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Trail · Grand Canyon Village, Arizona
Bright Angel Trail
The best-known trail to descend into the Grand Canyon from Grand Canyon Village, with rest houses and seasonal water in the first kilometers. Reaching the river and returning in one day is not recommended.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Bright Angel Trail
The Bright Angel Trail begins on the west side of Grand Canyon Village, near the historic hotels, and descends in switchbacks down the canyon wall following a geological fault, a route used formerly by the Havasupai. It is the most popular trail for those wanting to experience the canyon from the inside.
The first stopping points are the rest houses about 2.4 km and 4.8 km from the rim, with shade and, part of the year, drinking water. Lower down is Havasupai Gardens, an oasis of trees at about 7 km. The Colorado River and Phantom Ranch are much farther and over 1,300 meters below; the park discourages attempting to go to the river and back in one day.
The golden rule is simple: the ascent takes about twice as long as the descent. In summer the heat increases dramatically as you go down, and there are annual rescues of people who underestimated the effort. Park rangers recommend starting early and turning back before you run out of half your water and energy.
Near the trailhead a short tunnel cut into the rock and rock paintings on a nearby wall mark the route’s antiquity.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to six hours, depending on how far you descend.
Best time
Early morning, especially from May to September. In winter, the upper trail often has ice.
How to get there
The trailhead is west of Grand Canyon Village, next to Bright Angel Lodge, at the park shuttle stop for the Village and Hermit Road routes.
Tip
Bring water and savory snacks even for a short descent and check the park website to see which water stations are working. In winter, use traction cleats on your boots.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Bright Angel Trail
How far should you descend the Bright Angel Trail in one day?
For most people, to the first or second rest house, about 2.4 km and 4.8 km from the rim. Havasupai Gardens, about 7 km down, is for those who are well prepared. Going to the river and returning the same day is not recommended.
Is there water on the Bright Angel Trail?
There are potable water stations at some rest houses, but some operate only seasonally and pipelines can fail. Check the park website and always carry your own water.
Do you need a permit for the Bright Angel Trail?
No permit is needed to hike and return the same day. A permit from the park is required to camp inside the canyon and must be requested in advance.