5 Day Motor Hiker's Special

2025 Hiker's Special

Cost per person

$2,200

View Dates

Book

2026 Hiker's Special

Cost per person

$2,265

View Dates

Book

Upper Canyon

Our second shortest trip is filled with adventure. Even though this trip is only 5 days, it is still one of the most adventurous river trips we have. Expect each day to be filled with incredible Grand Canyon geology, spectacular whitewater, and hikes to little-known slot canyons. The final day, you’ll end your trip with a challenging, but rewarding 8 mile hike out of the canyon on the Bright Angel Trail. Because of this, you must call us to book — online reservations are not allowed.

Trip Information

5 Days, 4 Nights

5 Day Motor Hiker's Special Upper Canyon

Begins
Flagstaff, AZ
Ends
Flagstaff, AZ
River Miles
89 river miles from Marble Canyon to South Rim
Minimum Age
8 years of age

What's Included?

A rigorous 8 mile hike along Bright Angel Trail
An active adventure – be prepared for the physical nature of the trip
Round-trip ground transportation from Flagstaff, AZ
89 river miles on our motorized rafts
Experienced river and hiking guides
Side hikes to scenic vistas, hidden waterfalls, and more
Two dry bags and a camp chair
A tent, cot, pillow, sleeping bag, and sheet
Daily meals prepared in our camp kitchen
Snacks, water, electrolyte replenishment drinks, sodas
Arizona River Runners insulated cup

Cost listed above does not include: Lodging before and after your trip, National Park entrance fee, personal travel insurance, and gratuity.

>Reservation Info/Cancellation Policy

2026 Trip Dates

September

September 7-11

Trip Itinerary

Pre-Trip

Plan to arrive in Flagstaff at least one day before your trip departs. A representative from Arizona River Runners will meet guests early in the morning on the first day of your trip in the lobby of the designated hotel. We will send hotel reservation instructions once you book your trip.

Day 1

Meet a representative early in the morning at the designated hotel in Flagstaff. Board the shuttle for the scenic 2.5-hour drive to Marble Canyon. Everyone will meet together with the river guides for orientation. Guests repack into the provided dry bags and get underway by mid-morning. Let the journey begin!

River Days

Each day there are opportunities to soak up the Grand Canyon vistas, experience the biggest whitewater in North America, and explore various side canyons, waterfalls, and streams. At midday, lunch is prepared on the sandy beaches next to the river. After a full day, it will be time to set up camp and then relax while sharing stories with new friends. As the sun sets over the canyon walls, appreciate a good night’s rest under a starry sky.

Final Day

Early in the morning on the last day, the rafts reach Pipe Creek Boat Beach, and guests pack up for the intense 8-mile hike out of the canyon via the Bright Angel Trail. The trail is well maintained, but it is all uphill, gains a vertical mile of elevation, and much of it is in full sun. There are many log steps and switchbacks built into the trail, and it gets steepest as you approach the South Rim.

After completing your hike out, you will meet our shuttle for the ride back to the designated hotel in Flagstaff, AZ. You will return in the evening, so we recommend staying another night in Flagstaff.