GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK – PHANTOM RANCH

LOCATION: Northwest Arizona
HIKE STARTS: South Kaibab Trailhead
HIKE ENDS: Bright Angel Trailhead
TOTAL DISTANCE: 16.6 Miles
HIKE TYPE: One-Way, Shuttle Hike
HIKE DIFFICULTY: Difficult
TRAILS USED: Bright Angel, South Kaibab Trails
TRAIL TRAFFIC: Heavy
TRIP TYPE: Overnight to Multi-Day Hike

MANAGEMENT: 

Grand Canyon National Park 
P.O. Box 129 
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023

Visitor Information
(928) 638-7888

HIGHLIGHTS: The Grand Canyon is a World Heritage Site and is one of the most spectacular examples of erosion anywhere in the world. The views from the rim of the canyon are nothing short of spectacular, and people come from all over the world to see them. Many backpackers make a round trip hike down into the Grand Canyon and stay at either the Bright Angel Campground or the Phantom Ranch (which are located a short distance from each other.) Along the way are amazing views, two suspension bridges that span the width of the Colorado, and typically a mule train or two that are used to transport food and supplies to the ranch.

The Operator and I spent three days in the Grand Canyon and hiked two of the corridor trails, the South Kaibab Trail and the Bright Angel Trail on our trip. This is a popular and heavily traveled route through the canyon but the frequent rest stops, access to water, and other amenities make it a very user-friendly overnight route suitable for all ages. Phantom Ranch is located a short distance from the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. There are both cabins and tent sites in the area including a cantina that sells a few snacks, beers and accessories during limited operating hours which are usually in the evening. Many overnight visitors in the Grand Canyon spend at least one night in this busy but entertaining area.

100 Classic Hikes in Arizona Arizona Day Hikes

MORE DETAILS

bullet click to see trail photos from this hike to Phantom Ranch: December 10, 2002
bullet click to view a detailed trip report of this hike in Grand Canyon National Park: December 10, 2002 (password required)
bullet click to view maps of this backpacking trip in the Grand Canyon: area map, detail map, profile map, South Rim Desert View Map, South Rim Village Map
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bullet click to access the guidebook Grand Canyon National Park which has details on this destination
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