Uploaded May 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
Rim to Rim to Rim, a double traverse of the Grand Canyon, is one of those unique challenges avid long distance runners dream of completing. Clocking in at 45 miles with 11,593' of elevation gain, often in 100 degree temps, the "R3" is a once-in-a-lifetime achievement for any run-of-the-mill ultra marathon runner.
For hikers, however, this is an insane idea.
After successfully completing the Super Icon Loop in the Superstition Mountains, a unique 35 mile, 10,000' aeg gauntlet through the best of the Western Superstition iconic hikes, I was convinced there wasn't a more difficult day hike challenge (EXCEPT possibly R3).
This was definitely the most gut wrenching day-hike I have ever completed. I have zero interest in going through this again, and consider myself lucky to have finished on my own two feet - not in a rescue helicopter.
Make no mistake about it, R3 is for elite long distance athletes. By far, without question, one of the most challenging tests of physical fitness and mental fortitude Arizona has to offer.
I loved it.
Its been two days and I still can't walk. When I can, I'll strap on that 45lb pack and keep on keeping on. There are challenges out there I gotta do. Don't wanna, I gotta. Time is short.
NOTE: I drink calories as often as possible. This trip included 4 Liters of “Go Juice” a mixture of Strawberry Perpetuem, unflavored Whey Protein and a packet of strawberry flavored liquid I.V. in a Liter of water. This is around 400 calories and electrolytes.
3 scoops of Perpetuem
1 scoop whey protein
1 packet liquid I.V.
Perpetuem and unflavored Whey Protein are from Hammer Nutrition. Get 15% off your first order by clicking here: hammernutrition.com/MOONJUICE
Music:
@EiroNareth
Kenny Loggins
Danger Zone (from “Top Gun”) played on one guitar
Rim to Rim to Rim, a double traverse of the Grand Canyon, is one of those unique challenges avid long distance runners dream of completing. Clocking in at 45 miles with 11,593' of elevation gain, often in 100 degree temps, the "R3" is a once-in-a-lifetime achievement for any run-of-the-mill ultra marathon runner.
For hikers, however, this is an insane idea.
After successfully completing the Super Icon Loop in the Superstition Mountains, a unique 35 mile, 10,000' aeg gauntlet through the best of the Western Superstition iconic hikes, I was convinced there wasn't a more difficult day hike challenge (EXCEPT possibly R3).
This was definitely the most gut wrenching day-hike I have ever completed. I have zero interest in going through this again, and consider myself lucky to have finished on my own two feet - not in a rescue helicopter.
Make no mistake about it, R3 is for elite long distance athletes. By far, without question, one of the most challenging tests of physical fitness and mental fortitude Arizona has to offer.
I loved it.
Its been two days and I still can't walk. When I can, I'll strap on that 45lb pack and keep on keeping on. There are challenges out there I gotta do. Don't wanna, I gotta. Time is short.
NOTE: I drink calories as often as possible. This trip included 4 Liters of “Go Juice” a mixture of Strawberry Perpetuem, unflavored Whey Protein and a packet of strawberry flavored liquid I.V. in a Liter of water. This is around 400 calories and electrolytes.
3 scoops of Perpetuem
1 scoop whey protein
1 packet liquid I.V.
Perpetuem and unflavored Whey Protein are from Hammer Nutrition. Get 15% off your first order by clicking here: hammernutrition.com/MOONJUICE
Music:
@EiroNareth
Kenny Loggins
Danger Zone (from “Top Gun”) played on one guitar
