Hiking Adventure on Bright Angel Trail to Plateau Point
The Bright Angel Trail, located at the Bright Angel Lodge, 9 Village Loop Drive, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023, is the most used trail in Grand Canyon National Park. This corridor trail, heavily used and actively maintained, offers a challenging hike to Plateau Point, a popular destination for its breathtaking views.
The trail is named after the Bright Angel Fault, which provided a way to climb down the canyon walls to the water. Hikers should be aware that water is available at many points along the trail, but it's essential to check the alerts page for any closures, especially as of mid-2025, when water availability at Plateau Point is unreliable due to closures for waterline replacement.
The hike to Plateau Point is approximately 6.4 miles one way with significant elevation change, about 3,300 feet descent from the rim to Plateau Point. Hiking down is easier, but hiking back up is uphill the entire way, often taking twice as long as the descent.
Recommended gear includes plenty of water and electrolytes, sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen, sturdy hiking shoes appropriate for steep, rocky terrain, optional trekking poles, snacks, and salty foods to replenish energy and salts lost through sweating.
Fitness-wise, hikes to Plateau Point are not recommended for the average hiker unless well-prepared. Even fit hikers report knee pain and soreness afterward due to the strenuous uphill climb back to the rim. Starting early in the morning (e.g., before 7 AM) is advised to avoid the midday heat.
Mules are a common sight on the trail, having been hauling gear, supplies, and people in and out of the Grand Canyon for over a century. While they can be a pain for hikers, as they can take a long time to pass and will be crapping on the trail, it's important to remember that mules aren't aggressive. Hikers should keep their hands to themselves and not try to pet or feed the mules.
The native Havasupai were using the Bright Angel Trail for centuries to access the reliable water source at Indian Garden, which today offers a ranger station, toilets, picnic areas, a campground, and water. The Havasupai mean "people of the blue-green waters," referring to the color of the Colorado River.
In conclusion, to safely hike Bright Angel Trail to Plateau Point, one should be physically fit, prepare for strenuous uphill return, bring ample water and sun protection, and carry gear suitable for a demanding day hike in a hot, exposed environment. With the right preparation and a sense of adventure, the hike to Plateau Point promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Grand Canyon National Park.
[1] Grand Canyon National Park (n.d.). Bright Angel Trail. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/bright-angel-trail.htm [2] Hiking Grand Canyon (n.d.). Hiking Bright Angel Trail to Plateau Point. Retrieved from https://hikinggrandcanyon.com/bright-angel-trail-to-plateau-point/ [3] National Park Service (n.d.). Bright Angel Trail. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/grca/learn/nature/brightangeltrail.htm [4] Hiking Grand Canyon (n.d.). Bright Angel Trail Tips and Tricks. Retrieved from https://hikinggrandcanyon.com/bright-angel-trail-tips-and-tricks/ [5] National Park Service (n.d.). Water Availability. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/water-availability.htm
- The Bright Angel Trail, a renowned trail within Grand Canyon National Park, offers a thrilling hike to Plateau Point, boasting stunning views that are highly popular among visitors.
- This trail, named after the Bright Angel Fault, provides an route down the canyon walls to the water, making it a favorite among hikers.
- The 6.4-mile one-way hike to Plateau Point includes a significant elevation change of about 3,300 feet, with a challenging uphill climb on the return journey.
- Hikers need to carry essential gear like ample water, sun protection, sturdy hiking shoes, trekking poles, and snacks to tackle the demanding day hike in a hot, exposed environment.
- On this trail, it's not uncommon to spot mules, historic residents who have been ferrying gear, supplies, and people within the Grand Canyon for over a century.
- The native Havasupai people, meaning "people of the blue-green waters," have used the Bright Angel Trail for centuries to access the reliable water source at Indian Garden.
