3-day hike to Horseshoe Mesa in the Grand Canyon, Arizona

Surround yourself in the dazzling topography of the Grand Canyon as we hike into the remoter regions in search for fascinating views and blissful solitude.

We will hike along one of the most spectacular trails in the canyon towards a mesa that extends into the canyon like the deck of a battleship.

The Horseshoe Mesa gives a collection of attractions, including the rusty remnants of the mining infrastructure left in 1916. Now it’s a protected part of the canyon; a preserved piece of history melded into the rock.

Beginning with a descent, we hike along an historic indigenous route and explore the remains of the mining industry, once abundant in the area. This section is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

We then explore the edges of the Horseshoe Mesa, appreciating the views of the inner gorge. Here we witness the gushing of the Colorado River, a dizzying 2,500 feet below us.

Then it’s on to the Miner’s Spring, a further piece of mining history that contains an oasis in the Grand Canyon desert.

There is opportunity to climb into Cave of the Domes, the only cave open to the public in the national park.

Retracing our steps back on the Grandview Trail, we’ll have the chance to visit any features of the canyon that we didn’t see in the previous days.

The level for this 3-day canyon hike is intermediate. On the first day we will be clocking up 3.5 miles, on the second day around 7 miles, and finishing the third day with another 3.5 miles. In total we will cover 14 miles (23 kilometers).

Reserve your place among the majestic scenery of the wild Grand Canyon on this 3-day hike to the Horseshoe Mesa.