Top Grand Canyon Trails: 4, Bright Angel Trail

Because water is available at several points along the way, and rangers are stationed at intervals, able to give assistance if required, the Bright Angel Trail is the most popular route into the Grand Canyon, although only a small percentage of hikers descend all the way to the Colorado River, which is crossed on a suspension bridge. Intermediate destinations are the 1.5 and 3 mile rest houses, the oasis of Indian Gardens after 4.5 miles and the inner gorge overlook at Plateau Point (6.3 miles, along a short spur). One negative aspect of the trail, for hikers, is the presence of mules.

Length 9.5 miles (15.3 km), elevation change 4,550 feet (1,387 meters); to Phantom Ranch

Trail description