As such, we recommend you prepare
for your trip with a moderate training program focused on
walking and hiking, ideally in hilly terrain.
Important note: Always consult with your physician before
commencing with a workout program.
In addition to the clothing list above, the following items are
needed if your trip is occurring during the months of
September through May.
Warm hat and gloves
Long underwear, one pair of wicking tops and bottoms
that are lightweight to midweight, example wicking
materials include capilene, polypropylene, etc.
Fleece jacket or insulated coat, warm, lightweight
and packable fleece jacket or coat insulated with
synthetic material
Rain pant, waterproof/breathable pant
Important note: With the exception of a cotton t-shirt and
bandana, NO clothing item should be cotton! Cotton does
not insulate when wet and takes longer to dry.
Gear Checklist
What You Need To Bring
Clothing Checklist
The following items are required for your trip. They are a
must for your safety and comfort. When shopping, think
layered clothing systems that work together.
(
Sturdy hiking boots, mid-weight, lug-soled, above the
ankle, and ideally well broken in
Important note: Buy your boots ½ to one-size larger than
your street shoes to allow for feet swelling and thicker
socks
Brimmed sunhat and bandana
Rain shell, waterproof/breathable jacket
Warm top, such as a long-sleeved sweater or fleece
jacket
Several cotton t-shirts (may be long-sleeved) for
protection from the sun, light colors are nice because
they’re cooler than dark colors
www.wildlandtrekking.com
1-800-715-4453 (HIKE)
Water bottles or bladder (3 liters total capacity)
Contact lenses and glasses if you wear contact lenses
please also bring a pair of glasses - your contacts are likely
to become dirty and may be difficult to clean
Sunglasses, sunscreen (30+ SPF), lip balm
Headlamp, spare batteries (preferably an L.E.D. type
that works with AA or AAA batteries, spare bulb)
Toiletries, and a small washcloth in stuff sack (bandana
can serve as a washcloth)
Vitamins (optional)
Notebook, drawing supplies, or paperback book
(optional)
Camera, spare batteries (optional)
Prescription medicine (please inform trip leader of
any medications you are taking)
Knee braces, if needed
Money, for tipping your guide (generally 10-15% of trip
cost based on your experience) and for any purchases in
Escalante, Utah
[email protected]
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Unforgettable Hiking Vacations!
Online Store
FYI
Most of the items listed above are available in the Wildland
Trekking online store. The store is specifically stocked to
support you for your trip and is a convenient way to buy your
gear since you can do it from home!
The following are various Grand Canyon National Park
regulations of interest:
What We Provide
Group Gear
We provide top-of-the-line backpacks, tents, sleeping bags,
camp pillows, sleeping pads, trekking poles, stoves, cookware,
and personal bowls, cups, and utensils.
Food
We will provide delicious meals which are prepared by your
guide and eaten in camp. Lunches and trail food will also be
provided for the trail.
• Wood or charcoal fires are prohibited in the
backcountry.
• You must carry out ALL trash, including toilet paper if you
do not use the campground toilets.
• Firearms, bows, and arrows are prohibited.
• Pets are prohibited below the rim. The park has kennel
space available for a fee.
• Removing or disturbing plants, rocks,
animals, minerals, archaeological or cultural resources, is
prohibited.
• Fishing requires a valid Arizona fishing license or nonresident permit. Some routes offer fishing opportunities,
some do not. Let us know if you’d like to fish.
Group Travel
Important note: It’s critical that you include your dietary needs
in your registration - it’s too late once you’ve arrived!
If you're joining a scheduled hiking tour you'll be hiking with
fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Please carefully examine the trip
materials and difficulty prior to registering so that you can
select a trip that matches your ability level. We make every
effort to match the abilities of our group members however it
is inevitable that individuals will vary in this regard. Consider
that the trip may be a once in a lifetime opportunity for your
fellow travelers and it is important to respect each guest's
individual condition, needs, and desires. If you need
assistance selecting the right trip we are happy to help.
Fun Facts
Recommended Reading
• The Grand Canyon was established as a national monument
by Teddy Roosevelt in 1908 - Congress upgraded the
monument to a national park in 1919.
• It’s famous - it’s a World Heritage Site and one of the 7
natural Wonders of the World.
• It’s big - approximately 1.2 million acres, 277 miles long, 10
miles across and 1 mile deep.
