One of the most iconic ultra runs in the country. It’s written on many of our bucket-lists. The Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim (R2R2R) is an unforgettable challenge in one of nature’s greatest wonders.

If you have been following along to our site or socials, you know our focus right now is all over this.

We have several people in our obstacle course racing (OCR) community that are going after this R2R2R challenge right now and later in the fall. And it seemed appropriate to expand some content here.

As OCR athletes, we enjoy jumping walls, climbing ropes and maneuvering across rigs on the weekend. But if you take those obstacles out, many of us have a true love and passion for the trails.

What else do we have a passion for?

PUSHING OURSELVES.

Finding out what we’re really capable of. Going after new personal records (PR’s). Signing up for harder races and longer challenges.

So it’s no surprise that many of us have an interest when it comes to R2R2R.

If you don’t know much about the R2R2R challenge. This post is a quick introduction.

Discussing the Trails, Course options, what you’ll find through the Canyon, Weather and Timing considerations.

The Trails

There are 3 primary trails people use when doing R2R2R. The two trails on the South Rim are the most popular starting and ending points.

Your decision on which trails to take depends on weather, where you traveled in from, where you parked and how you want to end. Check out some details below.

BRIGHT ANGEL – The first trailhead on the South Rim. Bright Angel sits at 6,860 ft. and it’s the most popular option for completion.

• Pro: No shuttle service required. Easy access from your car or campground to the Trailhead.
• Pro: A more gradual incline when coming back versus South Kaibab.
• Pro: More bathroom and water options.
• Con: It is 2.5 miles longer than South Kaibab.

SOUTH KAIBAB – The other trailhead option on the South Rim. South Kaibab sits at 7,260 ft. and is the most popular Start and End point for PR and fastest known time (FKT) attempts.

• Pro: It’s 2.5 miles shorter than taking Bright Angel & typically preferred if going for time or an FKT.
• Con: It sits 400ft higher than Bright Angel. So you do encounter more uphill gain.
• Con: Steeper and more challenging of a trail than Bright Angel.
• Con: Less water and bathroom options available.
• Con: Closed during winter months for waterline construction. Usually December 1st – April 14th.

NORTH KAIBAB – Located on the North Rim and sitting higher in altitude at 8,241 ft. You’re more likely to see snow on this side depending on the season. Starting on the North Rim is least common as it sees a longer winter and is only open between May 15th – October 15th. It is difficult to get to. And there are less amenities and attractions and lodging options versus the South Rim.

On The Trail

There are amenities along the trails to help you complete this journey.

The map below is a good representation of what you can find as you move through.

There are 14 bathrooms and 12 water stations along your journey.
And as we mentioned, South Kaibab has the least offerings. Which could be a factor if you want to make a slow grind coming back this way to finish.

Phantom Ranch sits at the bottom of the Canyon where the three trails meet. It offers cabins and meals if your trip involves staying overnight in the Canyon. But if just passing through on your R2R2R trek. It’s still a great pit stop if you have time. The lemonade they offer is a classic and tastes so good, boosting your energy along your run.

Note: Depending on the time of year, weather and potential construction. The water and bathroom options are not always available. So be prepared and check the National Park Services website for current news and updates on this before your trip.

Completing R2R2R

Probably the most important question people have when first considering R2R2R is whether or not they can actually do it.

Let’s look at completing this challenge in two ways:

1.) You have a goal of just Completing R2R2R, and

2.) Going for time, a PR or FKT attempt.

For the average runner going out to complete. The suggested time of year for this is April and November. During the winter months you’ll likely encounter a good bit of snow on the North Rim. And the summer months can get brutal down in the Canyon, often exceeding 100 degrees.

The time it takes to complete is all over the place and will depend on your goals for the day, your fitness level, temperatures you face, the route you take, etc.
But we often see people taking 12-16 hours to finish this. Be prepared to be out there ALL DAY.

Now, if you’re looking to go quick. If you want a new PB or to go after an FKT.

I reviewed 17 individuals who have recorded FKT’s. Even if a new FKT wasn’t obtained, it can be assumed that these people took this record seriously and chose the best conditions for their attempt.

The times range from 6-10 hours. Because of this, there’s opportunity to head out early in the morning and finish before experiencing the high temperatures of the Canyon.

Longer FKT’s were not included. Because they will experience the highest temperatures in the Canyon, which could adjust their ideal timeframe in going out.

Here are some quick stats when it comes to the 17 listed FKT holders.

• 41% of the attempts occurred in a ONE WEEK period. November 3rd – November 10th, and
• 53% of the attempts occurred in a TWO WEEK period. November 3rd – November 16th.
• 23% of the attempts occurred in the early spring between April 19th – May 13th.

One outlier that’s interesting is that Jim Walmsley, holding the Supported record. Set it on October 5th. A FULL MONTH before the most popular window.

For some further names, times and dates regarding FKT’s on R2R2R check out the picture below and the FKT website.

Final Wrap-up

To summarize this quick introduction on running R2R2R.

Head out April, May, October or November.

Start and end with Bright Angel if you’re looking for the Easiest route.

Take South Kaibab down and back for Time.

Be prepared for a 12+ hour day with lots of miles, steep climbing and big temperature swings.

And finally. Take in the sights of this epic place and enjoy the journey.