South Rim of the Grand Canyon Family Trip

ADVENTURE TYPE | ●︎ Introductory
TRIP DURATION | 5-Days
SEASON | June
PRICE | $1,845 pp

Experience the ultimate South Rim of the Grand Canyon family bike tour, where riders of all ages navigate the gentle, rolling singletrack of the Arizona Trail and secluded ponderosa forests. This fully supported Arizona cycling adventure handles every logistical detail from remote backcountry camping to the vehicle-free West Rim Drive, allowing your family to focus on true backcountry immersion and a dramatic hike into the heart of “The Big Ditch."

We will be without vehicle support during all of the singletrack sections of the ride, although it will never be too far away. Itineraries are subject to change due
to weather, road conditions, rider safety, and other factors which may affect the logistics of the adventure.

Road Surface: Dirt roads, smooth singletrack and pavement.
Overall Rating: Introductory
Technical Difficulty: Easy
Physical Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Altitude: 6,000 - 7,500 feet
Biking Mileage: 10-26 miles per day (optional extensions can bring the longest day’s riding up to 26 miles)
Hiking Mileage: One 3-6 mile hike (Day 4)
Packing for your trip

Day 1: Flagstaff to the Grandview Fire Tower

  • We’ll begin our journey with a shuttle from Flagstaff to Tusayan into one of the largest continuous Ponderosa pine forests in the world, starting our ride over 4,000 feet above the Colorado River on terrain that rises gently toward the rim.
  • Today we’ll pedal up to 20 miles on rolling forest roads where wildlife is abundant—including wild turkeys, mule deer, elk, and coyote—before camping near the Grandview Fire Tower, where a climb to the top offers views above the treetops and deep into the canyon.
  • TOTAL MILEAGE: 20 miles

Day 2: The Arizona Trail & Coconino Ridge

  • After a hearty breakfast, we’ll explore the hidden secrets of the ponderosa forest along the South Rim and hit some awesome singletrack on the Coconino Ridge section of the Arizona Trail, a route that covers 800 miles across the state.
  • We’ll return to our camp beneath the Grandview Fire Tower tonight and then drive a short shuttle over to Grandview Point after dinner to watch the sunset paint the walls of the canyon with vibrant colors and images you won’t soon forget.
  • TOTAL MILEAGE: 25 miles

Day 3: Tusayan & Mather Campground

  • Today we’ll ride a variety of trails and forest roads, beginning with a fun five-mile section of the Arizona Trail along the park boundary that leads into a network of trails with small ups, downs, and fun corners that make the riding very enjoyable.
  • After a quick stop in Tusayan, you can either ride or get in the van for the cruise to our home for the next two nights at Mather Campground inside the National Park, where the opportunities for activities are endless.
  • TOTAL MILEAGE: 18 - 26 miles,

Day 4: Bright Angel Hike & Junior Ranger Badges

  • We’ll begin with an easy ride from camp along the bike path to the top of the Bright Angel Trail, where we'll descend on foot through rock layers of sandstone, shale, and limestone as the massive scale of the canyon becomes more apparent.
  • After exploring the canyon interior and using the trail's convenient resthouses, our guides will help the kids get their Junior Ranger Badges before we return to Mather Campground for s‘mores and stories of what we’ve learned.
  • TOTAL MILEAGE: 3 miles riding, 3 - 6 miles hiking

Day 5: West Rim Drive & Hermits Rest

  • For our last day, we’ll connect with the scenic West Rim Drive for a beautiful 16-mile round trip paved ride to famous viewpoints like Powell Point, The Abyss, and Hermits Rest.
  • You may opt to visit the historic El Tovar Hotel or Kolb Studio, home of the canyon's pioneering photographers, before we regroup at the van for lunch and return to Flagstaff where our journey ends.
  • TOTAL MILEAGE: 10 - 20 miles

Flagstaff, AZ
This tour will begin at 8:00 AM MST

ENDING TIME

We will return to Flagstaff between 3:00-4:00 PM on the last day.

