Grand Canyon Easy-Active Hiking and Camping

Trip Length3 Days
Group Size4-9
Activity level
Starting from
$1,999 for REI Members
$2,199 for non-members
DeparturesApr 2025-Oct 2025

Embark on a rejuvenating 3-day escape to Grand Canyon National Park, immersing yourself in one of America's most awe-inspiring landscapes.

Throughout our three-day adventure, we set an unhurried pace hiking through a captivating landscape that boasts some of the most dramatic geological wonders you can imagine. The Grand Canyon stands as a testament to the unfathomable expanse of geologic time, where layers upon layers of rock tell tales of epochs long past. Carved over millions of years by the relentless force of the Colorado River and other natural forces, the canyon's sheer walls reveal a vivid tapestry of Earth's history. REI’s expert guides seamlessly intertwine the fascinating natural and cultural history of the canyon, ensuring that a newfound appreciation is instilled for this beloved icon of the American Southwest. As we immerse ourselves in the timeless beauty of the canyon, our journey unfolds into a truly unique, enjoyable, and relaxed experience.

After each day’s hike, we gather beneath the star-studded canvas of the Milky Way, kindling new friendships over s'mores and crackling campfires. At our exclusive REI Signature Camp, nestled just south of the Grand Canyon, comfort meets adventure with spacious tents, delectable meals, hot showers and fully appointed bathrooms. For those seeking an introduction to camping or craving an elevated outdoor experience, REI Signature Camp offers the perfect opportunity. With all camp chores and trip logistics taken care of, your sole focus is on unwinding and immersing yourself in the natural splendor alongside your fellow adventurers.

Preserving history and capturing it's  beauty, Kolb Studio stands as a  testament to the Kolb brothers'  pioneering spirit, perched on the  edge of the Grand Canyon.

Trip Highlights

  • Immerse yourself in the unparalleled grandeur of the Grand Canyon
  • Hike trails offering boundless panoramas, revealing breathtaking views of the canyons' beauty
  • Learn from your knowledgeable guides, delving into natural and cultural history
  • Indulge in sumptuous meals prepared by your guides
  • Stay at REI Co-op's private Grand Canyon Signature Camp, filled with cozy camping amenities

Activities

This trip is rated Easy Active [2]. Trip members should have some previous hiking experience, be in good physical condition, and be capable of hiking up to 6 miles, including a hike with a maximum elevation gain/loss of 2,100' on one day. There are some steep sections and exposed overlooks on the various trails we hike. Our guides will brief trip members on the details of each hike prior to setting out.

  • Hiking

What's Included

Two nights camping; guide leadership; round trip van transportation from Phoenix; meals as noted in the daily itinerary; all group camping equipment; park fees and local taxes.

Accommodations

REI Signature Camp 45 minutes south of Grand Canyon South Rim.

Your Adventure Itinerary

Itinerary map for Grand Canyon Easy-Active Hiking and Camping
Day 1

Welcome to the first day of your Grand Canyon hiking adventure

Your guides welcome you and your fellow travelers at our meeting location in the Phoenix area. After introductions and an outline of the day ahead, we shuttle to the crown jewel of the National Park system – the Grand Canyon. On our scenic drive, we watch the shift from the Sonoran Desert and its towering saguaro to the semi-arid desert of the Grand Canyon adorned with its pinion, juniper and ponderosas. Our first stop at the Desert View Watchtower offers expansive views that stretch across the horizon, where we indulge in an al fresco lunch while soaking in the grandeur of our surroundings. After, lunch we shuttle to begin our first hike along the Rim Trail. Along this scenic pathway tracing the canyon's edge, your guides unveil the geological marvels that have shaped this surreal landscape. Following our hike, a 45-minute shuttle brings us to REI's exclusive Signature Camp, nestled south of the Grand Canyon. Once settled, we savor a delicious dinner expertly crafted by our guides. Then, gather around the campfire and bask in its welcoming glow. Lunch and dinner included.

Hiking: 4 miles; Total ascent/Total descent: 230’; Low point/High point: 6,884’/7,068’; Van transfer: 5 hours

Day 2

Hike Bright Angel Trail and indulge in s’mores at REI Signature Camp

Awakening to the tranquility at our secluded Signature Camp, we find a French press of freshly brewed coffee outside our tent. It's an invitation to savor the quiet moments as we bask in the soft, golden hues of the early morning. As our guides prepare breakfast, we gear up for the day's adventure, knowing we can choose to challenge ourselves or cover as much mileage as we feel comfortable with. As we set off for the Bright Angel Trail, we're treated to sweeping vistas and historical insights from our guides. Set along a natural fault line, the trail's switchbacks guide us downward through millennia, descending over 2,100 feet in just 3 miles to pause at the Redwall Limestone layer, a remarkable 335 million years old. Amidst breathtaking views, we enjoy a picnic lunch, we learn about John Wesley Powell's pioneering exploration of the Grand Canyon in 1869. We think on the historical significance of this remarkable trail as we ascend back to the rim. After a shuttle we return to our cozy camp, we gather for another delicious dinner, exchanging tales of adventure and camaraderie under the starlit sky. All meals included.

Hiking: up to 6 miles; Total ascent/Total descent: up to 2,100’; Low point/High point: up to 4,774’/6,856’; Van transfer: 1.5 hours

Day 3

Say farewell to the Grand Canyon after experiencing its majestic views from Hermits Rest

Today's adventure takes us to Hermit's Rest, a National Historic Landmark situated at the end of the Canyon Rim Trail, commissioned by the Fred Harvey Company in 1914. We board a scenic park shuttle to reach this iconic destination. From here, we embark on a hike along the rim trail back toward the heart of the village. This trail offers a feast for the eyes, with our guides punctuating each sublime viewpoint with insights into the history of the Grand Canyon, with each stop more stunning than the last. And with regular shuttle stops along the way, we can hop on whenever we please and enjoy the day how we choose. This afternoon, we bid farewell to the Grand Canyon on this short and sweet adventure, utterly captivated by its many spectacular vistas. We’ll journey south, from pine to cactus, and return to Phoenix in the evening, including a stop at the Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) for those who have flights out tonight. All meals included.

Hiking: 4 – 6 miles, Total ascent/Total descent: up to 600’; Low point/High point: up to 6,536’/7,127’; Transfer: 5 hours

Itinerary map for Grand Canyon Easy-Active Hiking and Camping

Gear List

The key to staying comfortable while on an active trip is layering. To get maximum comfort with minimum weight, you need versatile layers that mix and match to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation and weather protection. Try to bring only what is necessary—this will help you and the field staff.

Already booked this trip? Sign into your online traveler profile for a more detailed list of what you'll need.

REI members can shop for gently used gear online or at most REI stores. Members can also trade in pre-loved used gear online or at any REI store in exchange for REI gift card credit. Check out Re/Supply at REI to learn more.

We provide

  • All Group Cooking Gear
  • Camp Furniture
  • Cots and Sleeping Pads
  • Group First Aid Kit
  • Tent(s)
  • Trekking Poles

What to pack

Contact Us

Feel free to give us a call at 1 (800) 622-2236 should you have any questions regarding the gear list. The staff at our stores and Direct Sales ( 1 (800) 426-4840 ) will also be happy to help you with gear questions. Or check out REI Expert Advice , which has great information to help you prepare for your trip.

Trip specifics may change over time. Reviews reflect the version of the trip that was active at the time the reviewer took it. Please review the itinerary as described above and call our team for any additional details.