Hiking Pathway: Bright Angel Trail
Exploring the Bright Angel Trail in Grand Canyon National Park
The Bright Angel Trail, originally known as "Indian Garden", has a rich history dating back to 300AD, when it was cultivated by the Havasupai tribe. This iconic hike, starting near Bright Angel Lodge on the South Rim, offers a variety of destinations, each with its unique challenges and rewards.
Destinations on the Bright Angel Trail
- 1.5 Mile Resthouse - This historic resthouse, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1935-1936, is a 3-mile round trip from the trailhead. With a manageable 1,100 feet elevation gain, it takes 2-3 hours to reach. The route includes historic tunnels and a pictograph area, making it suitable for casual hikers or those wishing a shorter hike.
- 3 Mile Resthouse - This destination offers iconic canyon views and is a 6-mile round trip from the trailhead. After the first 1.5 miles, the trail becomes steeper and more challenging with switchbacks. It takes 3-4 hours to complete and is recommended for those seeking a harder but still moderate day hike.
- Havasupai Gardens - This lush oasis, located 9 miles from the trailhead, is a popular turnaround point for day hikers. With a 3,050 feet elevation gain, it takes 4-5 hours to reach. Havasupai Gardens offers water, shade, and backcountry camping, making it a great destination for most day hikers.
- Plateau Point - For experienced hikers seeking the longest and most strenuous route with spectacular views, Plateau Point is the destination. With an estimated 3,200 feet elevation gain and a 12.5-mile round trip, it takes 6-7 hours to complete. Plateau Point offers a solitary viewpoint with panoramic views of the Colorado River.
Preparing for the Hike
It is advised to bring a backpack, comfortable footwear (trail runners or sneakers), trekking poles, snacks, electrolyte drinks, and a satellite-enabled phone or satellite communicator for the hike. Water is available on the trail, but it's recommended to carry some with you. Early morning starts are recommended to avoid heat risks. Parking is available at the lot right next to the trailhead, Parking Lot D by the Backcountry Information Center, or by taking free shuttles from a bigger parking area like the Visitor Center.
Additional Context
The Bright Angel Trail was once private and cost $1 (about $40 today) to hike. The National Park Service was able to end private control of the trail by 1927. Havasupai Gardens was the last area where the Havasupai were forced out of by the Parks Service in 1928. Snow and ice can linger on the upper sections in winter, especially in the morning.
Havasupai means "people of the blue-green waters," referring to the color of the Colorado River. The Bright Angel Trail is the most iconic hike in the Grand Canyon, offering a journey through history, nature, and culture.
- To access the historic 1.5 Mile Resthouse on the Bright Angel Trail, one should first set off from the trailhead near Bright Angel Lodge on the South Rim, traversing through tunnels and pictograph areas for a 3-mile round trip adventure with a 1,100 feet elevation gain.
- Those seeking iconic canyon views and a harder but still moderate day hike may opt for the 3 Mile Resthouse, a 6-mile round trip endeavor that includes steep switchbacks, taking roughly 3-4 hours to complete.
- For an immersive experience, hikers can aim for the lush and picturesque Havasupai Gardens, a 9-mile journey from the trailhead with a 3,050 feet elevation gain, offering water, shade, and backcountry camping options.
