Arizona
Hiking the Grand Canyon: Adventures On and Below the South Rim
Program No. 6112RJ
Gain a deeper understanding of the Grand Canyon as you join experts for hikes on and below the South Rim. Naturalists provide insight into the canyon’s epic natural and human histories.
Participant Reviews
Based on 44 Reviews
SHOWING
Any picture of the Grand Canyon does not do it justice. You have to be there to gain perspective and to learn the history of the Grand Canyon itself, its formation, geology, and indigenous peoples' story. Everyone should go to the Grand Canyon, and this a great way to do it in an organized fashion, with time for action, hiking, and perspective.
The accommodations were adequate, not fancy, and the food was better than what I expected.
— Review left November 5, 2025
Hiking the Grand Canyon, Above and Below the Rim was an outstanding program. This was my first Road Scholar program, and I would recommend it to others who are interested in varying levels of hiking, and having the opportunity to see one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
— Review left October 28, 2025
My trip to Grand Canyon was one of the high points of my life! The amount of hiking we did, our two group leaders, accommodations, food, and of course the magnificent Canyon itself — all were fantastic!
— Review left October 26, 2025
Grand Canyon is not just a pretty picture! This program does a deep dive into the formation of the canyon and it's future. Getting down into the canyon, with advance degree geologists, is an invaluable learning experience.
— Review left September 30, 2025
Very good group of people, we did a lot of hiking "off the beaten path" which was good. Good leaders who knew the subject matter very well. The only problem was using the crampons which some people had a problem with.
— Review left March 26, 2025
I highly recommend this program for fit individuals who wish to experience different areas of the Grand Canyon on foot.
— Review left March 15, 2025
This was an amazing trip! Lisa and Mike were excellent team leaders. Their knowledge and personal experiences with the canyon were invaluable. They listened to the us and ensured we had the experience of watching the effect of sunset on the canyon rim one night. We got to experience Red Mountain and Desert View with fewer crowds. I got to experience the canyon not only from the top, but from within as well. Magnificent views and excellent leadership!
— Review left October 27, 2024
Road Scholar does an excellent job of taking you to just the right places to experience the magic of the Grand Canyon. The hikes are well paced and several drop down into the canyon. The guides are extremely knowledgeable and very personable, which added to the fun and camaraderie on the trip. Based on this experience I would definitely do another Road Scholar trip!
— Review left October 25, 2024
The RoadScholar Grand Canyon South Rim experience was wonderful – beyond our most optimistic dreams! Our Guides, Joel, Eric and Chris were very knowledgeable, clearly enjoyed their work and, best of all, they were, all 3, really good guys. The specific hikes they picked out for our group were perfect: neither too easy nor too strenuous, but always breathtakingly beautiful and fascinating. The lodging and food were so-so but very convenient; so, in the end, I think they were the best choice for our hikes and our wallets. Our fellow RoadScholars were a great bunch and a joy to be with. This trip has us convinced: it will definitely not be our last RoadScholar adventure!
— Review left October 14, 2024
Fabulous trip Hiking the Grand Canyon; Above and Below the South Rim! Hotter and more strenuous then I expected but the guides were open to options, genuinely interested it making it the best experience for all, and so friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about the program I made it through enthusiastically and unscathed.Looking forward to more Road Scholar adventures.
— Review left October 13, 2024
Sorry for the late review...
Enjoyed the trip...was better than I expected... Lisa and Eric were excellent guides...
The 'right' level of physical challenge and the 'right' level of education, in my opinion...
taking another Road Scholar trip next week... hoping for a similar positive experience :)
Larry
— Review left August 21, 2024
I had a wonderful time! The sixteen others on the trip with me invigorated me and inspired me as we hiked. The group leaders/experts are wonderful people and very knowledgeable. I hope I can catch some of the leaders/experts on other trips I take in the future.
— Review left April 20, 2024
Great leaders and great trip. Thank you
— Review left November 11, 2023
Wow--a wonderful introduction to the Grand Canyon. Just be sure you can stay on your feet for most of the day.
— Review left October 31, 2023
This was my first Road Scholar trip and it exceeded my expectations in every way. Our guides were friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. The Grand Canyon is a place that should be experienced through hiking, and this trip did not disappointment.
— Review left October 30, 2023
Had a wonderful hiking experience with Lisa and Mike Kearsley as our guides. Beautiful weather and even though the Kaibob trail was challenging it was great to say that I now have hiked it!!! Lisa and Mike are extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the Grand Canyon!!!!! Would highly recommend this trip!
