Grand Canyon Hiking SenorYermo.com

For any backpacking trip in Grand Canyon, the season of the year and weather forecast are what dictate the answer to this question. Between late autumn and early spring, nighttime temperatures below the Rim can range from cold to below freezing. If that happens to be the season of your trek, you’ll be glad you packed along a lightweight sleeping bag that is appropriately rated for the expected temperatures. Just make sure it’s synthetic unless you have a trustworthy waterproof tent or shelter.

During the intense heat of summer, when the use of a sleeping bag is largely unnecessary, many experienced Grand Canyon backpackers will abandon the item entirely. If you’re confident that dry weather will dominate the forecast for your trek, then perhaps a sleeping pad with a sheet or light blanket is all you need. Any time you can possibly ditch extra pack weight is an option worth considering.