The Grand Canyon Rim to Rim: A Journey Through Nature and Family Legacy

Here at Near Zero, we LOVE the Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim hike! It's one of the most breathtaking, challenging, and rewarding experiences, and it's become one of our founder and owner, Scott Jensen's, favorite parts of living in Arizona. If you're passionate about hiking and pushing your limits, this adventure will take you through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the world. But for Scott, this hike means even more—it's tied to family, tradition, and a legacy of resilience.

My First Rim-to-Rim Experience

The first time Scott hiked Rim to Rim (R2R) was a day that will always hold a special place in his heart. Scott completed the hike in just one day alongside his 63-year-old father, Dean, and his 10-year-old son—three generations of hikers sharing an unforgettable journey.

The three trained in preparation for the hike, knowing how physically demanding it would be, but the experience was worth every effort. The sense of accomplishment and the bonding time with his father and son, as they traversed the canyon's steep trails, deep gorges, and stunning vistas, made it a memory for a lifetime.

Dean's Unstoppable Spirit

Soon after their adventure, Dean began regularly hiking the Grand Canyon's Rim-to-Rim route, which inspired him to set an incredible goal. When Dean was 70 years old, he made it his mission to hike the canyon once a month for a year and exceeded that goal by hiking the canyon 13 times in just one year! 

Dean had an unstoppable spirit. Hiking became more than just a pastime for him; it became his lifeline, literally! Two years later, Dean suddenly passed away from a heart attack. It was unexpected and heartbreaking, but his family learned later that his active lifestyle had given him years that he otherwise wouldn't have had. Doctors discovered that 3 out of 4 of Dean's arteries were clogged, and most likely had been for the last 5 to 10 years. His regular hikes had kept him healthier and alive longer than anyone could have imagined.

Honoring Dean's Memory

After Scott's father passed away in 2018, Scott felt compelled to honor his father's memory in a way that would be meaningful to both Dean and Scott. Dean's strength, resilience, and love for the outdoors were traits Scott wanted to carry forward. In his honor, Scott started Near Zero and named its flagship backpack "The DEAN" as a tribute to Dean's spirit and the legacy he left behind.

Every year, Scott's family hikes the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim in memory of Dean. It's become a tradition that not only helps his family stay connected to his adventurous spirit but also serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance, health, and the beauty of nature. Each step through the canyon, whether navigating the rugged switchbacks or marveling at the canyon's grandeur, feels like a connection to Dean and the countless adventures he and Scott shared.

Why the Rim to Rim Hike is So Special

For those who have never hiked the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim, it's an unparalleled experience. The route typically covers about 24 miles, taking you from the North Rim to the South Rim or vice versa. You'll pass through towering cliffs, lush valleys, and unique ecosystems as the temperature and terrain shift dramatically from rim to canyon floor. It's challenging for both body and mind, but the sense of accomplishment at the end is unmatched.

The hike is more than just physical—it's a mental and emotional journey. Every hiker brings their own story, and for Scott, it's a way to reconnect with family and reflect on the life lessons he learned from his father.

Preparing for Your Rim-to-Rim Adventure

Like Scott and Dean's experience, preparation is vital for a successful Rim to Rim hike. Training ahead of time is essential, especially since the trail can be demanding due to elevation changes and extreme weather conditions. Here are a few tips from Scott's experience:

• Train with Elevation: The steep elevation changes can be grueling, so incorporate hikes or workouts that simulate those conditions.
• Hydration and Nutrition: Carry enough water and electrolyte supplements. The desert heat can quickly dehydrate you, especially as you descend into the canyon.
• Pacing Yourself: Don't rush! Enjoy the beauty of the Grand Canyon. The hike is strenuous, but pacing yourself will help you make it through while still appreciating the scenery.

If you're ever looking for a meaningful, challenging, and rewarding adventure, the Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim hike is an experience like no other. For Scott, it's not just about the hike but about carrying on his father's legacy and celebrating their connection through their love of the outdoors.

Hiking the Grand Canyon will test your limits but leave you with memories and stories that will last a lifetime. And if you're lucky, like Scott, you might even create a family tradition that endures for generations.