— Review left October 21, 2023
Excellent program! The Grand Canyon, one of our national treasures is magnificent and fascinating. What better way to learn about it than to hike in it and its surrounding areas. It was also nice to stay within the park. Length of program is just right and the instructors were top-notch.
— Review left October 9, 2023
Great program! Do remember to bring a flashlight. The walk back from the lodge to the rooms is very dark. Also, the written material is a bit confusing regarding tipping. You are allowed to tip the leaders and I encourage everyone to do so.
— Review left October 9, 2023
This is a wonderful way to explore the south rim of the GC! Loved the itnerary and the leaders. Thanks for a truly memorable trip!
— Review left October 4, 2023
Physical activity in an awesome surrounding led by engaging and knowledgeable leaders in a group of interesting and friendly people. What could be better?!
— Review left October 3, 2023
I had a fantastic vacation. This was my first Road Scholar Trip and I will certainly be back again.
RS was always available to answer questions, easy to get a hold of. Everything promised was fulfilled. The shuttles, although confusing at first, worked out perfectly. Groome Shuttle Co gets kudos for personal and timely service. I will highly recommend them .
I was fortunate the weather was perfect this time of year, and I was packed appropriately for it.
Our trip leaders were attentive, kind, knowledgeable and I felt comfortable putting myself into their care. I did not question their judgement at all (well, except how they seemed dismissed a + covid case as not being a concern to the rest of us. In this post covid world I have learned to accept that we all have different responses. If covid is a concern, I would suggest bringing your own test kits to use).
I liked the size of our Group of 17, that allowed for personal conversations and connections that will hopefully last. The lodging, meals, level of activity, private time all worked out well for me .
Thank you.
— Review left May 6, 2023
Tour leaders Stewart, Tom, & Slim are very knowledgeable & have great communications skills. The hikes were wonderful, adapted to a variety of levels. Accommodations quite adequate (1960s'ish motel, cafeteria food not bad, no Wi-fi in rooms—but fine dining & connectivity weren't the point of the trip). Overall, a great experience (though I think the one COVID case that popped up among us could have been handled in a more proactive way).
— Review left May 1, 2023
Hiking the Grand Canyon: Adventures On and Below the South Rim was a great exploration of the Grand Canyon. The hikes were interesting and we experienced several areas not normally seen there. The instructors were knowledgeable explaining the history, topography, and cultural significance of the area. The elevation of the canyon certainly impacts hiking so start preparing well in advance. All in all, a great trip!
— Review left April 25, 2023
A. This has been a well organized group experience....from communication in the weeks before the event to the preparation for chronologically advantaged adults, this has been outstanding.
B. The guides for this experience are incredible. They have not only a solid understanding and knowledge of their topic, they also know how to communicate that knowledge in interesting and relevant means. I've appreciated their use of constructive metaphors and analogies. I also appreciate their humor and patience.
C. Our national parks are an invaluable source of inspiration, appreciation of history and culture, and renewal of faith in the decency of humanity.
— Review left April 21, 2023
Hiking the Grand Canyon - South Rim was outstanding. If you are and avid hiker, looking for spectacular views, and want to learn with the best, then this is the tour for you.
— Review left March 22, 2023
This was a wonderful trip. The Canyon is something every American should get to see. Doing it with Road Scholar, Joel, and Carl made the trip a wonderful experience. The level of expertise and knowledge make your time and visit a great life experience. I would recommend it to anyone who wants to see and understand the Grand Canyon.
— Review left October 30, 2022
Seeing the Grand Canyon was on my bucket list and it did not disappoint. The trip was fun, challenging, educational and exciting. The leaders were friendly and so knowledgeable. The other participants were very friendly and the made the trip even more fun!
— Review left October 17, 2022
my experience of the Grand Canyon facilitated by Road Scholar far exceeded expectations.
— Review left October 17, 2022
I have always wanted to visit the Grand Canyon. This Road Scholar trip was the perfect way to see it and learn about it.
— Review left May 12, 2022
What a great hiking adventure! Donnie, Amanda, and “Slim” were wonderful guides -so full of interesting information which they shared along our trails. Our lodgings were inside the park, where we saw elk, mule deer, and feral horses on several days. We had an opportunity to explore the Rim Trail as well as exploring portions of two canyon trails: the Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail. We divided into sub-groups for hiking into the canyon. One could choose a mild, moderate, or more strenuous day. We were also taken on some 'off the beaten track' hikes in the nearby Palisades and to Red Mountain Volcano. One afternoon was left open for independent exploring of the Grand Canyon Village. They have an excellent shuttle system to get around the park. Many in our group also gathered independently to view the sunset over the canyon one evening; and my husband and I got up early (4am) one morning to view the sunrise over the canyon. Both were spectacular. We even had a short impromptu “Star Party” one night. Check the weather forecasts and pack accordingly. Evenings can be downright cold (especially with a stiff wind), but daytime in the canyon can be quite warm. Dress in layers and make sure you carry sufficient water (2-3 liters) in your pack. I recommend hiking poles, also. Don't miss this excellent adventure if you want to see and learn about the Canyon.
