Phantom Ranch
Grand Canyon National Park
P.O. Box 129
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023
(928) 638-7888
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.
On this hike, we 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.
- click to see a video of a backpacking trip in the Grand Canyon to Bright Angel Campground: December 10, 2002
- click to see trail photos from this hike to Phantom Ranch: December 10, 2002
- click to view a detailed trip report of this hike in Grand Canyon National Park: December 10, 2002 (password required)
- click for a trip report of this winter hike on the South Kaibab and Bright Angel Trails (password required)
- click for a map of the Grand Canyon and surrounding area
- click for a map from the Park Headquarters to the East Entrance in the Grand Canyon
- click for a park map of the Grand Canyon South Rim Village
- click for a trail map and profile map of this hike to Phantom Ranch in the Grand Canyon
- click for a topographical and profile map of this backpacking trip in Grand Canyon National Park (password required)
- click for more hikes from this trip on the Rim Trail and Arizona Trail
- click for hikes to Santa Maria Spring and Shoshone Point in the park
- click to access the guidebook Grand Canyon National Park which has details on this destination
- click for other Arizona hiking and backpacking books