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Hiking Guide
Hiking in Grand Canyon National Park can be a fun and rewarding experience as in other national parks. It is a great way to both see and experience the park.
In 2000 Grand Canyon National Park received 30,000 requests for backcountry permits. The park issued 13,000 permits, and close to 40,000 people camped overnight in the backcountry at Grand Canyon. The majority of these people are here for the first time, and although many are avid hikers, they find that hiking the Grand Canyon is very different from most other backpacking experiences. They tend to react to the experience in one of two ways: either they can't wait to get back, or they swear they'll never do it again.
Depending upon how prepared you are and what the canyon serves up at any particular time, your trip can be a vacation or a challenge, a revelation or an ordeal.
You will be hiking in a desert climate, where water and protection from the elements make the difference between life and death. Your trip begins at a high elevation (7,000 - 8,000 feet), and requires a bone jarring descent at the beginning of your trip, when your pack is heaviest. You'll face the long climb out when you are already tired.
Grand Canyon National Park encompasses more than 1.2 million acres, the vast majority of which are inaccessible due to the predominance of cliffs and inhospitable to all but plants and animals able to survive in the desert. The Colorado River bisects the canyon; hikers can cross the river only at Phantom Ranch. If you choose to hike from rim to river to rim, you will have to deal with an elevation differential of more than 10,000 feet from start to finish.
Most visitors begin and end their hikes from the South Rim.
| Night | Trip A | Trip B | Trip C |
| Night 1 | Bright Angel Camp | Bright Angel Camp | Indian Garden Camp |
| Night 2 | Indian Garden Camp | Bright Angel Camp | Indian Garden Camp |
| Night 3 | Hike Out | Hike Out | Hike Out |
Roads leading to the North Rim are closed during winter months due to heavy snowfall. Depending upon weather conditions, these roads are usually open from mid May to the end of October. The hiking distance from the North Rim to the bottom of the canyon is twice as far as from the South Rim to the bottom. Three nights are the minimum recommended for a round trip from the North Rim.
| Night | Trip A | Trip B | Trip C |
| Night 1 | Cottonwood Camp | Cottonwood Camp | Cottonwood Camp |
| Night 2 | Bright Angel Camp | Bright Angel Camp | Cottonwood Camp |
| Night 3 | Bright Angel Camp | Cottonwood Camp | Hike Out |
| Night 4 | Cottonwood Camp | Hike Out | |
| Night 5 | Hike Out |
Since most people live at elevations near sea level, they find that hiking in high elevations greatly contributes to their fatigue. Canyon topography requires that most hikes begin and end at elevations of 7,000 ft / 2,100 m (South Rim) to 8,500 ft / 2,600 m (North Rim).
The hiking distance from the North Rim to the bottom of the canyon is twice as far as from the South Rim to the bottom. Three nights are the minimum recommended for a round trip from the North Rim.
The inner canyon is accessed via the so called "Corridor Trails": The Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail from the South Rim, and the North Kaibab Trail from the North Rim.
There are other less heavily traveled and more remote inner canyon trails, as well. All overnight travel below the rim requires a Backcountry Permit. The Rim Trail on the South Rim offers vistas along the South Rim; a variety of rim trails are also available through the more heavily forested regions on the North Rim. All main park roads are paved. A large network of gravel roads exists in the Kaibab National Forest outside the park (on both rims).
| Trail | Begins | Length mi / km | Elev Chg ft / m |
Description |
| South Kaibab | South Rim near Yaki Point | 6.0 / 9.7 | 4620 / 1408 | Descends to the Colorado River Because of the unavailability of water and steepness of this trail, rangers recommend hiking down this trail. Use the Bright Angel trail for the hike out the next day. |
| River | Between the Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails | 1.7 / 2.4 | 0 / 0 | Follows the Colorado River between the Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails. Two foot bridges permit access to the north side of the Colorado River. |
| Bright Angel | South Rim just west of Kolb Studio | 7.7 / 12.4 | 4420 / 1347 | Descends to the Colorado River. |
| Tonto | Tonto Platform | V |
3000 / 914V | This trail crosses the Tonto Platform, below the South Rim, intersecting both the Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails. |
| North Kaibab | North Rim at the head of Roaring Springs Canyon | 14.5 / 23.3 | 5841 / 1780 | Descends to the Colorado River |
|---|
| Distance via Bright Angel Trailhead (6860 ft/2091 m) to: |
Distance from Rim mi / km |
Elevation ft / m |
Water | Toilet Facilities | Emerg Phone | Ranger Station | Campground |
| 1.5 mile Resthouse | 1.5 / 2.4 | 5720 / 1743 | Yes: May - Sep | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| 3.0 mile Resthouse | 3.0 / 4.8 | 4720 / 1439 | Yes: May - Sep | No | Yes | No | No |
| Indian Garden | 4.6 / 7.4 | 3800 / 1158 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes - Tables |
| Plateau Point | 6.1 / 9.8 | 3781 / 1152 | No | No | No | No | No |
| River Trail Junction | 7.7 / 12.4 | 2440 / 744 | No | No | Yes | No | No |