— Review left May 3, 2022
The Grand Canyon trip was spectacular. Thanks to Road Scholar and our exceptional guides for a unique and memorable experience.
— Review left April 30, 2022
The Grand Canyon is magical and I learned why on this trip.
— Review left April 30, 2022
Wonderful trip, you should be in good physical condition to take lengthy hikes that can be steep and also be interested in the rich history of the canyon and its people.
— Review left April 25, 2022
The Grand Canyon, South rim adventure was incredible. An experience I highly recommend especially if you are a hiker and love being outdoors!
— Review left April 21, 2022
I had a wonderful experience during my first trip ever to The Grand Canyon. We hiked in several non-crowded areas that I would not have known about had it not been for our very knowledgeable Road Scholar leader, Carl. This was nice because it was “Spring Break” time and the park was crowded. We went to some beautiful and picturesque places in and near The Grand Canyon. I learned a great deal from Carl about the geology and history of The Canyon and about its biological diversity. I can’t wait for another trip to The Canyon!
— Review left March 18, 2022
I loved the 3 mile down, 3 mile up South Kaibab hike! Testing myself on the Bright Angel trail on the first day made me sure I could do that (optional) distance. The off-the-beaten track hike was a wonderful, intimate and more private GC and cultural history experience. Staying at the Canyon - with access to the NPS shuttle system - has advantages and allows for great options on how to use free time if you don't bring a car. I hiked more rim and watched a spectacular sunset over the canyon. I had never been to the Grand Canyon and this was a great, safe introduction at the perfect time of year. I might have preferred other food choices, but I did bring some of my own and there was a small grocery store available (since some people live at the Canyon.) Thank you, RS.
— Review left October 31, 2021
Hiking the Grand Canyon was an awesome experience. Stewart and Donnie were knowledgeable and attentive leaders who enabled us to coalesce as a group. I would recommend this trip to anyone who likes to hike in an inspiring setting. The course description is accurate and you will find this to be a memorable experience.
— Review left October 12, 2021
Grand Canyon, below the rim
— Review left September 27, 2021
I initially signed up for a "Challenging" Grand Canyon trip and then backed down to "Spirited," and I was glad I did because of the weather, especially the temperature and wind, the altitude, and my own physical capability. That said, this was an active trip and I felt fulfilled in all ways by the experiences provided.
— Review left November 5, 2019
The trails below the rim were challenging and the views breathtaking. The participants, leaders, and experience will be remembered for a very long time.
— Review left November 4, 2019
If you are interested in seeing one of the 7 natural wonders of the world, close and personal, this program will meet your expectations. The physical aspects of the hike are challenging and exhilarating!
— Review left October 7, 2019
BE ABLE TO WALK AT A FAST PACE FOR THREE HOURS, BE ABLE TO CLIMP WITH MINABLE REST BE ABLE TO BE AMAZED. IT'S THE GRAND CANYON!!!!
— Review left October 7, 2019
This is an exciting and enriching program, a great way to learn about this amazing national park!
— Review left April 12, 2019
Hiking the Grand Canyon rim trails are a piece of cake since they're relatively flat. Hiking down into the Canyon is quite another matter because, obviously, one must hike back out. (No shuttle bus stops in the canyon, baby!) Be prepared, read the packet, listen to the guides, and know your abilities. It's challenging because of the higher elevation, the steepness, less oxygen, and you're heading back to the rim when you're already a bit tired. Whew! We did our initial descent on the Bright Angel Trail after lunch the first day. I think it was arranged that way so that we could see the unprepared park visitors merrily rushing down, then see scores of them sweating and dragging on their way out (often with crying children in tow.) It was an eye-opener. However, we were prepared, there was no rush on our returns, and we all did well on this trip. We had options for when we wanted to head back out. Most of my previous hikes had been uphill first with the downhills on the return (or a combination.) This trip was exhilarating because it was harder on the return and gave me more confidence in my abilities. Our guides, Bruce, Norm & Slim, were terrific.
— Review left April 8, 2019