Driving
Flagstaff is located at the intersection of Interstates 40 and 17. There is parking available at the bike shop where the trip meets.

Flying into Flagstaff
Airport Code: FLG

Flying into Phoenix, AZ
Airport Code: PHX

There are two options:
1) Rent a car and park it at the bike shop while on the tour. It is 145 miles from Phoenix, about two hours.
2) Arizona Shuttle runs daily shuttles from Phoenix to Flagstaff. Reserve ahead: arizonashuttle.com, 800-888-2749.

Flying into Las Vegas, NV
Airport Code: LAS
Rent a car. It is a 250 mile drive, about four hours, from Las Vegas.

TAXI SERVICE
Apex Taxi: 928-779-0000
Friendly Cab: 928-774-4444

LODGING BEFORE YOUR TRIP

It is a good idea to book your rooms in advance; here are a few recommendations:

La Quinta
928-556-8666
This hotel is about one mile from the bike shop where the trip meets.

Aspen Inn B&B
www.flagstaffbedbreakfast.com
888-999-4110, 928-773-0295
Includes full breakfast.

Quality Inn
928-774-8771

Econolodge
928-774-7326

Need more information about our trips? Check out what a bike trip is all about by visiting our camping page, FAQ page,  what to bring page or be the first to know about new trips, last minute trip openings and future discounts by .

Need even more details? Send us a message or call and talk to one of our trip specialists at (435) 259-8732 

RIDING TYPE | ●︎ Introductory

TRIP DURATION | 5-Days

SEASON | June

-An Approachable Adventure Above the Big Ditch

South Rim of the Grand Canyon Family Trip

We start our trip on the Arizona Trail, which takes us through beautiful ponderosa forests on the plateau above the Grand Canyon. After two days of riding in the ponderosa forests, we’ll reach the edge of the "big ditch." On day three, a dramatic hike into the canyon offers us a new perspective of this incredible landscape.

The riding on this trip is quite gentle with very little elevation change, making it a great opportunity for families of all ages to experience singletrack. We avoid the crowds along the rim of the canyon and camp instead in more remote areas which we’ll have all to ourselves. We finish the trip with a ride along the West Rim Drive, which is closed to vehicles, giving us a chance to visit many of the classic viewpoints by bike. The rolling singletrack of the Arizona Trail is a great, approachable experience for those just getting into mountain biking.

Why Families Love the South Rim Adventure

  • Rolling Singletrack: Perfect for beginners, the South Rim portion of the Arizona Trail offers fun, non-technical riding.
  • Junior Ranger Program: Our guides help kids engage with the park's history and geology to earn their official badges.
  • Vehicle-Free Viewpoints: Enjoy the spectacular West Rim Drive without the stress of private car traffic.
  • Remote Camping: Experience the quiet of the Kaibab National Forest and the dark night skies of the canyon rim.

-DAY-BY-DAY

We will be without vehicle support during all of the singletrack sections of the ride, although it will never be too far away. Itineraries are subject to change due
to weather, road conditions, rider safety, and other factors which may affect the logistics of the adventure.

  • Road Surface: Dirt roads, smooth singletrack and pavement.
  • Overall Rating: Introductory
  • Technical Difficulty: Easy
  • Physical Difficulty: Easy to moderate
  • Altitude: 6,000 - 7,500 feet
  • Biking Mileage: 10-26 miles per day (optional extensions can bring the longest day’s riding up to 26 miles)
  • Hiking Mileage: One 3-6 mile hike (Day 4)

MEETING PLACE AND TIME

Flagstaff, AZ
This tour will begin at 8:00 AM MST

ENDING TIME

We will return to Flagstaff between 3:00-4:00 PM on the last day.

GETTING TO FLAGSTAFF, AZ

Driving
Flagstaff is located at the intersection of Interstates 40 and 17. There is parking available at the bike shop where the trip meets.

Flying into Flagstaff
Airport Code: FLG

Flying into Phoenix, AZ
Airport Code: PHX

There are two options:
1) Rent a car and park it at the bike shop while on the tour. It is 145 miles from Phoenix, about two hours.
2) Arizona Shuttle runs daily shuttles from Phoenix to Flagstaff. Reserve ahead: arizonashuttle.com, 800-888-2749.