| Bright Angel Camp | 9.3 / 14.9 | 2400 / 732 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes - Tables |
| Phantom Ranch | 9.8 / 15.7 | 2560 / 780 | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No* |
| South Kaibab Trailhead (7260 / 2213) to: | Distance from Rim mi / km |
Elevation ft / m |
Water | Toilet Facilities | Emerg Phone | Ranger Station | Campground |
| Cedar Ridge | 1.5 / 2.4 | 5760 / 1756 | No | Yes | No | No | No |
| Tonto Trail Junction | 4.4 / 7.1 | 4000 / 1219 | No | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| River Trail Junction | 6.0 / 9.7 | 2640 / 805 | No | No | No | No | No |
| Bright Angel Camp | 6.4 / 10.3 | 2400 / 732 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes - Tables |
| Phantom Ranch | 6.9 / 11.1 | 2560 / 780 | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No* |
| North Kaibab Trailhead (8241/2512) to: | Distance from Rim mi / km |
Elevation ft / m |
Water | Toilet Facilities | Emerg Phone | Ranger Station | Campground |
| Supai Tunnel | 2.0 / 3.2 | 6800 / 2073 | No - seasonal | Yes | No | No | No |
| Roaring Springs | 4.7 / 7.6 | 5200 / 1585 | Yes: May - Sep | No | No | No | No |
| Cottonwood Camp | 6.9 / 11.1 | 4000 / 1219 | Yes: May - Sep | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes - Tables |
| Ribbon Falls | 8.4 / 13.5 | 3720 / 1134 | No | No | No | No | No** |
| Phantom Ranch | 14.0 / 22.5 | 2560 / 780 | Yes | Yes | Yes | No</td> | No* |
| Bright Angel Camp | 14.5 / 23.3 | 2400 / 732 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes - Tables |
| River Trail Junction | 14.6 / 23.5 | 2440 / 744 | No | No | No | No | No |
*All hikes to Phantom Ranch require reservations for food and lodging and there is a pay phone available.
**Ribbon Falls - the waterfalls are day use only.
Day Hiking
Day hiking is an acceptable and worthwhile alternative if you are unable to obtain an overnight permit. Day hiking can be a safer and more enjoyable choice than an overnight trip into a difficult area that is beyond the capabilities of any single member of your group. Be sure to prepare for your day hike as carefully as you would an overnight trip and do not attempt excessive mileages. Permits are not required for day hikes.
The following ranger recommendations are founded in a concern for hiker safety and a desire that visitors enjoy their backpacking trip. There are an average of 400 search and rescue incidents in the Grand Canyon backcountry every year, the majority involving people on their first hike in the canyon. Remember, there are no easy trails into the Grand Canyon.
When planning your trip, remember that the most enjoyable and safest seasons for hiking are spring and fall. It is desirable to schedule at least two nights in the canyon. This allows a rest and recovery day before the hike out and/or reduces the distance to be covered each day. Hikers should consider elevation gain and loss, not just mileage, when researching possible itineraries.
Sixteen trails and numerous obscure routes provide access to the inner canyon. Access to the bottom (2400 feet above sea level) is possible from both the South Rim (7000 feet above sea level) and the North Rim (8200 feet above sea level). None of these trails are easy.
Only the South Kaibab, Bright Angel, and North Kaibab Trails are maintained and patrolled by trail crews on a regular basis. These three trails meet at the bottom near the only bridges that span the Colorado River, creating a popular cross canyon "corridor". These wider corridor trails offer expansive views, reliable water sources, great camping, and the opportunity for hiking in and out on different trails. Backcountry Rangers highly recommend this area, especially for a first Grand Canyon adventure.
Hiking the canyon is not like other types of hikes. You will be doing the easy part first and can go though 4 different life zones. Even the most experienced hiker has problems in the canyon. Thinking that this is just another walk, will get you into trouble and make for an unpleasant trip. Be prepared with the proper equipment, clothing and conditioning. The canyon can be a wonderful experience with some planning.
As the weather gets warmer, the National Park Service starts doing heat related rescues. Most of these could be prevented by planning hikes based on temperature as well as distance.
The following chart is intended to help in determining what the conditions hiking on the trails are. The idea is to hike to the conditions not by distance or destination. The major cause of medical problems on the trail is not observing the trail conditions below the rim. On the rim it is nice and pleasant, but below the rim it becomes a totally different environment that continually changes along the trail.
| Trail Hiking Status Condition Chart | ||||||||||
|
Destination |
South Rim High Temperature (Fahrenheit) | |||||||||
| 50 | 55 | 60 | 65 | 70 | 75 | 80 | 85 | 90 | ||
| 1.5 Mile Rest house Cedar Ridge |
Grandview (Stop Sign) Redwall Bridge |
|||||||||
| 3.0 Mile Rest house Skeleton Point |
Hermits (both day hikes) Grandview (Horseshoe Mesa) Roaring Springs |
|||||||||
| Indian Garden Plateau Point |
Tonto Trail Cottonwood Ribbon Falls |
|||||||||
| Devils Corkscrew Colorado River |
Phantom Ranch Clear Creek |
|||||||||
|
Reading the Chart |
Safe to Hike | Caution Eat & Drink |
High Risk Seek Shade |
DANGER Health Hazard |
The following Temperatures are intended to give a general high for each month and DOES NOT represent the current year.
