Coconino County, Arizona · 5.0 · 8 reviews
Hike the South Kaibab - Colorado River - Bright Angel Loop with confidence by using the HiiKER toolkit to help you before your hike and during your hike with the HiiKER app.
Embarking on the South Kaibab - Colorado River - Bright Angel Loop is a journey through the heart of the Grand Canyon, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. This approximately 33 km (20.5 miles) loop trail, with an elevation gain of around 1500 meters (nearly 5000 feet), is a challenging and rewarding experience for seasoned hikers.
Starting from the South Kaibab Trailhead, near Yaki Point on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, hikers descend steeply into the canyon, dropping about 1120 meters (about 3700 feet) over 10.5 km (6.5 miles) to the Colorado River. The trailhead is accessible by shuttle bus from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, as private vehicles are not allowed at the South Kaibab Trailhead.
The South Kaibab Trail offers panoramic views with no water sources along the way, so hikers must carry an adequate supply. Key landmarks include Ooh Aah Point, Cedar Ridge, and Skeleton Point, each offering unique vistas of the canyon's vastness.
Upon reaching the river, hikers cross the Colorado on the Black Bridge and can rest at Bright Angel Campground or the historic Phantom Ranch. The area is rich in history, with the ranch being one of the oldest tourist facilities in the canyon, offering a glimpse into early 20th-century tourism.
The ascent to the South Rim is via the Bright Angel Trail, which is longer but less steep than the South Kaibab Trail. The climb back up is approximately 13.5 km (8.5 miles) with an elevation gain of around 1350 meters (4400 feet). The trail features several rest houses and water sources, which are critical for hydration and rest, especially during the hotter months.
Landmarks along the Bright Angel Trail include Indian Garden, a lush oasis 7.5 km (4.7 miles) from the rim that was historically used by Native Americans, and the Three-Mile Resthouse and Mile-and-a-Half Resthouse, which offer places to take a break and refill water bottles.
The trail concludes at the Bright Angel Trailhead near the Grand Canyon Village, where hikers can find amenities and transportation options. The village itself is a National Historic Landmark District, with buildings dating back to the early 1900s.
Throughout the hike, adventurers will encounter a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, bighorn sheep, and a diverse array of bird species. The geological formations and strata exposed by the canyon's steep walls tell a story of Earth's history spanning millions of years.
Due to the trail's difficulty and the extreme weather conditions that can occur in the Grand Canyon, it is imperative that hikers prepare thoroughly. This includes checking the weather forecast, starting early to avoid the midday heat, carrying plenty of water and high-energy food, and being equipped with a map and navigation tools, such as the HiiKER app, to stay on track.
The South Kaibab - Colorado River - Bright Angel Loop is a testament to the grandeur and history of the Grand Canyon, offering an unforgettable experience for those who take on its challenge.
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