Grand Canyon hiking · Hiking in Grand Canyon
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Hiking in Grand Canyon
Hiking in Grand Canyon
Hiking in the Grand Canyon is unlike anywhere else on Earth - trails range in difficulty from fifteen minute loops to multi-week treks, and all offer spectacular views. In addition, there are numerous unmaintained trails throughout the park for the more adventurous. For individuals who prefer guided hikes a variety of outfitters offer options. Note that while most canyon hikes entail significant elevation change, less-strenuous hiking options include nature walks along the rim trail which offer great views without requiring much exertion.
All hikers should take trail warnings extremely seriously. Temperatures in the canyon may vary by 50-70 �F depending on elevation and time of day, and unlike most places, the most challenging portion of a hike in the Grand Canyon will always be the end, meaning that if you run out of water you will get heat stroke, and if you get too tired you will be unable to get back to the trailhead. Carry more liquid than you think you'll need, and know your limits. It is far too easy to overextend yourself hiking in the canyon, and each year over 250 people require rescue due to underestimating the heat and difficulty.
Bright Angel Trail. The park's most popular trail is the Bright Angel trail which starts near the Bright Angel Lodge. This trail traverses a seemingly unending series of switchbacks down the canyon wall before leveling out somewhat around the oasis of Indian Gardens. During the summer months water is available at the 1.5 mi (2.4 km) resthouse, the 3 mi (4.8 km) resthouse and Indian Gardens (4.5 mi or 7.2 km). However, check to ensure that the water is functioning before departing; water main breaks are common. Most hikers will traverse only a portion of this trail, and the park recommends that day hikers never attempt to go further than Indian Gardens. Winter hikers should note that the top two miles of this trail are likely to be icy and should wear crampons or other appropriate footwear. Distances to waypoints (round-trip) are: Mile-and-a-half Resthouse (3.0 mi / 4.8 km with 1131 ft / 345 m elevation change), Three-mile Resthouse (6.0 mi / 9.6 km with 2112 ft / 644 m elevation change), Indian Garden (9.8 mi / 15.8 km with 3060 ft / 933 m elevation change), Colorado River (16.2 mi / 26.2 km with 4380 ft / 1337 m elevation change), Bright Angel Campground (19.2 mi / 31.0 km with 4380 ft / 1337 m elevation change).
South Kaibab Trail. Slightly steeper than the Bright Angel trail, this trail starts from Yaki Point and follows a ridgeline into the canyon. Because the trail follows a ridge the views are spectacular and wide-open, but the amazing scenery comes at a cost: there is almost no shade to protect hikers from the sun, and the lack of natural water sources means that there is less plant and animal life. Hikers should be aware that there is no water available along this trail and prepare for brutal conditions - summer hikes can be particularly dangerous. Distances to waypoints (round-trip) are: Cedar Ridge (3.0 mi / 4.8 km with 1140 ft / 348 m of elevation change), Skeleton Point (6.0 mi / 9.6 km with 2040 ft / 622 m of elevation change), The Tipoff (8.8 mi / 14.2 km with 3260 ft / 994 m of elevation change), Bright Angel Campground (14 mi / 22.6 km with 4780 ft / 1457 m of elevation change).
Hermit Trail. This is a steep, unmaintained, rocky trail that descends from the South Rim to the river, passing fossilized reptile tracks and abandoned camps from the early 1900s along the way. The trailhead is just beyond Hermit's Rest and is accessible via shuttle bus. There is no water available along this trail, and shade is scarce during the summer. This trail also provides access to Dripping Springs and Santa Maria Spring. Distances to waypoints (round-trip) are: Dripping Springs Trail junction (3.2 mi / 5.1 km with 1400 ft / 427 m of elevation change), Hermit Camp (14.0 mi / 22.4 km with 3840 ft / 1171 m of elevation change), Colorado River (17 mi / 27.2 km with 4240 ft / 1293 m of elevation change).
Grandview Trail. This is another steep, rough trail that descends from the South Rim to Horseshoe Mesa and Cottonwood Creek; it does not go to the Colorado River. The trailhead is at Grandview Point and leads down to Horseshoe Mesa where several mining relics including ore crushers and cabins are still present. The trail then continues on to Cottonwood Creek, which will be dry at most times of year. There is no water along this trail, so you must carry sufficient water with you. Distances to waypoints (round-trip) are: Coconino Saddle (2.2 mi / 3.5 km with 1165 ft / 355 m of elevation change), Horseshoe Mesa (6.0 mi / 9.6 km with 2500 ft / 762 m of elevation change), Cottonwood Creek (10.0 mi / 16.0 km with 3800 feet / 1158 m of elevation change).
The Most Frequently Asked Travel Questions about Grand Canyon
Where To Stay & Best Hotels in Grand Canyon - updated Apr 2024
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WHERE TO TRAVEL NEXT IN 2020
Grand Canyon Travel Guide from Wikitravel. Many thanks to all Wikitravel contributors. Text is available under Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0, images are available under various licenses, see each image for details.