Grand Canyon Update

As many of you may have heard, a devastating wildfire—now known as the Dragon Bravo Fire—has severely impacted the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. In addition to the heartbreaking destruction of historic landmarks, the North Rim is now closed for the remainder of the season, making it impossible for us to proceed with this year’s planned Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim (R2R2R) expedition.

While we’re saddened by the loss and the impact this has had on the Grand Canyon and surrounding communities, our mission remains unchanged.

We’re actively working to secure a new expedition within the next 10 days—one that is both mentally and physically challenging, and that places us in uncomfortable situations that reflect, in a small way, the daily realities faced by people living with multiple sclerosis and breast cancer. That’s what this climb is all about.

We’re confident and excited about the new challenge ahead and will share details with you as soon as they’re confirmed.

Thank you for standing with us—and for supporting life-changing research.

With gratitude,

Andy

On this epic Grand Canyon hike, we’ll start from the South Rim and descend into the Canyon at dark and head down 3,500’ via the Bright Angel Trail. After crossing the Colorado River and having lunch at Fantom Ranch, we’ll test our personal limits and complete the 23 mile hike by ascending 4,000’ feet to the North Rim.

A hot dinner and set-up tents will meet us at camp. We’ll get some sleep and delicious hot coffee before heading back in the other direction. We’ll descend from the North Rim via the North Kaibab Trail and 14.3 miles and 6,000 feet to the bottom of the canyon before connecting with the Bright Angel Trail and climbing 4,500 feet and 9.6 miles back out again to the South Rim.

All this effort to benefit Jodi's Climb for Hope which support disease research on MS and Breast Cancer. Jodi’s Climb for Hope has raised over $1 million for breast cancer and MS research. More importantly, it’s sped up research by identifying promising research and provides quick, easy funding. Those researchers are then able to get proof of concept and raise much more money from traditional funding sources. This helps get better treatments to market fastest.

Important Considerations:

The entire distance is about 50 miles with 7,000+ feet elevation up and down.
Expect stretches of direct sun and high temps for hours
Camping at night can get down to 30 degrees
One guide will stay at the front of the group and one to the back – no one goes it alone!
The journey is strenuous and physical training is necessary preparation
You may opt to hike both days (rim-to-rim-to-rim) or just the second day (rim-to-rim)

Itinerary

DAY 1: Fly into Phoenix, please arrive by noon. Drive to South Rim together in expedition van (6 hrs)Camp at Mather Campground in the Grand Canyon VillageEvening gear check, group introductions, team motivations and prepare for hike.

DAY 2: Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim Group: Early wake up and start down 3,500 feet via the Bright Angel Trail. After crossing the Colorado River and having lunch at Phantom Ranch, we'll test our personal limits and complete the 23 mile hike by ascending 4,000 feet to the North Rim. Rim-to-Rim Group: has a relaxed morning exploring the South Rim, drive 4 hours to North Rim, assists in setting up camp. Group convenes at the North Rim Campground for the night, dinner provided!

DAY 3: All team members wake early to cross the North to South Rim. We'll descend from the North Rim via the North Kaibab Trail. The hike is 14.3 miles and 6,000 feet to the bottom of the canyon before connecting with the Bright Angel Trail and climbing 4,500 feet and 9.6 miles back out again to the South Rim. Camp again at Mather Campground.

DAY 4: Wake up at your leisure, the team will enjoy a big breakfast to recover, sharing stories of what we just endured. Tour more of the South Rim if you would like.Depart the South Rim for Phoenix, AZ around 2 pm (4.5 hour drive) Dinner and closing ceremony

DAY 5: Depart for home

RELATED NEWS & MEDIA

Grand Canyon Rim to Rim to Rim Fall '25

By Climb for Hope Inc

Grand Canyon Rim to Rim to Rim Fall '25

Oct 3-7, 2025

Team Members