To make the most of your visit to the Grand Canyon, you don’t want to just stop by the visitor's center or look over the edge and get back in the car. The best way to get to know the area is by hiking through it to see its most beautiful locations and learn about its rich history. To keep your Grand Canyon tour comfortable and safe, make sure to follow these basic hiking tips.

How to Hike the Grand Canyon Safely

1. Plan Ahead

There are many mapped trails around and through the Grand Canyon. Choose one and figure out how long it will take you to hike it, based on its length and difficulty. This will help you decide how much food and water to take, as well as arrange how to travel to and from the site.

2. Wear the Right Shoes

For short, easy hikes, sturdy sneakers are enough to keep your feet comfortable. For long treks and steep climbs, however, you want quality hiking boots to protect and cushion your feet while also supporting your ankles. Break them in on some walks close to home before your big Grand Canyon tour.

3. Plan for Heat

During the summer, the Grand Canyon can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit at the bottom and will likely be over 80 degrees at the South Rim. Bring a generous amount of water—at least two cups per person per hour of hiking. Also, bring a hat to keep the sun off and use plenty of sunscreen.

4. Pace Yourself

Don't try to hurry the hike. You'll tire more quickly and increase your risk of injury or heat exhaustion. Keep a comfortable pace and take rests as needed. Factor this time into your plan as well. 

5. Take a Guided Tour

Consider taking a guided Grand Canyon tour to improve your experience. Your knowledgeable guide will not only share interesting information, but they'll also help you stay on the path, give you safety tips, and find the most beautiful locations for sightseeing and photos.

 

If you're interested in a guided Grand Canyon tour, choose Laughlin Tours in Clark County, NV. For almost 20 years, their experienced guides have improved the Grand Canyon experience for countless groups, earning them the Laughlin Community Achievement Award for Tourism. To schedule a tour, call (702) 420-5345 or reach out online.