Bright Angel Loop: Canyon Backpacking Classics
A perfect introduction to backpacking in Grand Canyon, the South Kaibab and Bright Angel trails make their way through a diverse cross section of geology and ecology. Enjoy spectacular river views and hikes to side creeks and canyons, and camp at iconic Bright Angel Campground and Havasupai Gardens along the route.
- Dates:
May, November
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trip Length: 5 Days
- Cost: $1,200
- Group size: 9
Trip Highlights
- The "Art" of Backpacking - This session will be devoted to the basics of backcountry travel, with a focus on proper equipment, food, and preparation
- Explore Grand Canyon geology, natural history, and flora and fauna with expert guides
- Learn tips and tools for hiking in hot desert regions along with prevention of common backpacking injuries and illnesses
- Discover trail etiquette and principles of low impact backcountry travel and camping
- Explore the geology, plants, animals, ecology, and human history of Grand Canyon with an expert guide
What's Included
Price for the class includes:
Expert instructors
Comprehensive gear list
Food and menu planning ideas
Comprehensive 60-day workout schedule from GCCFI with mobility, strength, and cardio exercises
Expedition First Aid kits
Food containers are provided in the campgrounds
Group water filter
Satellite phone
Backcountry permits for backpacking into Grand Canyon
What's Not Included
Transportation to and from the canyon
All of your food and gear
Hotel lodging in the park before or after your trip if you would like
Guide gratuity (industry recommendation 15-20% of trip cost, read this article to receive more guidance)
Itinerary
Please note that itinerary details are subject to change. Specific trails and distances traveled may be adjusted due to weather, trail maintenance or closures, or other factors outside our control. We will communicate any adjustments to the itinerary details during orientation.
Meet your Grand Canyon experts
Melanie Miles
BEdMelanie Miles, originally a native of England, was a teenager when she first visited the Grand Canyon and immediately fell in love with its landscape, geology, and natural & cultural history. From her home base of Prescott, AZ, she has more than 30 years of experience as a teacher and naturalist. Melanie leads groups throughout the world, teaching natural history, earth science, climbing, environmental education, and backcountry skills.
John Begay
John Begay is a dedicated Diné instructor with three years of experience at the Field Institute. Holding education in Geology and Climate Science from Northern Arizona University, John has also been guiding at the Grand Canyon for six years. He is one of the few Indigenous locals who not only shares the rich history of the Grand Canyon but also provides an authentic perspective on Indigenous heritage. Through his thoughtfully curated hikes, John invites clients to experience the canyon through a unique lens, emphasizing both geological wonders and Native American history.
Sherri O’Neil
MASherri has been an outdoor educator since 1996, bringing nearly three decades of expertise in fostering meaningful connections with the natural world. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from Northern Arizona University and a Master’s degree in Outdoor Education from Prescott College, where her studies focused on interpreting Indigenous cultures and promoting stewardship through education.
A published author, Sherri has contributed multiple articles to Legacy, the magazine of the National Association for Interpretation. She is passionate about designing customized experiences that inspire participants to form deeper bonds with their surroundings, blending her academic knowledge and practical expertise to create impactful educational opportunities.
Additional Notes
This is an introduction program, no previous backpacking experience is necessary. Previous camping and hiking experience is encouraged. Participants must be 17+ years older for this backpacking program.
Cancellation Policy
Please notify our office as soon as possible should you need to cancel your registration. If you cancel or leave a trip early for any reason:
- 60+ Days prior to trip start date: full refund minus a 10% administrative fee.
- 59-45 Days prior to the trip start date: 50% refund will be issued.
- Less than 45 days prior to trip start date: no refund.
Reserved spots are transferable to different trips, if there is availability. This transfer can occur up to 45 days prior to the trip's start date.
Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute reserves the right to cancel all or a portion of a trip due the following circumstances; failure to meet the participant minimum and loss of scheduled staff due to injury or illness. In this event, participants will receive a full refund. In addition, Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute may cancel a trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather events, natural disasters, park closures, and health emergencies, and there is no alternative trip is available to you. If GCCFI cancels the trip due to unforeseen circumstances 15 days or more prior to departure, the customer will receive a full refund. If the trip is a multiday program and GCCFI cancels 14 days or less the customer will receive trip credit.
Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute is not responsible for: flight tickets, visa fees if applicable, gear, medical expenses, clothing, and any expenses occurred while preparing for this trip.
We highly recommend the purchase of trip insurance to help offset any cost incurred if cancellation occurs.
Payment Policy
To secure your booking, a 10% deposit of the total tour cost is required at the time of booking. This deposit confirms your reservation and guarantees your spot on the tour. An additional 50% payment of the balance is due 90 days before departure.
The remaining 40% of the balance is due 45 days before departure. Please ensure the final payment is made by this deadline to avoid any delays or complications with your tour.
If you have any questions or need assistance regarding the payment process, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Timely payments ensure we can provide the best possible experience, and we look forward to welcoming you on your tour.
Testimonials
The Zelkovic Family
“Our day with the Field Institute exceeded all our expectations and we came away with a great respect for the canyon and for the work of the Conservancy. It was such a wonderful experience from beginning to end and hope we can return in the not so distant future to participate in one of your multi-day programs.”
The Jankowskis
“Our family’s experience was nothing short of amazing! Slim (our guide) provided a perspective we would have never been able to get on our own and we learned so much. Her passion for the canyon and what she does came through too, which made our time something we’ll never forget!”
Amy Waits
“The guides were awesome – so educational and patient!!! Encouraging & helpful in every way. Such an amazing first visit to the canyon – Life changing to have experienced the GC up close & personal… Thank you so much!”
Andy M.
“Top to bottom, the Field Institute exceeded all of my expectations .... they ensured we packed wisely for our trip and saved me from lugging around 5 lbs. of junk I didn't need. Overall, it's packed with value that I don't think commercial outfitters would provide and delivered a deeply rich experience.”