Grand Canyon Hiking / Backcountry Permits

[TJ Karakowski]

Hi NJ Hiking Gang! I was curious if anyone here can provide any advice about planning a multiday (3-4 day) backpacking trip of the Grand Canyon? I'm doing the research now, and realize that getting these backcountry passes during prime time (May/September/October) is very difficult.

My first choice would be a N. Rim to S. Rim hike, but I'm realizing that, more realistically, hiking off season (Nov/Dec/Jan) and from the South Rim to the River and back to the South Rim (because the North Rim is closed after Oct 15th) might be more feasible/likely as I don't want to spend the next 10 years hoping to get a permit. Obviously as a first timer, I'd be using the main Corridor trails (Kaibabs and Bright Angel), although if anyone has experience with the Hermit Trail I'd love to hear that also.

Thanks in advance for any insights you can offer -TJK