Years ago when I started working for OARS,  we had an annual trip for people who wanted to spend extra time in the Canyon.  It was designed to allow folks to hike every day and see places not easily when on a 13 day trip through Grand Canyon.  We called it the "Hiker's Special."  For one reason or another, the popularity of the trip faded, so OARS stopped booking it.

A few years ago, however, we got a few people together who wanted to revive the concept. So we set up a Hiker's Special for the first 3 weeks of that April.  To make a long and beautiful story short... it was awesome.  17 glorious days from Lees Ferry to Diamond Creek, with no passenger exchange at Phantom Ranch. In other words, everyone who started the trip was there at the end.

We decided to run the trip in early April for a few reasons.  First, there is very little traffic that time of year.  We saw 3 other groups the entire 17 days.  For days in a row it felt like we were the only ones on the planet.  Second, the weather is cool, so we can hike like crazy.  Let's face it...   hiking is much more efficient, and often more enjoyable, if it's 75 rather than 100 degrees.  Lastly, there are blankets of wildflowers, all the cactus gardens are in full bloom, and the Canyon is green and spectacular.

The trip was an overwhelming success.  We don't have a Hiker's Special every Spring, but  in these next few years we're very much looking forward to both Spring and Fall 17 day trips whenever possible.  Some years, like this year and next, we split thetrip, but still take our time and emphasize hiking.

If being in the Canyon for nearly 3 weeks and really getting in touch with what is 
going on in there (both the Canyon and your head) sounds like your bag...
give me a shout and let's talk... it is one of the best things you'll ever do for yourself.

Contact us for the latest trip price.

 between a rock and ... well, another rock