Workout Vacations: Backpacking in the Grand Canyon
Where:Phoenix
Duration: 3 days
Distance: 28.2 miles
Cost: $750
Operator: Just Roughin' It Adventure Co. (www.justroughinit.com; 877-399-2477)
Difficulty: Challenging
It's up and out by 6 a.m., for a ride to the South Kaibab trailhead on the South Rim, about 225 miles from Phoenix. Day 1 is spent hiking 6.7 miles (nearly all downhill) to the Bright Angel Campground, carrying your food-meals and snacks are provided-and stoves. After an early breakfast the next morning, anyone who wants to heads off to Ribbon Falls, a round-trip hike of 12 miles. Finally, there's the 9.5-mile trek back out of the canyon-all uphill and with 25 to 30 pounds on your back. Since this is a strenuous hike, tour guides advise participants to physically and mentally prepare by hiking, running, and cross-training for 60 to 90 minutes most days of the week for at least 12 weeks before your trip.
More Workout Vacations
Rafting the Green River •
Backpacking in the Grand Canyon •
Biking the California Coast •
Biking the Sonoma Valley •
Biking the Maine Coast •
Cross Country Bike Trip •
Glacier National Park Multisport Vacation •
Hiking in New Mexico •
A Pack Trip on Horseback •
Kayaking in South Carolina •
Yellowstone/Grand Teton Multisport Vacation