4 Top Treks for Hiking Grand Canyon

Over 4 million people make the Grand Canyon their vacation destination because it offers an opportunity to experience a spectacular natural wonder and a truly American experience that will last in memory for many years. Many travel to Grand Canyon National Park to partake in the many outdoor activities available at the Park, along with centralized amenities at the South Rim Grand Canyon Village. At the South Rim, travelers can find all that they need to make their Grand Canyon experience enjoyable, from comfortable lodgings, campgrounds, restaurants, gift shops, a post office, bank, and tour reservations. You will find everything you need at Grand Canyon Village and Market Plaza.

For those who like a more remote, less crowded experience, the North Rim provides a true look at the Grand Canyon before its tourism development. There is only one lodging with the Grand Canyon National Park at the North Rim, and one campground, though there are other campgrounds outside the Park's grounds.

Please note that the West Rim of the Park is not within National Park borders and belongs to the Hualapai Native American Reservation. Unescorted hiking is not permitted.

Those who plan to hike the Grand Canyon need to keep a number of things in mind. The hike to the bottom of the Canyon can be strenuous and lengthy. Leave twice as much time to get back as for going down. Backpacking trips should include adequate water and food. Water availability is variable. Temperatures vary widely, so prepare for extreme cold and extreme heat. Terrain can be rugged and challenging, and those afraid of heights should probably forego extended hikes. The National Park does not recommend attempting to hike from the rim to the river and back in one day. Hikers should be aware that the higher elevation may make hiking more physically difficult.

South Rim

Bright Angel Trail - This trail is steep, so you may want to avoid it in icy conditions. Some shaded areas. The trail begins at Bright Angel Lodge and runs 12 miles round-trip. Check at the Visitor Center or Backcountry Information Center for water availability along the way.

South Kaibab Trail - You can reach the trailhead by shuttle bus just south of Yaki Point. This trail offers the best views for the shortest hike. This is steep trail with little shade and no water available along the way. Icy seasonal conditions may make it inadvisable. Reviews by hikers of this trail indicate that care should be taken during the hottest parts of the day to avoid heat exhaustion and injury.

North Rim

Bright Angel Trail - 30 minutes approximate hiking time. The trail begins at the Visitor's Center parking lot. Self-guiding trail pamphlets are provided. A short walk offers a spectacular view of the Canyon.

North Kaibab Trail - Distances and hiking times vary. This is the only maintained trail from the North Rim into the Canyon. Just a short hike along the trail can afford an understanding of the immense size and amazing natural beauty of the Grand Canyon. This is a strenuous trail, however, and under no circumstances should you attempt to hike from the rim to the river in one day. Temperatures can be extreme.

Backcountry camping will require a permit from the Backcountry Information Center.

For additional information or a free Insider's Guide to the Grand Canyon visit: www.FreeGrandCanyonGuide.com