Hiking to the bottom of the Grand Canyon is no ordinary feat. It is a challenging yet rewarding experience, one that is on the bucket list of many avid hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. If you are looking for an adventure that will test your endurance and leave you with breathtaking views, then hiking down the Bright Angel Trail to the bottom of the Grand Canyon is the perfect adventure for you. In this post, we will take you through our experience of hiking to the bottom of the Grand Canyon on the Bright Angel trail and give you tips on how to tackle this exciting challenge.
Disclaimer: This post may feature some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). It’s one of the ways I can keep producing free guides and resources for readers. Learn more about my affiliate policy here. Thank you for the support!
History of the Grand Canyon
The history of Grand Canyon National Park is a fascinating tale that begins long before it was designated as a national park. The indigenous tribes that have called the area home for centuries hold significant cultural and spiritual significance in this breathtakingly beautiful region. The Grand Canyon itself formed around 6 million years ago through a combination of geological activity, carving out one of the most spectacular landscapes in the world.
The park was eventually designated as a national park in 1919, preserving and protecting this natural wonder for generations to come. Today, the park continues to awe visitors with its stunning vistas and abundant wildlife, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Best Time of Year to Hike the Bright Angel Trail
If you’re planning on hiking the Bright Angel Trail to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, the best time to embark on your adventure depends largely on your tolerance for extreme temperatures. During summer months, the climate can be brutal with triple-digit temperatures and high humidity levels. On the other hand, the winter months offer cooler temperatures that may be more comfortable for some hikers, but also carry the risk of icy trails and occasional snowfall. Many seasoned hikers recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall when temperatures are more moderate and the crowds are thinner. No matter when you visit, always be sure to check the weather forecast and bring plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
Preparing for the Hike
Planning a hike down to the bottom of the Grand Canyon can be both exciting and daunting. There are a few key things you’ll want to keep in mind while preparing for your journey. First and foremost, packing the right gear is essential. Make sure you bring sturdy hiking boots, layers of clothing in case temperatures fluctuate, and rain gear just in case. One of the most important items to pack is water. The heat can be intense and staying hydrated is crucial.
Bring plenty of water for yourself and research refill and restocking stations along your route. When it comes to food, pack lightweight, high-energy snacks to fuel your body. Lastly, safety should never be overlooked. Research the route beforehand, report your plans with a reliable source, and don’t hesitate to turn back if you’re not feeling up to the challenge. With a little bit of planning and preparation, your hike to the bottom of the Grand Canyon can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Where to Stay
When planning a trip to hike to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, the first decision you’ll need to make is where to stay the night beforehand. Luckily, there are plenty of options available for every type of traveler. For those who prefer to rough it, campgrounds are located within the National Park and offer a unique opportunity to experience nature up close. At the South Rim and near the Bright Angel Trailhead there are two developed campgrounds.
Mather Campground and Desert View Campgrounds both require reservations. If those are full, dispersed camping is also permitted outside of the park, just make sure you’re following best practices for dispersed camping. However, if you’re looking for a bit more comfort, lodges and hotels are also available both inside and outside of the park. No matter where you decide to stay, be sure to book in advance as these options tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak hiking season.
There is also a campground along the Bright Angel Trail called Havasupai Gardens Campground if you don’t want to go all the way to the bottom in one day. You could also plan on staying there if you want to split up your trip back up the canyon. At the bottom of the canyon there are several campgrounds available – check the NPS website for conditions and reservations.
The Bright Angel Trail
The Bright Angel Trail is one the most well-known and popular trails in the Grand Canyon. The trail starts at the south rim and descends approximately 9.5 miles to the Colorado River at the bottom of the canyon. During this hike, you will experience a total elevation change of over 4000 feet. You’ll encounter switchbacks, red rocks, and scenic views at every turn. It’s a strenuous hike, but the amazing views and experience make it totally worth it.
The first leg of the trail is a 3-mile descent to the first rest area, “Indian Garden.” The hike to Indian Garden can be misleading, as the way down is fairly easy and breezy. However, the moment we started to hike back up the canyon, we were in for a real test of our endurance. It was hot and sunny, but we were determined to reach the bottom.
Once we reached Indian Garden, we took a break under a shaded tree and filled our water bottles from the water fountain. This rest stop is critical as it is the last water fountain before you reach the bottom. The most challenging and strenuous part of the trail starts after the Indian Garden rest stop. The climb back up is steep, with numerous switchbacks that make the hike even more challenging.
As we continued on the trail, we witnessed a series of stunning landscapes. We saw towering cliffs soaring overhead, the roar of the river in the distance. We even came face to face with a few animals like squirrels and mountain goats. Reaching the bottom of the Grand Canyon was overwhelming in all the best ways. We spent a couple of nights camping near the river, swimming in the refreshing river water, and taking in the beauty of the canyon’s walls.
Staying at Phantom Ranch
Have you ever dreamed of staying overnight in one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders? Look no further than a visit to Phantom Ranch at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just love exploring incredible destinations off the beaten path, this unique location offers an unforgettable experience. With campsites available for those who book in advance, you can rest assured that your overnight stay will be comfortable and enjoyable. Plus, you won’t have to worry about bringing all your own supplies, as Phantom Ranch offers food, water, and other amenities for your convenience. So if you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, pack your bags and make your reservations today for an unforgettable stay at Phantom Ranch.
One thing to keep in mind when you are planning to hike the Bright Angel trail is to pack appropriately. You will need clothing suitable for hiking in a desert environment- sunscreen, a hat, and lightweight layers of clothes. Hiking boots or shoes with ankle support are essential, and a comfortable backpack to carry your water, food, and other essential gear is a must-have. Remember, the weather on the trail can be unpredictable, so always make sure to check the weather forecast before you set out.
What to Wear
My clothing recommendations for hiking in the Grand Canyon varies depending on when in the season you’re going. If you opt for shorts, I like the Prana double peak shorts, but you might want to start with a pair of warm leggings under them if it’s cold. For hiking pants, my go to are the double peak joggers.
On top, for summer hiking I start with a tri-blend t shirt or tank, and then layer on an SPF pullover if it’s warmer outside, or a smartwool pullover if it’s cold or windy. And I usually carried my rain jacket. Finally, my go to hiking shoes are merrell siren sports. They’re comfortable, waterproof, and have Vibram soles which are super grippy, which you’ll appreciate for hiking on all the sandstone out there!
Hiking to the bottom of the Grand Canyon on the Bright Angel Trail is nothing short of an amazing and memorable experience. You will push yourself both mentally and physically, but the views and the feeling of reaching the bottom are worth every drop of sweat. With the right gear, hydration and determination, you will make it to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and seize an unforgettable memory. So, lace up your boots, pack your backpack, and prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure into the heart of the Grand Canyon.
As always, please practice Leave No Trace principles when enjoying the outdoors! Check local trail and weather conditions before any hike.
Need help with your day pack? Start here!
Looking for some inspiration to get outside? Look here!