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Suggested Hikes
Corridor

When planning your trip, remember that the most enjoyable and safest seasons for hiking are spring and fall. It is desirable to schedule at least two nights in the canyon. This allows a rest and recovery day before the hike out and reduces the distance to be covered each day. You should consider elevation gain and loss, not just mileage, when researching possible itineraries. No trail is easy, and since most people live at elevations near sea level, they find that hiking at high elevations greatly contributes to their fatigue.

Over 250 people are rescued from the Canyon each year. The difference between a great adventure in Grand Canyon and a trip to the hospital (or worse) is up to YOU - follow the rules of smart hiking and - DO NOT attempt to hike from the rim to the river and back in one day, especially during the months of May to September. stay hydrated (drink plenty of water and electrolyte drinks) avoid hiking in the heat of the day (10am to 4pm) eat often (carbohydrates & salty foods) rest often (sit in the shade) get wet (wet your shirt, hat, & wear a wet bandana around your neck) DO NOT attempt to hike down to the river & back in one day

Only the South Kaibab, Bright Angel, and North Kaibab are maintained and patrolled on a regular basis. These three trails meet at the bottom near the only bridges that span the Colorado River. Together they create a popular cross-canyon "corridor." These wider corridor trails offer expansive views, reliable water sources, great camping, and the opportunity for hiking in and out on different trails. Backcountry rangers highly recommend this area, especially for a first Grand Canyon adventure. Most visitors begin and end their hikes from the South Rim.

Suggested itineraries for hikes at Grand Canyon from the South Rim:

Suggested itineraries for Rim-to-Rim hikes at Grand Canyon from the South Rim to the North Rim

Roads leading to the North Rim are closed during winter months due to heavy snowfall. The hiking distance from the North Rim to the Colorado River is twice as far as from the South Rim to the river. The minimum time recommended for a round trip from the North Rim is three nights.

Suggested itineraries for hikes at Grand Canyon from the North Rim:

Suggested itineraries for first time Rim-to-Rim hikes at Grand Canyon from the North Rim to the South Rim:

The Basics on Corridor Trails

South Kaibab Trail
The trail begins on the South Rim near Yaki Point, and descends to the Colorado River. Elevation change from rim to river is 4860 ft (1480 m), along a 6.3 mile (10.1 km) trail. Because of the unavailability of water and steepness of this trail, rangers recommend hiking down this trail only - and recommend using the Bright Angel trail for the hike out on the next day

River Trail
The trail has little elevation variation and follows the Colorado River for 1.7 miles (2.7 km) between the Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails. Two foot bridges permit access to the north side of the Colorado River.

Bright Angel Trail
The trail begins on the South Rim just west of Kolb Studio, and descends to the Colorado River. Elevation change from rim to river is 4460 ft (1360 m), along a 7.8 mile (12.6 km) trail.

Tonto Trail
This trail crosses the Tonto Platform approximately 3900 ft (1200 m) below the South Rim, intersecting both the Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails.

North Kaibab Trail
The trail begins on the North Rim at the head of Roaring Springs Canyon and descends to the Colorado River. Elevation from rim to river is 5850 ft (1780 m), along a 14.2 mi (22.9 km) trail.

Facilities

DW - drinking water
TF - Toilet Facilities
EP - Emergency Phone
RS - Ranger Station
CG - Campgrounds

Consider Day Hikes

Day hiking is a rewarding alternative if you are unable to obtain an overnight permit. Day hiking can be a safer and more enjoyable choice than an overnight trip into a difficult area that is beyond the capabilities of any single member of your group. Be sure to prepare for your day hike as carefully as you would an overnight trip, and do not attempt excessive mileages. Permits are not required for non-commercial day hikes.

Other Hikes

Grand Canyon Threshold Zone hikes are for experienced hikers. If you have Grand Canyon backpacking experience in the corridor (Bright Angel, Indian Garden, and Cottonwood campgrounds) you may have the experience needed to safely complete a non-corridor hike, or you may want another corridor itinerary. These hikes are in a threshold zone (recommended only for experienced Grand Canyon hikers). Non-maintained trail. Scarce water sources. Occasional pit toilets. (Recommended Threshold Zone Hikes)

Backcountry Permit Request Form NOTE: This is a printable form only. You must print the form, fill it out, and then fax/mail it directly to the Backcountry Information Center.