| Approximate South Rim High Temperatures | ||||||||
| Month | � F | � C | Month | � F | � C | Month | � F | � C |
| Jan | 41 | 05 | May | 70 | 21 | Sep | 76 | 24 |
| Feb | 45 | 07 | Jun | 81 | 27 | Oct | 65 | 18 |
| Mar | 51 | 20 | Jul | 84 | 29 | Nov | 52 | 11 |
| Apr | 60 | 15 | Aug | 82 | 28 | Dec | 43 | 06 |
List of Day Hikes
| South Rim Day Hikes | North Rim Day Hikes | Corridor Trails Day Hikes |
Do Not attempt to Hike from the rim to the river and back in one day.
Day hikers may wish to hike a portion of either the Bright Angel Trail (which begins near Bright Angel Lodge in the village) or the South Kaibab Trail (which begins at Yaki Point, 3 mi / 5 km east of the village). Check with the Backcountry Information Center for trail conditions upon your arrival. Trails may be icy in winter; instep crampons are sometimes useful.
Double your calories and double your fun! Salty snacks and water or sports drinks should be consumed on any hike lasting longer than 30 minutes. Food is your body's primary source of fuel and salts (electrolytes) while hiking in the canyon. If you do not balance your food intake with your fluid consumption, you run the risk of getting sick. With exertion, you lose salt and may develop a serious illness. For every hour hiking in the canyon, you should drink .5 to 1 liter of water or sports drinks. Your best defense against illness and exhaustion is to eat a large breakfast, a full lunch, a snack every time you take a drink, and a rewarding full dinner at the end of the day. This is not a time to diet.
Don't hike alone! Know what you're destination will be. Don't overestimate your capabilities: day hikers account for the majority of the park's search and rescue efforts.
Hike intelligently. You are responsible for your own safety as well as that of everyone in your party.
Overnight hikers may arrange to stay and eat at Phantom Ranch. Reservations for meals and lodging at Phantom Ranch are required. Call: 303-297-2757 or Fax: 303-297-3175, or write:
Amfac
14001 E. Iliff, Ste. 600
Aurora, CO 80014
All other overnight visitors to the inner canyon must obtain a backcountry permit.
When inner canyon temperatures are extremely high, access to inner canyon trails may be restricted to early morning and evening. Information on trail restrictions and trail closures is available at: 928-638-7888 (ext 131).
South Rim Day Hikes
South Rim Map (160 K)
| Bright Angel | South Kaibab | Hermit | Grandview | Rim - Hermits | Rim - Village | Tonto |
Bright Angel Trail
The Bright Angel trail starts near the Bright Angel Lodge and offers day hikes that range in distance up to 12 miles (round trip).
The Bright Angel trail offers wonderful views all along the trail and makes it very easy to loose track of how far down you have hiked. Be aware of how far you have hiked, the steepness of the trail is very misleading on the way down.
Even though the Bright Angel has water along the trail, you need to carry water. A common mistake is not carrying water and not carrying enough water. When hiking in a group, each person should be carrying water; carrying for the group is a common mistake. Always remember to eat as well as drink while hiking, you will be using a lot of energy when hiking the canyon.
YIELD to Mules and Hikers going Up Hill.
Bright Angel Trail Map (125 K)
Trail Condition: Steep. Well defined. Some shade on trail, mostly from canyon walls and time of day
Directions to Trailhead: Between Bright Angel Lodge and West Rim interchange bus stop. Follow path along rim, starts by mule pin. No parking at trailhead.
Trailhead Elevation: 6785 feet
Services: Ranger Station at Indian Garden. Assistance through Mule trains and randomly patrolled by Rangers
Note:Seasonal trail water (May - Sep), subject to pipeline breaks.Check at Visitor Center for status
| Destination | Distance (in Miles) | Elevation Feet (Destination) |
W = Water; T = Toilet / Restroom; E = Emergency Phone | ||||
| To Destination | Round Trip |
Services | Notes | ||||
| W | T | E | |||||
| 1st Tunnel | 0.18 | 0.36 | 6708 | Not too steep, good for view in the canyon. | |||
| 1st Switchback | 0.45 | 0.9 | 6560 | Good turn around point for small children. Will start getting steeper trail. | |||
| 2nd Tunnel | 0.75 | 1.5 | 6240 | Steep switchbacks after tunnel. | |||
| 1.5 Mile Resthouse | 1.5 | 3 | 5720 | X | X | X | Good turn around for first time canyon hikes, causal hikes and late starters. |
| 2 Mile Switchback/Corner | 2 | 4 | 5490 | Trail sign marks location, trail will get steeper from here. | |||
| 3 Mile Resthouse | 3 | 6 | 4760 | X | X | Great turn around point. | |
| Indian Gardens | 4.6 | 9.2 | 3800 | X | X | X | Need to get an early morning start and be in good condition. |
| Plateau Point | 6.1 | 12.2 | 3770 | Views of the river. Trail not steep, NO shade. Its the distance that this adds that makes it tough. | |||
|
|||||||
| Colorado River | 7.9 | 15.8 | 2400 | Hiking to the river or Phantom Ranch as a day hike is not recommended! The distance, temperature and elevation change cause even the most experienced hikers to have difficulty. This could result in the hiker needing medical help and can result in death. | |||
| Phantom Ranch | 9.6 | 19.2 | 2546 | ||||
South Kaibab
The South Kaibab Trail is on the way to Yaki Point. Access to the trailhead is by shuttle bus. Offers day hikes that range in distance up to 12 miles (round trip).
