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Grand Canyon Tanner Trail & Little Colorado Expedition
Remote Backpacking Adventure –5 Day Guided Wilderness Traverse
The wild side of the Grand Canyon is calling.
Trade crowded corridor trails for rugged desert solitude as we journey deep into the remote eastern canyon along the legendary Tanner Trail and Beamer Trail. This is the Grand Canyon at its most raw and awe-inspiring — massive cliffs, hidden waterfalls, turquoise creeks, and nights beneath some of the darkest skies in the Southwest.
Designed for strong hikers and adventurous backpackers, this expedition is perfect for folks ready to level up from classic backpacking trips and experience a true wilderness traverse with professional guidance and all the logistics handled for them. Swim in the surreal blue waters of the Little Colorado River, watch rafters disappear into the roar of Lava Falls, and explore parts of the canyon that few visitors ever get to see.
Big days, incredible food, meaningful challenge, and unforgettable scenery all wrapped into one bucket-list expedition.
Backcountry gourmet meals, remote camps, iconic desert trails, and one of the most unique landscapes on earth. Come play!
Trip Details:
Length: 5 Days. Distance: ~32 miles. Starting location:Grand Canyon Village Lot D 6am.
Spice: 🌶️ 4/5. Difficulty level: intermediate
previous backpacking experience or overnight camping encouraged.
Private $2300 1-2 people $2150/person 3+ people $2050/person
Special rates for group signups . Call to inquire.
Group trips : We handle all trips permits for you. The park uses a lottery system. When you sign up, The exact date and Camps used depend on the lottery results required by the NPS for Grand Canyon trips. If you dont get a trip we work with you to make sure that you are on a future trip or if you have other plans for your summer we can refund you. once the permit is acquired the dates are sent as part of our check in process. questions? lets hear from you.
Day One: 8 mi, -5050 ft
Meeting on the South Rim we go through our packs, water systems, and canyon strategy before beginning our descent down the legendary Tanner Trail. This rugged trail wastes no time dropping us deep into the Grand Canyon through massive layered cliffs and sweeping desert views. As the Colorado River grows larger below us we make our way toward Tanner Beach for our first riverside camp. A well-earned dinner, glowing canyon walls, and the sound of the river wrap up our first day in the canyon.
Day Two: 2.5 mi, +200-200 ft
After coffee and breakfast beside the river we begin our journey along the Beamer Trail toward Paradise Creek. This section of trail feels wonderfully remote with towering canyon walls, hidden beaches, and endless Colorado River views around every corner. our camp is river side and provides a nice view of Lava rapids. Once we reach camp we settle in for a relaxing evening in one of the most beautiful and quiet corners of the eastern canyon.
Day Three: 16 mi +1300-1300 ft
Today is our biggest exploration day — thankfully without full packs! Carrying only day gear, snacks, and swim supplies we continue along the Beamer Trail toward the Little Colorado River. Depending on conditions we may swim in the surreal turquoise waters. I find this to be more blue than that of Havasu Falls. relax beside the creek, before we make our way back see Carbon Falls, . After a full day of adventure we return to Paradise Creek camp for another fantastic evening by the river.
Day Four: 2.5 mi, +200-200
After a glorious breakfast we begin making our way back toward Tanner Beach along the Beamer Trail. Today gives us another opportunity to soak in the massive scale and solitude of the eastern Grand Canyon while enjoying a slightly more relaxed pace. Once back at Tanner Beach we enjoy our final evening beside the Colorado River with great food, canyon sunsets, and plenty of stories from the trail. We sometimes will camp a third of way up to avoid the heat the following day.
Day Five: 8 mi, +5050 ft
We rise early to begin our climb back up the Tanner Trail. As we gain elevation the Colorado River slowly shrinks below us and the Canyon opens wider with every switchback. We’ll take plenty of breaks, enjoy the changing views, and celebrate an unforgettable wilderness traverse as we finally crest the South Rim once again. Cold drinks and celebratory food await!
Specifics of route can change due to park service regulations, trail maintenance, weather, river conditions, and/or safety concerns.
What You'll Need
Download Packing List (PDF)To help you prepare for your Grand Canyon Tanner Trail adventure, here’s a clear breakdown of recommended gear, what’s provided, and helpful resources.
What’s Included
- All group gear (tents, water filters, cooking equipment)
- Backcountry meals (fresh, hearty, and fully prepared for you)
- Permits & logistics
- Professional guiding & instruction
What You Need to Bring
Your full Tanner trail packing list is available in the downloadable PDF above. Key items to plan for:
- Backpack (50–65L)
- Sleeping bag & sleeping pad
- Heat-appropriate layers (sun protection is key)
- Hiking footwear
- Personal items & toiletries
- Water bottles / hydration system (high capacity recommended)
Need More Help Deciding?
If you aren’t sure whether your gear is suitable, feel free to reach out anytime — I’m happy to help you choose the right items.
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