Grand Canyon in February? Is it worth it?

quote:

---

North Rim is closed between November and May.

---

I would hike rim-to-rim-to-rim

l

(no message)

quote:

---

If the backcountry permit comes through (should know in a month or so), I'm gonna do it. I've decided. Thinking 5 nights (Bright Angel, 2 nights at Cottonwood, Bright Angel again, and Indian Gardens)

---

That sounds like a solid itinerary for a winter R2R2R since the rims may be icy and the days are shorter so 15-20 mile days are not as easy.

I'm sure you are probably doing your research but just wanted to throw in my 2 cents.

1. Day 1: take South Kaibab down

2. Day 2: take the side trip to Ribbon Falls, it is about 2.5 miles before you get to Cottonwood

3. Day 3: get an early start, it is the longest day by mileage and the North Rim may have ice and/or snow

4. Day 5, set up camp at Indian Gardens then hike out to Plateau Point for sunset/dinner, have a headlamp for the hike back. I believe it is around 5 miles round trip

5. Micro spikes for potential icy spots, most likely only necessary the first 3 miles below each rim

6. Trekking poles, they look goofy but your knees will thank you, especially on the descents

7. It isn't unusual for a late Feb snow storm, so have proper gear for the rims. If it does snow you are in for a visual treat that not many visitors get to experience. Your camp sites are at lower elevations so will be warmer, but be prepared for potential sub freezing temps at night. If it is at or below freezing keep your electronics, water bottle, and water filter in your sleeping bag. Hot hands packets in your socks are a good idea for safety and comfort.

8. Not a bad idea to bring a Garmin inReach or Zoleo if you have one. The iPhone 14 is supposed to include emergency satellite SOS as well if you happen to be picking one of those up between now and Feb. This isn't necessary as there should be Rangers at each camp site but if you slipped and fell on the North Rim you may be on your own unless a crazy ultrarunner happens by.

9. I believe they shut off some of the water sources for winter (1.5 and 3 mile stops on Bright Angel, the ranger house between Phantom Ranch and Cottonwood, and the fountain between Cottonwood and North Rim) so verify and plan accordingly

I have only hiked the canyon during the spring and summer but a winter hike is high on my list, better weather and the chance to see the canyon dusted in snow. If timing/permits works I may try to sneak a trip in between Thanksgiving and Feb, if so I'll update any pointers here.

Rumors are that they are going to be shutting down Phantom Ranch and the corridor trails to all backpacking for a year or two while they replace infrastructure so if you have the opportunity to go before then I would jump on it.

Update: Got the permit for the rim-to-rim-to-rim in February. Should be fun.

But holy shite, Las Vegas is expensive, even for basic hotels just for a night before I come home.