Flying into Las Vegas, NV
Airport Code: LAS
Rent a car. It is a 250 mile drive, about four hours, from Las Vegas.

TAXI SERVICE
Apex Taxi: 928-779-0000
Friendly Cab: 928-774-4444

LODGING BEFORE YOUR TRIP

It is a good idea to book your rooms in advance; here are a few recommendations:

La Quinta
928-556-8666
This hotel is about one mile from the bike shop where the trip meets.

Aspen Inn B&B
www.flagstaffbedbreakfast.com
888-999-4110, 928-773-0295
Includes full breakfast.

Quality Inn
928-774-8771

Econolodge
928-774-7326

Be sure to bring everything on this list. We have carefully developed this list to ensure your comfort on the tour regardless of the weather. If you are prepared for extreme weather, it is an adventure. If you are not prepared it can be a serious problem. We recommend the layering system, including a wicking or long underwear layer, an insulating layer and a weather barrier for wind and rain. This list reflects that philosophy. Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable so be sure to bring all the warm clothing and rain gear listed!

HOW TO PACK: The bulk of your gear and clothing will ride in the Western Spirit support vehicle (preferably in a large duffle bag) and will not be accessible during the day.

For this trip, you will need a riding pack and optional day bag:

  • Your riding pack may be a hydration pack, but needs to carry 2-3 liters of water, rain gear, other warm clothing, and food for the day. You may be away from camp and the support vehicle all day and need to be self-sufficient.
  • A small day bag is optional and may be used to store things you’d rather not ride with, but would like to have access to during the day. This daypack will remain with the support vehicle and may not be accessible, depending on the day.

WHAT WE PROVIDE:
✓ meals, snacks, water, electrolyte drinks, non-alcoholic drinks
✓ camp mugs, all kitchen and dining ware
✓ 1 cycling water bottle
✓ camp chairs
✓ solar showers
✓ sunscreen & bug spray
✓ bike stand and lube
✓ guides bring their own tools
✓ first aid kit with basic medications

BRINGING OR RENTING

o mountain bike (Our rentals come with flat pedals. You are welcome to bring your own if you prefer.)
o helmet (gratis w/rental bike)
o tent
o sleeping bag
o sleeping pad

CYCLING CLOTHING

o cycling shoes
o 3 - 5 pair cycling shorts
o 3 - 5 cycling shirts
o long sleeve cycling shirt
o long sleeve cotton shirt or solar sleeves
o cycling socks
o windbreaker
o tights or leg warmers
o 2 pair cycling gloves (1 pair full length for warmth)
o rain jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
o rain pants (Gore-Tex or similar)
o warm layer (lightweight synthetic puffy jacket or long sleeve fleece shirt)
o sunglasses or other eye protection

CAMP CLOTHING

o camp shorts
o shirts
o warm socks
o long underwear, top and bottom (wicking layer, not cotton)
o 2 pair warm long pants
o long sleeve fleece or sweater
o pile or down jacket (insulating layer)
o warm gloves and hat
o brimmed hat or visor
o bathing suit (for solar showers on the trip and at the hotel before/after your trip)
o hiking shoes
o sandals
o rain gear to wear in camp

PERSONAL

o toiletries
o medication (daily and emergency)
o towel
o biodegradable soap
o wet-wipes
o flashlight or headlamp (with extra batteries)
o sunglasses
o optional day bag
o stuff sacks or reusable grocery bags (or separate compartments for your dry bag)
o cash for tipping guides: your guides work as a team and share all of their gratuities. A tip of 10-20% of the price of your trip given to either one of your guides when you return to civilization is a great way to say thanks for a job well done.

OPTIONAL

o camera, extra batteries
o binoculars
o alcoholic or any of your favorite beverages (your guides will pack these)
o books or maps
o we encourage you to turn your devices off, but if you cannot, please bring a way to charge them. We recommend a portable USB charger with 1-2 charges. Also, putting your phone on airplane mode to save power is recommended.

