Bright Angel Trail

Most excursions into the Grand Canyon, whether you’re hiking or riding a mule, follow Bright Angel Trail. The well-maintained, graded path means it’s relatively accessible, though steep and challenging on the return climb, like all canyon trails in the park. Join a private or small-group day hike to take on the trail safely with an expert guide; these hikes can take you to a midpoint resthouse, or farther along the trail to the Havasupai Gardens oasis or Plateau Point scenic overlook.

• Bright Angel Trail has resthouses, toilets, and drinking water available along the route. The Park Service recommends bringing ample water and snacks with you when hiking.

• The path has both morning and afternoon shade, as well as stretches in direct sun. Wear a hat and sunscreen when hiking.

• Though the path is routinely maintained by the Park Service, non-slip shoes and poles are recommended to take on the steep route.

• You will often meet groups of mules taking visitors up and down the trail. Step to the inside of the trail and wait quietly as they pass.

• You must have a permit to camp inside the canyon, so don’t hike so far down the Bright Angel Trail that you can’t make it back up by sunset. Most hikers turn around at the 1.5-mile (2.4-kilometer) or 3-mile (4.8-kilometer) resthouse; more experienced hikers can reach Havasupai Gardens or Plateau Point before turning back.

• Always check the weather and trail conditions posted on the signs at the trailhead before heading out.

• The hike is not suitable for visitors with limited mobility or small children.

The trailhead for Bright Angel Trail is just west of Bright Angel Lodge, Lookout Studio, and Kolb Studio inside Grand Canyon National Park. You can reach it from the shuttle bus stop at Hermit Road Interchange or drive there and park next to the trailhead. There’s additional parking at the Backcountry Information Center (Lot D), about a 10-minute walk away.

Because of the extreme summer temperatures, the Park Service recommends avoiding the Bright Angel Trail during the midday hours. If you’re hiking as far as Havasupai Gardens or Plateau Point, set out early in the morning and wait out the heat before returning in the late afternoon. Shorter hikes can be completed in the early morning or later afternoon.

Most visitors make their first foray into the Grand Canyon via Bright Angel Trail, but there are several scenic trails that make for great day hikes from the South Rim. South Kaibab Trail is a steep but short hike with splendid views, while Hermit Trail and Grandview Trail are steep, unmaintained routes suitable for expert hikers who want dazzling views. The North Kaibab Trail, the only maintained trail from the North Rim, offers worthwhile panoramas from the opposite side of the canyon.