The Grand Canyon is undisputedly one of the most spectacular hiking spots, not only in North America but in the world. Over millions of years, the Colorado River has carved a canyon 277 miles (446 km) long and 6,000 feet (1,829 m) deep at its deepest point. Hiking through the Grand Canyon is an epic adventure that reveals a breathtaking journey through geological time.

There are so many ways to enjoy this natural spectacle. Most of the millions of visitors to the national park are content to admire the canyon from the various viewpoints that dot the upper rims. Others, however, venture down part of the South Kaibab Trail to iconic sites such as Ooh Aah Point or Cedar Ridge. Only 1% of all visitors make the full descent to the bottom of the canyon, where the famous Phantom Ranch lodge and restaurant is located.

In this Collection, I challenge you to go much further and become one of the tiny minority of adventurers who discover the wildest and most remote facets of the Grand Canyon. I invite you to take this adventure in winter. Why? Between December and May, the road leading to the North Rim is closed to all vehicles. This means that the only way to get to this part of the Grand Canyon is to walk from the South Rim and then return the same way. Or, in other words, the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim to Rim Hike. In addition to gaining access to the North Rim, visiting the Grand Canyon in winter saves you from the soaring temperatures that make summer unpleasant, and even dangerous.

This winter adventure through the Grand Canyon totals 42 miles (68 km) over five stages. Due to the steepness of the route, I don’t recommend it for people with knee problems or vertigo, as there are several sections of narrow track with a steep drop.

To stay overnight at campsites in the Grand Canyon, you’ll need to apply for a Backcountry Permit. You can find all the information about permits and how to apply for them here: nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/backcountry-permit.htm.

Temperatures drop considerably at night in the Grand Canyon, especially in winter, when snow and ice are common. Camping and hiking gear must be suitable for cold temperatures and winter conditions. I’d also recommend bringing crampons and trekking poles.

In the winter months, the national park closes several of its drinking water sources. Check the park's website for information on where to refill bottles, and bring a water purification system for rivers and streams. With the exception of Phantom Ranch, where there’s a restaurant and a small shop, there are no other places offering groceries inside the canyon and you’ll need to plan food supplies accordingly.

The only way to get to the South Kaibab Trailhead is on one of the national park's free shuttle buses. These leave from the visitor centre every few minutes and drop you off at the trailhead. There’s also parking at the visitor centre should you choose to drive.

Hiking the Grand Canyon in winter, and exploring its many facets away from the crowds, is an experience as challenging as it is unforgettable – I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.