There are a few main trails that hikers may use in Grand Canyon National Park. The Bright Angel Trail in Grand Canyon National Park runs from the south rim to the river, while the North Kaibab Trail goes from river to north rim. There is also the South Kaibab Trail, which, like Bright Angel, runs from the south rim to the river, but the trail is often traveled by pack mules, and is not as direct for hikers. These trails may all be used by people going both ways. At the bottom of these trails, a campground, and a bed and breakfast-type hotel called Phantom Ranch lie along the Colorado River. Great scenery and wildlife follow each trail for its entire length.
Hiking the Bright Angel Trail in Grand Canyon National Park, between River and South Rim
The Bright Angel Trail is probably the most hiked trail in the Grand Canyon. It connects the south rim, where people look over the canyon, and where most of the park's lodgings are found, to the Colorado River, over a distance of a little over nine miles. If going the whole way, from rim to river, or from river to rim, it is imperative to get an early start, particularly in the summer. Hikers will be exposed to the sun beginning at around 9 a.m., so, as inconvenient as it sounds, setting out at 4 a.m. with a headlamp is going to make for the most comfortable hike.
Halfway through the trail's distance is a rest spot known as Indian Gardens, which has water and restrooms, and there are two other rest spots uphill from there. Two thirds of the elevation is gained in the last (heading uphill) third of the trail, so be prepared for a serious slope nearing the rim. However, the part of the trail near the river is very sandy, and when the sun has broken over the canyons, it is very hot. So either way, so set out early!
Hiking the North Kaibab Trail in the Grand Canyon, Between River and North Rim
The North Kaibab Trail connects the Colorado River to the north rim. When hiking the North Kaibab Trail in Grand Canyon National Park, it is important to be prepared and know that it is very long. The first few miles, when beginning at the river, are not very steep, and it is more like a basic walking trail along a river, as it follows a creek for some time. The whole trail is nearly fifteen miles from river to rim, so, when going the whole way, set out very early. The last bit of the upper section is very steep, and it is where most of the elevation, when heading to the rim, is gained. This is between Roaring Springs and the north rim.
Things to Keep in Mind when Hiking in the Grand Canyon
Unless doing a float trip that ends in the middle of the canyon, everyone hiking these trails will start from the rim, and hike downward. If doing the whole trail, hikers must make sure that there is room in the Bright Angel campground, or in Phantom Ranch, unless they are up for the serious challenge of going down to the river, and back up to either rim in the same day. Keep in mind that it is nearly 20 miles round trip (down and back up) on the Bright Angel Trail, and 28 round trip on the North Kaibab Trail. The distance between north and south rim, for hikers going from rim to river to the other rim, is about 24 miles.
Supplies to Bring when Hiking Long Trails in the Grand Canyon
When hiking the Grand Canyon's longer trails, there are several supplies that everyone should have in a backpack. Water is most important. Drinking water constantly is imperative, and there are several refill spots along the maintained trails of Grand Canyon National Park, such as the Bright Angel and North Kaibab Trails. Food is also very necessary. Hyponatremia, which is essentially the opposite of dehydration, may occur when people drink too many fluids, and do not replace the sodium lost with the exertion of energy. Several small snacks should be brought along, such as chips, sausages, peanuts, and cookies, and electrolyte additives for water may also help hikers. Drinking constantly, as well as eating small snacks every so often is imperative. Basic hiking supplies include boots or sturdy shoes, a headlamp or flashlight for those setting out early, sunscreen, a hat, and a trusty backpack. For those using a trail campground, basic camping supplies are necessary.
Hiking in the Grand Canyon is a great pastime for people visiting the park. Again, hiking the whole length of any of the trails is a major commitment, and when beginning at either rim, it will require hikers to hike both up and down. To avoid having to do that in one day, check the Bright Angel campground or Phantom Ranch, located along the Colorado River, where the two major trails connect.
 |