The South Kaibab trail offers wonderful views all along the trail and makes it very easy to loose track of how far down you have hiked. Be aware of how far you have hiked, the steepness of the trail is very misleading on the way down. Cedar Ridge has great views and is an ideal day hike.
Everyone needs to carry water! A common mistake is not carrying water and not carrying enough water. When hiking in a group, each person should be carrying water; carrying for the group is a common mistake. Always remember to eat as well as drink while hiking, you will be using a lot of energy when hiking the canyon.
YIELD to Mules and Hikers going Up Hill.
South Kaibab Trail Map (162 K)
Trail Condition: Steep. Well defined. Little shade on trail, mostly from canyon walls and time of day.
Directions to Trailhead: By shuttle bus, NO vehicles allowed.
Trailhead Elevation: 7200 feet
Services: Assistance through Mule trains and randomly patrolled by Rangers.
Note: NO water along trail.
| Destination | Distance (in Miles) | Elevation Feet (Destination) |
W = Water; T = Toilet/Restroom; E = Emergency Phone | ||||
| To Destination | Round Trip |
Services | Notes | ||||
| W | T | E | |||||
| Ooh-Aah Point | .75 | 1.5 | 6320 | Offers a spectacular view. Great day hike. No sign, point of where trail opens to a WIDE view. | |||
| Cedar Ridge | 1.5 | 3 | 6060 | X | Good turn around for first time canyon hikes, causal hikes and late starters. | ||
| O'Neal Butte | 2 | 4 | 5720 | Great turn around point. | |||
| Skeleton Point (hitch rail) | 3 | 6 | 5200 | No sign, hitch rail is located after flat stretch on top of ridge. Steeper switchbacks after hitch rail, it is not recommended to go past this point as a day hike. | |||
| Tonto Trail Junction | 4.4 | 8.8 | 4010 | X | Not recommended for day hikers. The steep trail conditions and lack of shade can make this a very difficult and dangerous hike. | ||
| Tipoff | 4.6 | 9.2 | 3870 | X | |||
| Panorama Point | 5 | 10 | 3620 | ||||
|
|||||||
| Colorado River Bridge | 6.3 | 12.6 | 2400 | Hiking to the river or Phantom Ranch as a day hike is not recommended! The distance, temperature and elevation change cause even the most experienced hikers to have difficulty. This could result in the hiker needing medical help and can result in death. | |||
| Phantom Ranch | 7.1 | 14.2 | 2546 | ||||
Hermit Trail
The Hermit trail offers hikes to Santa Maria Springs (4.5 miles round trip) and Dripping Spring (6.5 miles round trip). Trail conditions are tougher than the Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails. Hiking shoes a must. Only recommended for experienced hikers.
Everyone needs to carry water! A common mistake is not carrying water and not carrying enough water. When hiking in a group, each person should be carrying water; carrying for the group is a common mistake. Always remember to eat as well as drink while hiking, you will be using a lot of energy when hiking the canyon.
YIELD to Hikers going Up Hill
Hermit Trail (164 K)
Trail Condition: Steep, rocky and Strenuous. Unmaintained trail. Some shade on trail, varies on time of day.
Directions to Trailhead: By shuttle bus, NO vehicles allowed.
Trailhead Elevation: 6640 feet
Services: NO Assistance on Trail.
Note: NO treated water along trail. ALL water MUST be treated! Stop at "STOP" sign!
| Destination | Distance (in Miles) | Elevation Feet (Destination) |
W = Water; T = Toilet/Restroom; E = Emergency Phone | ||||
| To Destination | Round Trip |
Services | Notes | ||||
| W | T | E | |||||
| Waldron Trail Junction | 1.5 | 3 | 5400 | Junction Sign (Right at Jct.) | |||
| Hermit Trail Junction | 1.75 | 3.5 | 5200 | Junction Sign (Hermit / Dripping Spring) | |||
SANTA MARIA SPRINGS ROUTE (Right at Hermit Trail Junction Sign) |
|||||||
| Santa Maria Springs | 2.25 | 4.5 | 4880 | X | MUST treat water! Rest Shelter. |
||
DRIPPING SPRING ROUTE(Left at Hermit Trail Junction Sign) |
|||||||
| Boucher Trail Junction | 2.75 | 5.5 | 5270 | Junction Sign (Left at Jct.) | |||
| Dripping Spring | 3.25 | 6.5 | 5680 | X | MUST treat water! | ||
Grandview Trail
The Grandview trail offers hikes to Coconino saddle (STOP sign), 2 miles (round trip) and Horseshoe Mesa, 6.4 miles (round trip). Steep trail that gets steeper beyond stop sign. Trail conditions are a lot tougher than the Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails. Hiking shoes a must. Only recommended for experienced hikers.
