Bright Angel Trail - Grand Canyon National Park, AZ - Popular hiking trail

The Bright Angel Trail is one of only two fully-maintained hiking trails into the Grand Canyon from the South Rim, and at around 9 miles long with a descent of over 4,500 ft it isn't for the faint hearted. The trail offers some spectacular views that can't be fully appreciated from the rim, but being so strenuous it's recommended that only experienced hikers should attempt the whole thing.

The hike starts at Bright Angel Lodge and takes walkers all the way down to the Colorado River. The full hike takes around 5 hours going down and 9 hours returning, however many prefer to stop much sooner at the first rest point 1.5 miles in, making it a 2 hour round-trip. There's another rest house 3 miles in as well, with both offering shade and water. Other day hikes can be undertaken with a 12 mile round trip, so there are plenty of options for those who don't wish to do the whole thing.

The trail makes its way along the Garden Creek and can be extremely dusty, so shouldn't be attempted by inexperienced hikers who are afraid of a little dirt. There's even the option of taking the trail by horse or mule, however this will need to be booked many months in advance as it's an extremely popular mode of transport into the canyon.

There are some particularly steep descents during the first part of the hike, which is why so many choose to only go a couple of miles in. However, those who keep going will be able to seek out some spectacular views, most notably from Plateau Point, from which hikers will be able to see the Colorado River and the inner gorge in all their glory.

There are various options for an overnight stay throughout the trail, and those who make it all the way down to the river will be able to stay at the Phantom Lodge, offering both a campsite and lodge facilities. From there hikers can go even further if they wish and take advantage of the numerous other trails on offer, or they can take the long hike back to the top again.

The trail is the most popular and even the easiest route of the South Rim, despite it being so hard-going. Visitors should be aware that it can become incredibly hot during the height of summer, up to 110?F, and indeed the National Park Service recommends that it shouldn't be attempted to do the round-trip in one day from the months of May to September. Another hazard, this time during the winter and early spring, is ice, so hikers should again take precautions.

The Bright Angel Trail is open daily during daylight hours, and no licenses are required for non-commercial hikes. With such spectacular scenery it's a must for first-time and seasoned hikers alike, and with a number of options and rest points available for all abilities there's something for everyone.

ZH