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Need more information about our trips? Check out what a bike trip is all about by visiting our camping page, FAQ page,  what to bring page or be the first to know about new trips, last minute trip openings and future discounts by .

Need even more details? Send us a message or call and talk to one of our trip specialists at (435) 259-8732 

South Rim of the Grand Canyon Family Trip

PRICE | $1,845 pp

Private Departures Available
Call  435-259-8732

-A DAY WITH

Western Spirit

Three chapters to every day on the trail. We sweat the details so you can simply ride, eat well, and look up.

A Day With

Rise & Shine

Wake to cowboy coffee on the rim, fresh fruit, pancakes and granola. Unforgettable sunrises over the canyon — every single morning.

Midday

Hit The Trail

From the Rainbow Rim Trail to the White Rim Road in Canyonlands, our guides put you on the right line for breathtaking Grand Canyon views.

Evening

Apres

We pick camps for a reason. Rivers, lakes, sunset vistas — and a chef-prepared meal under one of the darkest skies in the lower 48.

TRIP TESTIMONIALS

The food was fantastic! I didn’t expect such meals. The guides were so friendly, helpful, and entertaining. They really worked well together. Also, they made sure that everyone in their various skill levels enjoyed the rides and that there was enough for everyone.

~ Nichole

“I was tired at the end of each day and to have everything taken care of as far as dinner and cleanup, it was so nice to have that not be my issue. The guides were amazing, simply amazing….the food was always excellent, their personalities are different but blended with everyone perfectly!”

~ Pam

Your guides are your ambassadors, they are fun, energetic and very knowledgeable. I would not do anything different.

~ Paul

“I had been to Canyonlands two years prior so knew scenery was outstanding but it takes on even more magnificence when seen from seat of bike. The guides were awesome and supportive. Food was better than in most restaurants and more than you could eat.”

~ Michael

“To begin with the landscape and scenery was majestic and awesome. The guides were all instrumental in enhancing the experience with their knowledge, skills, and out of the goodness of their character.”

~ Edward

“The trip was one of the most incredible experiences of my life… the scenery, the views, the guides, and the food! I loved how great the meals were!!! The guides were unbelievable cooks! After biking all day, to be able to sit down and eat a great meal & drink a beer …man, it was great!”

~ Gary

“Very accommodating of me being vegan, very cheerful and nice.”

~ Jason

The guides made the trip totally beyond awesome. They were fun, the food was WAY better than I expected, the rides could be were tailored, guiding was superb, trails were a blast, our campsite was sweet. I have zero complaints.

~ Wendy

“Great salads at lunch, a lot of variety, they guides had food specially prepared for those of us with food issues. Plus, they set up our chairs in the best spots!”

~ Teri

“Normally I do self supported but having someone else make excellent food makes me want to do it again”

~ Christl

“Food was WAY better than I expected. I like to eat healthy and was worried about “camping food.” The guides prepared amazing food. The trip was a blast in general with gorgeous scenery and good campsites. Guides were very friendly, patient and helpful”

~ Erika

Great salads at lunch, a lot of variety, they guides had food specially prepared for those of us with food issues. Plus, they set up our chairs in the best spots!

~ Teri

“Warmth, humor, seriously good people skills,professionalism, competence. They execute their very serious responsibilities with confidence-inspiring grace.”

~ David

“This was our 3rd trip with Western Spirit, so we knew what to expect from the guides and the support they’d provide. The trip itself was spectacular – the scenery was unbeatable and the weather was perfect.”

~ Jennifer
“I was worried riding and camping with a group… could I keep up?… would I “fit in”? I was able to keep up and push myself and was challenged by the terrain, I loved it! The group was great I had nothing to worry about, everyone was friendly and supportive.”
~ Robin

“It’s been a long time since I’ve been on any organized event and this one was simply amazing. My skill and fitness level were not up to those as others in the group but never once did I feel intimidated…”

~ Nick

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