Everyone needs to carry water! A common mistake is not carrying water and not carrying enough water. When hiking in a group, each person should be carrying water; carrying for the group is a common mistake. Always remember to eat as well as drink while hiking, you will be using a lot of energy when hiking the canyon.
YIELD to Hikers going Up Hill.
Grandview Trail (197 K)
Trail Condition: Very steep, rocky and Strenuous. Unmaintained trail. Some shade on trail, varies on time of day.
Directions to Trailhead: By vehicle from Grandview Point. About 10 miles from village, along East Rim Drive.
Trailhead Elevation: 7400 feet
Services: NO Assistance on Trail.
Note: NO treated water along trail. ALL water MUST be treated! Stop at "STOP" sign!
| Destination | Distance (in Miles) | Elevation Feet (Destination) |
W = Water; T = Toilet/Restroom; E = Emergency Phone | ||||
| To Destination | Round Trip |
Services | Notes | ||||
| W | T | E | |||||
| Coconino Saddle (Stop Sign) |
1 | 2 | 6235 | Recommended day hike point. Trail gets steeper and more rocky beyond here. | |||
| Miners (Page) Spring Jct. | 3 | 6 | 4800 | X | Junction Sign. Water at Spring. MUST treat water! |
||
| Cottonwood Creek Jct. | 3.1 | 6.2 | Junction Sign. | ||||
| Mesa / Toilet Jct. | 3.2 | 6.4 | X | Stone Cabin & Junction Sign | |||
| Use extreme caution hiking on the Mesa during summer, little trail shade. | |||||||
Rim Trail - Hermits
(Village to Hermits Rest) - The Hermits Rim Trail extends from the Village area to Hermits Rest. Can access the trail at overlook points between the West Rim Interchange and Hermits Rest. By using the shuttle busses, can customize your hike to meet your needs. Offers day hikes that range in distance up to 16.2 miles (round trip) with little elevation change.
Hiking the Rim trails are ideal day hikes. They offer a variety of different views along trails that offer good hiking with little elevation change.
Everyone needs to carry water! Even though you will be hiking on the rim, you still need to carry water. Always remember to eat as well as drink while hiking, you will be using a lot of energy when hiking the canyon.
Rim Trail (Grand Village to Hermits Rest) (162 K)
Trail Condition: Inclines to flat. Well defined. Shade along trail.
Directions to Trailhead: Starts at the West Rim Interchange. Can access from any of the outlook stops along Hermit Road.
Trailhead Elevation: 6,820 feet, varies approximately 200 feet.
Services:NO Assistance on Trail between shuttle bus stops.
Note: NO water along trail. Water at Grand Canyon Village area and at Hermits Rest.
| Destination | Distance (in Miles) | W = Water; T = Toilet/Restroom; E = Emergency Phone | |||||
| To Next Point | Total From Trailhead | Round Trip From Trailhead | Services | Notes | |||
| W | T | E | |||||
| Trail Overlook | 0.7 | 0.5 | 1.0 | Good views of the Bright Angel trail. | |||
| Maricopa Point | 0.5 | 1.2 | 2.4 | Trail becomes unmarked dirt path from here. | |||
| Powell Point | 0.3 | 1.7 | 3.4 | ||||
| *Hopi Point | 0.8 | 2.0 | 4.0 | X | Great for viewing Sunset | ||
| *Mohave Point | 1.1 | 2.8 | 5.6 | ||||
| The Abyss | 2.9 | 3.9 | 7.8 | ||||
| Pima Point | 1.1 | 6.8 | 13.6 | ||||
| Hermits Rest | 7.9 | 15.8 | X | X | X | Small gift shop and snack bar. | |
| * Note: The shuttle buses only stop at these 2 points on the return to the Village. | |||||||
Rim Trail - Village:(Village to Yavapai Point)
The Village Rim Trail extends from the Village area to Yavapai Point. Can access the trail at many points between the West Rim Interchange and Yavapai Point. Offers day hikes that range in distance up to 3.8 miles (round trip) with little elevation change.
Hiking the RIM trails are ideal day hikes. They offer a variety of different views along trails that offer good hiking with little elevation change.
Everyone needs to carry water! Even though you will be hiking on the rim, you still need to carry water. Always remember to eat as well as drink while hiking, you will be using a lot of energy when hiking the canyon.
Rim Trail (Grand Village to Hermits Rest) (162 K)
Trail Condition: Paved. Inclines to flat. Well defined. Shade along trail.
Directions to Trailhead: Starts at the West Rim Interchange. Can access from many point along trail.
Trailhead Elevation: 6,820 feet, varies approximately 200 feet.
Services: NO Assistance on Trail between village and Yavapai point.
