A unique incentive for the adventurous traveller.

By Charlene Brooke

The hike gets underway on the Island Trail in Walnut Canyon National Monument, the home of well-preserved cliff dwellings, ponderosa pines and, of course, walnut trees. The afternoon is spent exploring the well-preserved ruins of Wu­patki National Monument and then savouring the scenery at the Desert View Watchtower before reaching Grand Canyon National Park. Guests will spend the night at the South Rim at Maswik Lodge (based on availability).

What’s most striking about this four-day hiking trip isn’t just the canyon views, the 800-year-old ruins or the sight of grazing mule deer. Its real beauty lies in how these and so many other things come together to make this an experience like no other. Offered by adventure outfitter O.A.R.S., which has been named The Best River and Sea Outfitter on Earth by National Geographic Adventure magazine, it’s not a trip for the faint of heart. But for those in good physical condition with an intrepid spirit to match, it just may be the ultimate incentive.

Day 1

The hike gets underway on the Island Trail in Walnut Canyon National Monument, the home of well-preserved cliff dwellings, ponderosa pines and, of course, walnut trees. The afternoon is spent exploring the well-preserved ruins of Wu­patki National Monument and then savouring the scenery at the Desert View Watchtower before reaching Grand Canyon National Park. Guests will spend the night at the South Rim at Maswik Lodge (based on availability).

Day 2
If the seven-mile Kaibab Trail into the canyon doesn’t leave hikers short of breath, its views along the way most certainly will. From Ooh Ah Point to the 1,200-ft-high Panorama Point Overlook, every switchback is a new vista to absorb, every shady rest-stop a welcome oasis. Guests will arrive at Phantom Ranch, the only lodging below the canyon rim, around mid-day. There, they can enjoy a cool dip in Bright Angel Creek, a rest in the shade of cottonwood trees or a hike up the Clear Creek Trail before retiring for the night.

Day 3
Hikers will make their way out of the canyon along the nine-mile Bright An­gel Trail. Some of its highlights include Indian Gardens, the tight switchbacks of the Devil’s Corkscrew and, quite possibly, mule deer sightings. The celebratory dinner that follows at the world-class El Tovar Restaurant will most certainly make all the hard work worthwhile. Guests will stay at Maswik Lodge for their final night.

Day 4
After breakfast, hikers will set out to explore the canyon rim by their choice of foot, bicycle or shuttle bus. The unrestricted view from Hermit’s Rest is an absolute must-see.
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