• It’s old - at least according to the geologists. The Vishnu
Schist rock type at the bottom is 1.4 - 1.7 billion years old.
• With each step below the rim, you travel back
approximately 60,000 years in the earth’s history.
• 5 of the 7 life zones and 3 of the 4 desert types in North
America are present.
• Over 1,500 plant, 355 bird, 89 mammal, 47 reptile, 9
amphibian, and 17 fish species make the park their home.
• And lastly, it’s cool because there’s no other place like it in
the world!
Anderson, Michael F., Living at the Edge: Explorers, Exploiters
and Settlers of the Grand Canyon Region, 1998.
We accommodate vegetarian diets and will make adjustments
for food allergies. Special dietary requests may require an
additional fee or other arrangements.
We do not provide alcoholic beverages. If you’d like to
drink beer or wine with your dinner please plan on
bringing those with you.
www.wildlandtrekking.com
Houk, Rose, An Introduction to Grand Canyon Ecology, 1996.
Price, L. Greer, An Introduction to Grand Canyon Geology, 1999.
Adkison, Ron. Hiking Grand Canyon National Park, 2006
Second Edition.
1-800-715-4453 (HIKE)
[email protected]
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Unforgettable Hiking Vacations!
Discounted American Hiking Society
Membership
Book a Trip
To join any Wildland Trekking Company trip,
simply call 1-800-715-4453 (HIKE) and talk to
one of our friendly guides. Alternatively, email us
at [email protected] and we’ll get back
to you in a timely manner.
Payment Schedule: A $500 deposit is required to
secure your spot. The trip balance is then due 60 days
prior to your trip start date. Final acceptance of any
participant is subject to receipt and review of all
required forms and documents, and payment.
Cancellation Policy: The Wildland Trekking
Company reserves the right to cancel any trip
because of inadequate sign-up or other causes that
make it infeasible for the scheduling of the trip. If
this is the case, we will inform you at least 30 days
prior to departure, and a full refund of the advertised
trip cost will be given, including the deposit. The
Wildland Trekking Company is not responsible for
additional expenses incurred by preparing for the trip
(for example: non-refundable advance purchase air
tickets, clothing, equipment, visa fees, medical
expenses, etc.). If you cancel or leave a trip for any
reason:
- 60 or more days prior to the trip start date, we will
grant you a full refund, less a $50 administrative fee.
- Between 59 and 30 days prior to the trip start date,
we will retain 25 percent of the trip cost.
- Between 29 and 15 days prior to the trip start date,
we will retain 75 percent of the trip cost.
- Less than 15 days prior to the trip start date, or once
the trip has begun, there will be no refund.
Transfer Policy: If you transfer from one trip to
another:
- 30 or more days prior to the trip start date, there
will be a $25 processing fee.
- Less than 29 days prior to the trip start date,
regular cancellation and refund policies will apply.
Trip Insurance: For your protection, we strongly
recommend the purchase of trip insurance. It will
protect you against financial loss in the event of trip
cancellation or interruption, medical expenses, travel
delay, emergency evacuation or other circumstances.
Medical coverage secured with your policy will also
satisfy our requirement for health insurance. Travel
insurance is underwritten by MH Ross Travel
Insurance.
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As a guest of Wildland Trekking you’re
eligible for a discounted membership of
$30 to the American Hiking Society.
Benefits include:
Free subscription to Backpacker Magazine
American Hiker, AHS’s quarterly newsletter
Opportunities to join members-only Volunteer Vacations
Contribution to the establishment, protection, and
maintenance of hiking trails and the environment
• Read more on our website!
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Thank You!
The Wildland Trekking Company is dedicated to delivering
an exceptional travel experience that exceeds your every
expectation. We believe that travel is one of life’s great joys
and take seriously our role in helping you create a trip of
lasting memories.
In addition to our role as your travel partner and guide, we
are dedicated to the promotion of stewardship and
conservation in the regions we visit. One of our primary goals
is to use the business as a tool toward long-term sustainability
of the environment and its people.
If there is anything we can do to further inform or help you in
preparation for your upcoming adventure please do not
hesitate to contact us. Thanks for the opportunity to serve
you and we look forward to seeing you soon!
Directions to the Little America Hotel
1-800-715-4453 (HIKE)
[email protected]
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