The Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the United States, located in the state of Arizona. It is a steep-sided canyon carved by the Colorado River in Arizona, United States. The canyon is 277 miles (446 kilometers) long, up to 18 miles (29 kilometers) wide, and reaches a depth of over a mile (6,093 feet or 1,857 meters).
Hiking from the South Rim to Phantom Ranch in the Grand Canyon is a popular and challenging adventure. Phantom Ranch is located at the bottom of the canyon along the Colorado River and is approximately 10 miles (16 kilometers) from the South Rim. There are two main trails that hikers can take to reach Phantom Ranch: the South Kaibab Trail and the Bright Angel Trail.
- South Kaibab Trail
– The South Kaibab Trail is a shorter but steeper route to Phantom Ranch. It offers stunning panoramic views of the canyon but has limited shade and water stations. The trailhead is located near Yaki Point on the South Rim.
– Hikers should be prepared for the steep descent and make sure to carry enough water, especially during the hot months. - Bright Angel Trail:
– The Bright Angel Trail is a bit longer than the South Kaibab Trail but offers more shade, water stations, and rest areas. It is a more gradual descent into the canyon.
– The trailhead is near the Bright Angel Lodge and is a popular choice for hikers due to its amenities and the availability of water and shade at Indian Garden, approximately halfway to Phantom Ranch.
We hiked down the steep South Kaibab 7.6 mile trail at the South Rim starting 5:30am in pitch darkness, reached the Colorado river around 10am, refueled at the Phantom Ranch, and started the hike back on the Bright Angel 9 mile trail to the South Rim at 10:30am. In the 85deg heat with no cloud cover and the sun on top of our heads, we climbed up the mountain, every mile conquered made us feel grateful that we had the tenacity to keep going.
The Grand Canyon is a monster. This hike to the belly of this beast and back was truly a challenge for the fittest, and we are glad we are stronger for it.
We were humbled by the monstrosity of the Grand Canyon and accomplishing this 16.6 mile hike in 12.15 hours was a great sense of achievement. The last 3 miles hiking up to the South Rim were a true testament of willpower, stamina and endurance. We were back at the rim at sunset and were happy that our mental and physical fitness had supported us throughout this journey.
Much Love
From the couples that hike together,
Nishi and Prafull.
