Trip Itinerary
Day 1:
The Paria Canyon Backpacking tour starts at the White House Trailhead near the Arizona/Utah border. After final preparations, you will begin your hike along the Paria River. The wide, shallow canyon quickly narrows as the sandstone walls begin to rise overhead. There are frequent stream crossings as you make your way deeper and deeper into this stone labyrinth. Eventually you will arrive at your first night’s camp near the confluence with world-famous Buckskin Gulch, considered the longest slot canyon in the world. Kick back and relax as your guide sets up camp and prepares a delicious dinner.
Drive Time: 3.5 hours
Distance & Elevation: 9 miles, 160 foot descent
Light Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 2:
Today’s adventure starts with a breathtaking stroll up Buckskin Gulch, made all the more enjoyable without your backpack! Bring your camera…this canyon is outstanding. Returning to camp, we’ll pack up and head further into the depths of Paria Canyon. Expect another day of frequent creek crossings, towering canyon walls and “out-of-this-world” scenery.
Distance & Elevation: 9 miles, 160 foot descent
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3:
Your third day offers beautiful sandstone walls, freshwater springs and world-class hiking. A short side hike will take you to Wrather Arch, a natural sandstone feature spanning over 200 feet. It is one of the most secluded natural arches in the Southwest. Tonight’s camp will be in the vicinity of Shower Spring.
Distance & Elevation: 9 miles, 350 foot descent
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4:
Today’s hike will see Paria Canyon begin to open up as you leave the narrows and enter its wider downstream reaches. Keep your eyes open for ancient petroglyphs, etchings left in the rocks and boulders by ancient civilizations traveling through the area. In warmer weather, you will find some nice pools to cool off in on your way to camp near Wilson Ranch.
Distance & Elevation: 12 miles, 600 foot descent
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5:
Our final day on the trail is a relatively short one but offers the great reward of completing a truly wonderful journey. Soak in the scenery of 2500 foot cliffs surrounding the wide open valley of the lower Paria River and the multi-colored rock layers. The trail ends at Lonely Dell Ranch, a historic homestead and lush orchard a short walk from the Colorado River and Lee’s Ferry, the official beginning of Grand Canyon. Your shuttle driver will meet you here and prepare a tasty lunch by the banks of the river before packing up and heading back to Flagstaff.
Distance & Elevation: 5 miles, minimal descent
Breakfast, Lunch
Drive Time: 2 hours
6-Day Option:
This longer itinerary allows for a slower pace and some shorter backpacking miles each day. It will also allow for more time to explore side canyons and just take time to relax and enjoy your amazing surroundings. The 6-day itinerary requires a minimum of 4 people to book a custom tour.
*Final itineraries are occasionally subject to change due to permit/campsite availability, park restrictions/closures, weather conditions and/or road closures.