Note: NO water along trail. Water at Grand Canyon Village area.
| Destination | Distance (in Miles) | W = Water; T = Toilet/Restroom; E = Emergency Phone | |||||
| To Next Point | Total From Trailhead | Round Trip From Trailhead | Services | Notes | |||
| W | T | E | |||||
| Park Headquarters Junction | .75 | .75 | 1.5 | ||||
| Yavapai Point | 1.5 | 3 | X | Glass observation area with canyon information. | |||
Tonto Trail: (South Kaibab to Bright Angel)
The Tonto loop from South Kaibab trailhead to Bright Angel trailhead is a very strenuous hike and should not be attempted unless in very good hiking condition. This is a good long distance (13.8 miles) day hike for those in proper condition. It is however a very demanding hike because of the lack of shade from the South Kaibab trailhead to Indian Gardens. Expect little shade on the South Kaibab portion and no shade on the Tonto. Due to the extreme conditions, this hike should NOT be attempted once the temperatures reach 100� F. Even the most fit of people have experienced medical problems (even death) during these conditions!
WARNING: Not recommended during the Summer or when temperatures reach 100� F! This should NOT be attempted unless you are in very good hiking condition!
Everyone needs to carry water! A common mistake is not carrying water and not carrying enough water. When hiking in a group, each person should be carrying water; carrying for the group is a common mistake. Always remember to eat as well as drink while hiking, you will be using a lot of energy when hiking the canyon.
YIELD to Mules and Hikers going Up Hill.
Tonto (South Kaibab to Bright Angel Loop) Trail (179 K)
Trail Condition: Steep. Well defined. Little shade on trail, mostly from canyon walls and time of day.
Directions to Trailhead: By shuttle bus, NO vehicles allowed.
Trailhead Elevation: 7200 feet (South Kaibab)
Services: NO Assistance on Tonto Trail. Assistance through Mule trains and random patrols (South Kaibab and Bright Angel trails ONLY).
Note: NO water along trail. NO Water for the first 9 miles!
| WARNING: Do Not attempt hike when temperatures exceed 100� F (summer months)! | |||||||
| Destination | Distance (in Miles) | Elevation Feet (Destination) |
W = Water; T = Toilet/Restroom; E = Emergency Phone | ||||
| To Next Destination | Total Distance |
Services | Notes | ||||
| W | T | E | |||||
| Ooh-Aah Point | .75 | .75 | 6320 | Offers a spectacular view. Great day hike. No sign, point of where trail opens to a WIDE view. | |||
| Cedar Ridge | .75 | 1.5 | 6060 | X | Good turn around for first time canyon hikes, causal hikes and late starters. | ||
| O'Neal Butte | 1.5 | 2 | 5720 | Great turn around point. | |||
| Skeleton Point (hitch rail) | 1.5 | 3 | 5200 | No sign, hitch rail is located after flat stretch on top of ridge. Steeper switchbacks after hitch rail, it is not recommended to continue if having ANY problems. | |||
| Tonto Trail Junction (South Kaibab) |
1.4 | 4.4 | 4010 | X | Left at Junction (Emergency Phone at Tipoff -- go straight) | ||
| Tipoff | .2 | 3870 | X | Detour for Emergency phone only. | |||
| WARNING: Tonto has little/NO hiker and NO mule traffic! DO NOT count on any assistance! | |||||||
| Tonto Trail Junction (Bright Angel) |
4.5 | 8.9 | 3770 | Left at Junction for Indian Gardens | |||
| Indian Gardens |
.3 | 9.2 | 3800 | X | X | X | Rest and Cool down here. Eat & Drink! |
| 3 mile rest house | 1.6 | 10.8 | 4760 | X | X | ||
| 1.5 mile rest house | 1.5 | 12.3 | 5720 | X | X | X | |
| Bright Angel Trailhead | 1.5 | 13.8 | 6785 | X | X | X | |
| North Kaibab Trail | North Rim Lodge Trails | Uncle Jim Trail | Ken Patrick Trail | Widforss Trail |
North Kaibab Trail
The North Kaibab trail offers a wonderful hike through the trees with views along the trail and makes it very easy to loose track of how far down you have hiked. Be aware of how far you have hiked, the steepness of the trail is very misleading on the way down. The Supai Tunnel has a great view of the canyon and is an ideal day hike.
Everyone needs to carry water! A common mistake is not carrying water and not carrying enough water. When hiking in a group, each person should be carrying water; carrying for the group is a common mistake.; Always remember to eat as well as drink while hiking, you will be using a lot of energy when hiking the canyon.
YIELD to Mules and Hikers going Up Hill.
North Kaibab (Roaring Springs) Trail (319 K)
Trail Condition: Steep. Well defined. Little shade on trail below tunnel, mostly from canyon walls and time of day.
Directions to Trailhead: About 1.5 miles from the lodge, either hike or drive (parking at trailhead).
Trailhead Elevation: 8255 feet
Services: Assistance through Mule trains and randomly patrolled by Rangers.
