Backpack the Bright Angel Trailhead to Indian Garden Campground
Details
Distance
9.6 miles
Elevation Gain
3060 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Added by Lauren Schusterman
A great way to see the beauty of the Grand Canyon while avoiding the heat (and crowds) of the summer. By camping in the canyon you get to see the sunset and sunrise from the canyon.
The trail begins just outside of the Grand Canyon village at the Bright Angel Trailhead. The hike begins to descend immediately in continuous switchbacks. The trail can get very icy so shoe traction devices, while not necessary, are very useful. Along the trail there are rest houses at the 1/3 and 2/3 points on the trail to the Indian Garden campground. Eventually the trail levels out and continues flat for a bit before reaching the campsite. Once at the campsite pick a site and make sure to store your food and any hygiene products in the animal-proof storage containers.
For an optional side trip, wake up before sunrise and walk 1.5 miles out to plateau point. This part of the track is primarily flat and takes you out to a point where you can see the Colorado River. It only takes about 25 to 30 minutes each way and is well worth the extra effort.
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Reviews
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Challenging and beautiful hike
The Bright Angel Trail is one of my favorite at the Grand Canyon. The trail begins near the Grand Canyon Village, right behind the Bright Angel Lodge. There are plenty of rest stops and areas to use the restroom or refill your water. I would recommend you do this trail in cooler weather as the ascent can be rather difficult in extreme heat. Keep in mind that for every hour you descend it takes about 2 to ascend - the views are just as good at mile marker 1.5 as they are at mile marker 3, so it is completely unnecessary to continue on into the canyon for a day hike. Otherwise, the Indian Garden Campground is the perfect place to spend the night, stargaze and relax before making the climb back up.
4.0
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