Have you ever taken a drive around the North or South Rim of the Grand Canyon or stopped at a lookout point to admire the incredible views? If so, you probably felt a sense of awe at how huge and beautiful it is! The Grand Canyon in Arizona is one of the seven natural wonders of the world, and it’s truly amazing.
Now, imagine getting an up-close look at the Grand Canyon from a whole new angle! By hiking down into the canyon, you can explore the interesting plants and animals that survive in such tough conditions, while being surrounded by the towering canyon walls.
I’ve visited Grand Canyon National Park many times, but I never got the chance to hike all the way from the rim to the bottom—something I’ve always wanted to do! If you’re looking for something exciting to try, consider hiking down to the bottom along the Bright Angel Trail on the South Rim. This guide will give you helpful tips and important safety advice so you can have an unforgettable adventure while hiking the Grand Canyon!
Trail Overview
- Elevation Change: 5,000 feet
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Best Season to Hike: October – May
- Permits/Fees: Required for overnight camping or Rim-to-River hikes.
Bright Angel Trail Destinations
|
Destinations |
Distance (Round Trip) | Elevation Below The Rim | Difficulty |
|
Mile-and-a-Half Resthouse |
3 Miles | 1,1250 Feet | Moderate |
|
Three Mile Resthouse |
6 Miles | 2,120 Feet |
Difficult |
| Indian Garden | 9.2 Miles | 3,040 Feet |
Very Difficult |
| Plateau Point | 12.2 miles | 3,080 Feet |
Very Difficult |
Permits & Fees
The entry fee for Grand Canyon National Park is $35 per vehicle.
If you’re just hiking for the day, you don’t need a permit. However, if you plan to do any overnight hiking or camping below the rim, you’ll need to get a backcountry permit.
Getting to the Trailhead
The Bright Angel Trailhead is conveniently located on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon near the Bright Angel Lodge in Grand Canyon Village. Parking is available nearby, though spaces can fill up quickly during peak season. The Canyon shuttle service also provides access to the trailhead from various points around the park.
Trail Description
Bright Angel Trail is the most popular hiking trail in the Grand Canyon. It’s well-maintained and graded for mules, making the hike down pretty easy. But this can be tricky! The incredible views of the inner canyon and rock formations might make you forget how far down you’ve walked. Remember, the hike back up is much harder and takes twice as long.
While the South Kaibab Trail follows a ridge, Bright Angel Trail is tucked into a side canyon. The first few miles have a lot of shade, and the trail is cooler because it’s protected by the canyon walls. Most of the hike’s elevation change happens in the first four miles through steep switchbacks that seem never-ending. These switchbacks offer great views of the canyon cliffs, and you’ll also see plenty of plants and animals thanks to the shade and water sources along the trail. You might even see mules carrying supplies or passengers.
After 4.5 miles (7.2 km) and over 2,000 vertical feet (925 meters) down, you’ll reach Havasupai Gardens, a lush oasis that used to be home to the Havasupai people before the National Park was created. From here, you can hike to Plateau Point, a 3-mile (4.8-km) round trip, which is great for sunrise or sunset views. Just remember, the path is flat but very exposed to the sun!
For Camping
If you want to camp below the rim of the Grand Canyon, you’ll need a permit. You can apply for one online or request it in person at the Backcountry Information Center.
It’s important to only camp in designated campsites. Havasupai Gardens Campground has 15 small group sites and 1 large group site, but no stock animals (like horses or mules) are allowed. At Bright Angel Campground, which is on the north side of the Colorado River near Phantom Ranch, there are 30 small group sites and 2 large group sites, and stock animals are permitted here!
Before Hikes
Make a Plan
Before you start your hike, make sure you’ve done your research and know what to expect on the trail. Always tell someone your plan, so they can contact 911 if you’re overdue.
Check the Weather
In the summer, temperatures in the shade often go above 100°F (38°C). Try to avoid hiking between 10 am and 4 pm, the hottest part of the day.
From July to September, monsoon storms can cause dangerous lightning. If a storm hits, find shelter immediately.
In late fall, winter, and early spring, the temperature can drop below freezing, and the trail can get icy. It’s a good idea to wear traction devices over your shoes during these months. Ask a park ranger about current trail conditions.
Before starting your hike, check the signs at the trailhead for the latest information about weather, trail conditions, and closures.
Pack Properly
It’s important to pack enough fluids, snacks, and salty foods for your hike. On hot days, you’ll need to eat and drink more than usual, and hiking out of the canyon can take twice as long as hiking down. Wear a sun hat and keep your clothes cool and wet to help regulate your body temperature.
Energy Balance
Your body needs both food and water to keep your energy levels balanced. Eat and drink while resting, and sip water when you’re thirsty. If you drink too little water, you risk dehydration and heat stroke. But drinking too much water without enough salt can cause hyponatremia, which is dangerous. If you start to feel unwell, find shade, cool off, eat, and rest. Sometimes, it’s better to turn around.
FAQ
How long does it take to hike Bright Angel Trail Grand Canyon?
The time it takes to hike the Bright Angel Trail depends on how far you plan to go. For a roundtrip hike to Mile-and-a-Half Resthouse, it typically takes about 2-3 hours. To Indian Garden, plan for 4-6 hours, and for Plateau Point, expect around 7-9 hours. If you are hiking all the way to the Colorado River, it can take a full day or longer depending on your pace and rest stops.
What is the most famous hike in the Grand Canyon?
The Bright Angel Trail is arguably the most famous hike in the Grand Canyon, known for its accessibility from the South Rim and its breathtaking views of the canyon’s inner depths.
Can you hike the Grand Canyon without a guide?
Yes, you can hike the Grand Canyon without a guide. Many experienced hikers choose to explore the park on their own, especially well-marked trails like Bright Angel. However, guided hikes are available for those who prefer additional safety and local insights.