Note: Water along trail is seasonal and not always available
| Destination | Distance (in Miles) | Elevation Feet (Destination) |
W = Water; T = Toilet/Restroom; E = Emergency Phone | ||||
| To Destination | Round Trip |
Services | Notes | ||||
| W | T | E | |||||
| Supai Tunnel | 1.8 | 3.6 | 6840 | X | X | Offers a spectacular view. Great day hike. Good turn around for first time canyon hikes, causal hikes and late starters. | |
| Redwall Bridge | 3.0 | 6.0 | 6062 | No shade late morning and afternoon. | |||
| Roaring Springs Junction | 4.7 | 9.4 | 5300 | Junction is harder to spot going down. | |||
| Roaring Springs | 5 | 10 | 5200 | X | X | It is not recommended to go past this point as a day hike. | |
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| Cottonwood | 6.9 | 13.8 | 4065 | Hiking to the river, Phantom Ranch or Cottonwood as a day hike is not recommended! The distance, temperature and elevation change cause even the most experienced hikers to have difficulty. This could result in the hiker needing medical help and can result in death. | |||
| Phantom Ranch | 13.8 | 27.6 | 2546 | ||||
| Colorado River Bridge | 14.6 | 29.2 | 2400 | ||||
North Rim Lodge Area Trails
Bright Angel Point Trail and Transept Trail. Easy hikes for all on the rim, with distances from 1 to 3 miles. The Bright Angel Point Trail offers a short half mile (1 mile round trip) hike with a great view of the canyon. The Transept Trail offers a 1.5 mile (3 miles round trip) hike, the view is mostly of the side canyon. It is always a good idea that everyone carry water! Even though you will be hiking on the rim, you still need water.
Hiking the RIM trails are ideal day hikes. They offer a variety of different views along trails that offer good hiking with little elevation change. There are two short trails in the lodge area that make ideal day hikes for everyone.
North Rim Map (135 K)
Trail Condition: Inclines to flat. Well defined. Shade along trail.
Directions to Trailhead: Both start from the North Rim Lodge area.
Trailhead Elevation: 8,255 feet, little elevation change.
Services: NO Assistance on Trail.
Note: NO water along trail. Water at Lodge and campground.
| Destination | Distance (in Miles) | W = Water; T = Toilet/Restroom; E = Emergency Phone | |||||
| To Next Point | Total From Trailhead | Round Trip From Trailhead | Services | Notes | |||
| W | T | E | |||||
| Bright Angel Point Trailhead | 0.5 | The trailhead starts from the parking lot, starting from the lodge shortens the hike. | |||||
| Bright Angel Point | 0.5 | 1.0 | Excellent overlook. | ||||
| Transept Trailhead | 1.5 | Starts below lodge patio area. | |||||
| Campground | 1.5 | 3.0 | X | X | |||
| Note: There is an overlook just a bit from the Transept Trailhead, very short distance. | |||||||
Uncle Jim Trail
Short rim hike starting at the N. Kaibab trailhead parking area. The 4 mile (round trip) hike is a loop hike after the first mile. Start hike from the Ken Patrick trailhead. Along the Ken Patrick trail, will come upon the Uncle Jim Trailhead. The trail is a loop trail that goes along Roaring Springs and Bright Angel Canyons. Trail will overlook the upper sections of the North Kaibab trail. It is always a good idea that everyone carry water! Even though you will be hiking on the rim, you still need water and food.
Uncle Jim & Ken Patrick Trails (115 K)
Trail Condition: Inclines to flat. Well defined. Shade along trail.
Directions to Trailhead: About 2 miles from the Lodge or 1.5 miles by hiking trail. Parking lot at N. Kaibab trailhead.
Trailhead Elevation: 8,250 feet, little elevation change.
Services: NO Assistance on Trail.
Note: NO water along trail.
| Destination | Distance (in Miles) | W = Water; T = Toilet/Restroom; E = Emergency Phone | |||||
| To Next Point | Total From Trailhead | Round Trip From Trailhead | Services | Notes | |||
| W | T | E | |||||
| Ken Patrick Trailhead | 0.5 | East side of parking area. | |||||
| Uncle Jim Trailhead | 0.4 | 0.5 | 1.0 | Trail to Right. | |||
| Loop Jct (Left Trail) (Right Trail) |
1.3 0.9 |
0.9 | 1.8 | Because the loop junction to the overlook is not equal distances, can vary the total distance by taking the same trail both ways (3.6 or 4.4 miles round trip). | |||
| Overlook (Left Trail) (Right Trail) |
2.2 1.8 |
4.0 | |||||
Ken Patrick Trail
Starts at the N. Kaibab trailhead parking area and ends at Point Imperial. The 20 mile (round trip) hike has steep sections. Trail may be hard to follow, not well maintained. Hike though forest and long rim to Point Imperial. Trail past Old Bright Angel trailhead may become more difficult to follow. Because of the distance everyone needs to carry water! You need to eat and drink while hiking!
Uncle Jim & Ken Patrick Trails (115 K)
Trail Condition: Inclines, with some steep sections. Some parts obscure. Shade along trail.
