Guest blog by GCW guest Lilli Higgins. Lilli is a blogger who went on a 4 Day Motor w/ Hike Out trip.

I took a nap on a rock that was formed 1.8 billion years ago while a full lunch was being prepared, hopped from layer to layer on rocks that swing the Little Colorado to meet the Colorado, and watched the sunset behind a scene that has been the cover of National Geographic – twice. I hiked through millions of layers of history, jumped into waters that have carved and still carve one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World, and watched the moon rise over towering walls while sharing stories with strangers-turned-friends. All while traversing 89 river miles with homemade meals and the most comfortable cots I’ve encountered.

I was lucky enough to get my first glances of the Grand Canyon when I was on a road trip in 8th grade and, while I was in awe of the sights, I had no idea the difference in perspective one can gain when seeing the same view from the bottom. After a 3-night, 4-day rafting trip with Grand Canyon Whitewater (GCW), the view from the rim is even more spectacular.

Few people get to see the expanses of the Grand Canyon, especially without the know-how and experience of veteran guides. Even fewer get to see a night sky surrounded by towering canyon walls and endless stars and be woken with a “coffeeeeeee” call and warm breakfast waiting. This month, I was lucky enough to experience it all.
But … with a group of strangers?

Sure, when you first get on the boats you might not know who you’re getting splashed with, but after just a few hours we were laughing, swapping stories, and cheering each other on during our hike out. Turns out you get pretty close to folks when you share a groover!

A what?
Oh, right! I’m sure you’re wondering about the bathroom situation, and I’m here to quash any fears you might have. As for #1, your guides will remind you that “the solution to pollution is dilution” – easy! By urinating in the river, we save the sensitive ecosystem from turning into a giant litter box. As for #2 (gasp!), there’s a plan for that, too. Introducing the Groover! This vault toilet makes for an easy setup. There will be handwashing stations (crucial, even when at the bottom of a canyon) and a private area with your groover. It essentially works as a porta-potty and makes for a good chuckle when the guides load them up every morning before leaving camp. The best part? You get a fresh one every day! And I can guarantee you won’t be complaining about the bathroom views.

Okay, but the food is probably pretty basic, right?
W R O N G. While food does automatically taste better by the river – my own but very strong opinion – our guides cooked up meals better than I eat at home. I’m talking salmon, stir fry, pork chops, veggies, French toast, eggs made to order, wraps, endless snacks, and an impressive sandwich bar. You have access to the snacks, water, electrolytes, and your BYOB beverages throughout the day, and the guides are sure to emphasize the importance of staying fueled (which for me meant daily Twix bars and Pringles).

How was sleeping?
I slept like a baby! GCW will provide you with everything you need to stay cozy, including the comfiest cot I’ve ever encountered. Your dry bag will come with a sleeping bag, sheet, pillow, and you’ll have a cot, chair, and optional tent every night. I’m a big fan of cowboy camping, so I slept like a baby under the stars.

Do I have to have prior experience?
With rafting? Nope! Your guides will teach you what you need to know to be the best passenger on your trip. They’ll take care of the motoring while you soak in the sights and stories of the canyon. However, this trip specifically requires a strenuous, challenging hike at the end, and I’d recommend following GCW’s training plans and hiking regularly to prepare. You’ll be hiking over 4,000 feet in elevation in a harsh environment, and nothing is worse than feeling unprepared in the heat. Give Grand Canyon Whitewater a call to chat hike details, requirements, and expectations. We also had a few stunning side hikes during our trip to check out the Nankoweap Granaries (a view that has captured the cover of National Geographic twice), the Little Colorado River, and expansive slot canyons.

So, was the hike out tough?
Sure was! I myself am an avid hiker and still felt the impact of the early heat. Having proper hiking shoes/boots and a supportive (and not overpacked) backpack made for a much easier day. Plus, there will be guides bringing up the rear for the entire hike to make sure everyone reaches the rim safely. Bring snacks, take breaks, and enjoy the views! I loved seeing the rock layers change as we ascended, especially after learning about the different layers. Something about seeing the canyon from the bottom, middle, and top made for a perfect experience. Don’t forget to look around as you hike! We were able to recognize the different layers of rock as we ascended, as though speeding through time back to the present. Not to mention, our group met up at the Bright Angel Lodge afterward to celebrate our accomplishment.

But my wardrobe!
Trust me, you don’t need as many things as you think. And remember, you’ll be carrying it alllllll out with you on this trip. You’ll want to rewear clothes and all of it will be dusty, so don’t worry! We’re all in the same boat (see what I did there?).

Any other recommendations before I get there?

Of course! Besides following GCW’s training plan and packing list, I absolutely recommend checking out some books to get familiar with and excited about your trip ahead. The Emerald Mile by Kevin Fedarko details the history of rafting the Colorado and the canyon itself. The tales of speed runs, early explorers, fights for conservation, and wild discoveries will get you stoked to hit the river. It was jaw-dropping to hear stories of early explorers and guides running rapids with no idea what was around the corner and then getting to pass those same spots in our boats. Fedarko also just released his new book A Walk in the Park!

Ask your guides questions! About life on the river, the geological structures, stories from past trips, and the legends of the river. Their knowledge of and passion for this place makes for an even more memorable experience. And you never know – they might have a personal connection with those legends of the Colorado.

Other than that, sit back, relax, and enjoy a few days disconnected from the world to experience life at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. Grand Canyon Whitewater will take care of literally everything else.

I’m stoked for you to experience a once-in-a-lifetime trip—just know I wish I was with you!