This morning we will begin our descent of the North Bass Trail, first carved out by William Wallace Bass.  Mr. Bass was one of the first to recognize the Canyon’s potential as a tourist attraction, and bushwhacked this trail down to the river where he would host folks from around the world.  Today, the trail is rocky and adventurous, so there’s no hurry.  Our descent to the Colorado River will take 3 days, giving us great opportunities to explore the secret gems of Grand Canyon.

Elevation & Distance: 22.5 miles, 6000 foot descent
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We will reach the Colorado River, where our adventure truly begins!  We’ll take out our packrafts and paddles, navigating the mighty Colorado down to Bass Camp and its fabulous beach.  After drinking in the stunning scenery and reflecting on our descent, we begin the trek to the South Rim.  We’ll spend our final night on the Esplanade before going topside, where our shuttle will be waiting.  

Elevation & Distance: 6-12 miles each day, 300-600 foot elevation gain/loss per day
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 Blue Marble takes care of all meals on your tour.  Starting with breakfast on your first day through lunch the final day, your geologist/guide will prepare a variety of chef-inspired meals on the trail and in camp.  All dietary needs are accommodated, so please get in touch with us to give us details of your requirements. There may be times where special needs necessitate a small rate increase.

Meals with include one main dish, which is prepared by your geologist/guide. Fresh options may be limited, as backpacking typically requires lightweight, non-perishable foods. Trail snacks will include meats, cheeses, nuts, chocolate, and other filling, delicious, and varying backcountry food.

• Transportation to and from the host city/hotel

• Lodging prior to and following your trip

• Gear such as clothes, rainwear, and boots/shoes

• Personal items such as toiletries and sunscreen

• BMAG does not provide water bottles or Camelback-Style bladders

• Personal lighting such as headlamps or flashlights

• We suggest gratuities for your guide, typically 10-15% of the total trip cost

*Booked guests will receive a detailed information packet

Standard backpacking tours will accommodate 6 people plus one geologist/guide.  The maximum group size is 10 guests and 2 guides.

Children under 12 are generally not permitted on any of Blue Marble’s scheduled trips due to insurance liabilities. This can be negotiable on private tours, please contact us to discuss this policy

Tour bookings can be completed through our online booking platform or through our office.  A 50% deposit is required, and the full trip rate will be due 90 days prior to trip departure.  Bookings within the 90-day window require payment in full.  Trip rates are payable through our online booking platform or over the phone by Visa, MasterCard, AmEx, or Discover.  Checks by mail are fine as well, as are bank transfers ($35 transfer fee).

Call our office Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm Arizona time. 1-602-904-2536, or contact us for more information.

A pre-trip briefing is held at the host hotel the evening before trip departure.  Any questions will be answered, and you will have the opportunity to discuss anything you wish with your geologist/guide. Most trips will depart between 6am and 9am the following morning.

BMAG provides all transport throughout the trip.  Our guests staying at the host hotel may choose to leave their car at the hotel. Our designated host hotels will typically store your luggage if necessary.  In the event that this cannot be arranged, BMAG is more than happy to store luggage and personal belongings in a private and secure location during your tour.

In general, most trips can expect to be back to the host hotel by 6pm on the final day of the trip. Some trips may return earlier.  BMAG typically recommends that you do not plan to fly home on the same day your trip finishes. Each trip has its own particular set of circumstances and logistics, so please  contact us with any specific questions you may have.