How to Hike the Grand Canyon in Summer

Even though Arizona's beautiful Grand Canyon often fills with hikers and vacationers, it can be a dangerous place. If you want to hike the Grand Canyon in the summer, follow these steps to ensure a safe hike.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Hiking boots
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Hat
• Small flashlight with replacement batteries and bulb
• Map and compass
• Whistle or sight mirror
• First aid kit
• Water purification tablets
• Food and water

1. Make sure that you're in proper physical shape to hike the Grand Canyon in the summer, when temperatures in the canyon can rise over 80 degrees F at the rims and over 105 degrees F in the inner canyon. These warm temperatures and the dry desert environment make summer hiking difficult.

2. Bring all the items listed in the "Things You Will Need" part of this article and on the National Park Service website (link is listed in Resources). Wear comfortable hiking boots with socks, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.

3. Choose a hiking trail on the South Rim, the North Rim or in the inner canyon. Some trails are for day hikes and others are for overnight hikes. Listings of the trails, the Trail Accessibility Guide, trail advisories, conditions, weather and warnings are on the National Park Service website.

4. Start your hike in the early morning (predawn) and finish in the late afternoon. Take a break, preferably near water or shade, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the hottest period of the day.

5. Eat and drink enough during your summer hike. It's hot and dry in the Grand Canyon and you mustn't become dehydrated. Drink one gallon of water each day and drink before you get thirsty. Don't eat salty snacks during your hike. Know the warning signs of health problems you may encounter, such as lightheadedness, dizziness, pain or sudden fatigue

6. Reserve any campsites or other lodging that you may need before arriving at the Grand Canyon for your hike. If you will be doing an overnight hike, visit the National Park Service website for information on reserving accommodations.

7. Check the weather before you go. If temperatures seem too hot for you, or if there are thunderstorms in the area, you may not want to hike. Thunderstorms are common during July, August and early September.

8. Map out how to arrive at the Grand Canyon and where to park your car. Summer in the Grand Canyon tends to be crowded and parking may be at a premium. Have a plan for where you are going in the canyon and how to get there safely. Any road closure information can be found online as well.

Tips & Warnings

• Some hiking trails are accessible to families with small children or to people with wheelchairs.
• Before attempting a summer hike in the Grand Canyon, read the "Hiking Tips" and the "Summer Hiking Tips" on the National Park Service's website.
• Always tell someone of your plans before you attempt a hike in the Grand Canyon. Tell them when and where you'll be hiking and what time you plan to return. Call your contact when you've completed your hike to let them know you're ok. If something happens to you, this person can notify the National Park Service.
• Never hike the Grand Canyon alone, especially in the summer.
• Comply with all warnings and instructions given to you at information centers and by Park Rangers.
• Know that assistance can be delayed during a summer hike because of increased numbers of rescue calls due to the extreme heat.

Resources

• Grand Canyon Information from the National Park Service.
• The Grand Canyon Association.
• Grand Canyon Chamber of Commerce.

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