Directions to Trailhead: About 2 miles from the Lodge or 1.5 miles by hiking trail. Parking lot at N. Kaibab trailhead.
Trailhead Elevation: 8,250 feet, elevation increases 553 feet (8,803 feet).
Services: NO Assistance on Trail.
Note: NO water along trail.
| Destination | Distance (in Miles) | W = Water; T = Toilet/Restroom; E = Emergency Phone | |||||
| To Next Point | Total From Trailhead | Round Trip From Trailhead | Services | Notes | |||
| W | T | E | |||||
| Ken Patrick Trailhead | 0.5 | East side of parking area. | |||||
| Uncle Jim Trailhead | 9.5 | 0.5 | 1.0 | Trail to Left. | |||
| Point Imperial | 10 | 20 | |||||
Widforss Trail
The 9.8 mile (round trip) hike gives a bit more elevation change for a rim hike giving a little more of a hike without over doing it. Widforss trail is named after Gunnar M. Widforss, who painted landscapes of the national parks of the west during the 1920's and 1930's. Because of the distance everyone needs to carry water! You need to eat and drink while hiking!
Widforss Trail (163 K)
Trail Condition: Inclines, with some steep sections. Well defined. Shade along trail.
Directions to Trailhead: About 2.5 miles from the Lodge or 2 miles by hiking trail.
Trailhead Elevation: 8,080 Ft, elevation changes up to 650 feet. Max elevation about 8,250 feet.
Services: NO Assistance on Trail.
Note: NO water along trail.
| Destination | Distance (in Miles) | W = Water; T = Toilet/Restroom; E = Emergency Phone | |||||
| To Next Point | Total From Trailhead | Round Trip From Trailhead | Services | Notes | |||
| W | T | E | |||||
| Widforss Trailhead | 2.1 | ||||||
| Post 14 | 2.8 | 2.1 | 4.2 | End of self guided trail. | |||
| Widforss Point Overlook | 4.9 | 9.8 | |||||
| Ribbon Falls | Clear Creek Trail |
Ribbon Falls
Good day hike for those staying at Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel campground and Cottonwood campground. The hike from Phantom Ranch through the inner canyon follows the stream between the narrow canyon walls for the first part of the hike. Hiking from Cottonwood campgrounds is a easy short hike. Ribbon falls is a small water fall that gives an ideal opportunity to get wet. An ideal inner canyon day hike.
Everyone needs to carry water! A common mistake is not carrying water and not carrying enough water. When hiking in a group, each person should be carrying water; carrying for the group is a common mistake. Always remember to eat as well as drink while hiking, you will be using a lot of energy when hiking the canyon.
YIELD to Mules and Hikers going Up Hill.
Ribbon Falls Trail (207 K)
Trail Condition: Inclined. Well defined. Little shade on trail, mostly from canyon walls and time of day.
Services: No assistance on trail.
Note: No water along trail, stream water needs to be treated.
| Destination | Distance (in Miles) | Elevation Feet (Destination) |
W = Water; T = Toilet/Restroom; E = Emergency Phone | ||||
| To Destination | Round Trip |
Services | Notes | ||||
| W | T | E | |||||
| From Phantom Ranch or Bright Angel campground | 2546 | X | X | X | |||
| Ribbon Falls Junction | 5.8 | 11.6 | 3750 | Go over the hill to the bridge crossing (2nd Junction) | |||
| Ribbon Falls | 6.1 | 12.2 | 3720 | ||||
| From Cottonwood campground | 4065 | X | X | X | |||
| Ribbon Falls Junction | 1.1 | 2.2 | 3750 | ||||
| Ribbon Falls | 1.4 | 2.8 | 3720 | ||||
Clear Creek Trail
Good day hike for those staying at Phantom Ranch and Bright Angel campground. Not recommended during the summer for those staying at Cottonwood campground.
Clear Creek Trail covers 9 miles (18 miles round trip) to the campsite area. It is only recommended as day hike to the second overlook during the summer. Everyone needs to carry water! A common mistake is not carrying water and not carrying enough water. When hiking in a group, each person should be carrying water; carrying for the group is a common mistake. Always remember to eat as well as drink while hiking, you will be using a lot of energy when hiking the canyon.
YIELD to Mules and Hikers going Up Hill.
Clear Creek Trail (146 K)
Trail Condition: Steep. Well defined. Little shade on trail, mostly from canyon walls and time of day.
Services: No assistance on trail.
Note: No water along trail.
| Destination | Distance (in Miles) | Elevation Feet (Destination) |
W = Water; T = Toilet/Restroom; E = Emergency Phone | ||||
| To Destination | Round Trip |
Services | Notes | ||||
| W | T | E | |||||
| From Phantom Ranch | 2546 | X | X | X | |||
| Clear Creek Trail Jct. | 0.5 | 1.0 | 2662 | Right at Junction | |||
| First overlook | 1.1 | 2,2 | 3075 | ||||
| Second overlook | 1.4 | 2.8 | 3372 | Recommended turn around point for summer day hikes. | |||
| Campsite | 9 | 18 | 3631 | X | High point before descending into campsite is 4,240 feet. | ||
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