Bright Angel Trailhead Tours and Activities

Bright Angel Trailhead showing tranquil scenes and a gorge or canyon
Bright Angel Trailhead featuring tranquil scenes and a gorge or canyon
Bright Angel Trailhead
Bright Angel Trailhead
Bright Angel Trailhead


See jagged cliffs, flowing creeks, sandstone tunnels, native gardens and desert vegetation when hiking this Grand Canyon South Rim trail.

Bright Angel Trail is a long-distance hiking trail beginning at Grand Canyon Village. The well-maintained trail features extraordinary views of the region’s sandstone canyons and rugged landscape. Plan to hike sections of Bright Angel Trail in a day or stay in one of two camping sites along the track.

Begin your journey at the South Rim’s Grand Canyon Village. The trail then follows the course of Garden Creek, toward the Colorado River. On the first leg of the trail you will pass through two impressive sandstone tunnels. After the second tunnel the walk begins to get steeper. Take a short break at a rest house located 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) into the hike.

Indian Garden is about 4.5 miles (7 kilometers) from the beginning of the trail. With water and picnic tables, the garden is a great place to stop for lunch. Indian Garden covers a section of Garden Creek and features tall cottonwoods and other native plants. If you’re hiking a summer daytrip, the National Park Service highly recommends you turn back after resting at the garden.

From Indian Garden, take the 1.5-mile (2.4-kilometer) Plateau Point trail for striking views of the Colorado River. Indian Garden also features a continuation of Bright Angel Trail, leading toward Phantom Ranch and Bright Angel Campground at the bottom of the canyon. The main trail also features views of the Colorado River and beautiful cotton-tree-lined areas.

Water is available at the covered rest houses and at Indian Garden however, packing extra water is advised. The region is known for its extreme temperatures, so wear suitable hiking footwear and comfortable clothing. Before you embark on your hike, pick up a National Park Service backcountry permit, which is required for camping in the Inner Canyon campgrounds. Find the beginning of the trail at Grand Canyon Village, about 80 miles (130 kilometers) from Flagstaff, Arizona.

Bright Angel Trail has been designed with visitor safety in mind however, pack supplies and plan your journey appropriately to ensure an enjoyable and safe hike.

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Best Lodging Options Near Bright Angel Trailhead

Maswik Lodge - Inside the Park

Maswik Lodge - Inside the Park

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El Tovar - Inside the Park

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Bright Angel Lodge – Inside the Park

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Thunderbird Lodge - Inside the Park

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Thunderbird Lodge - Inside the Park
Kachina Lodge - Inside the Park

Kachina Lodge - Inside the Park

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Red Feather Lodge

Red Feather Lodge

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Red Feather Lodge
The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

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Holiday Inn Resort The Squire at Grand Canyon by IHG

Holiday Inn Resort The Squire at Grand Canyon by IHG

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Bright Angel Trailhead

At Bright Angel Trailhead in Grand Canyon Village, visitors can enjoy popular activities like hiking the renowned Bright Angel Trail, which caters to various skill levels. Don't miss the stunning sunsets that paint the canyon in vibrant colours. For a unique perspective, consider taking an airplane tour to explore the breathtaking attractions nearby. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely walk or an adventurous trek, there's something for everyone at this iconic destination.

Shopping

At Bright Angel Trailhead, visit Kolb Studio, a charming store located 50m away, offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, consider exploring Grand Canyon Village's shops, where you can find a wider selection of local crafts and memorabilia.

Recreation

At Point Imperial, 29.0km from Bright Angel Trailhead, you can immerse yourself in nature's tranquility. Enjoy breathtaking views while engaging in yoga sessions or meditation. The serene atmosphere fosters relaxation, making it an ideal spot for rejuvenation amidst the stunning Grand Canyon landscape.

Adventure

Embark on an exhilarating hike along the South Kaibab Trailhead, located 4.8km from Bright Angel Trailhead, where you'll be immersed in stunning scenery. Alternatively, explore the South Bass Trail, 1.6km away, or the Tonto Trail, 3.2km away, both offering breathtaking views and adventurous vibes.

Find the best attractions near Bright Angel Trailhead

At Bright Angel Trailhead in Grand Canyon Village, outdoor enthusiasts can explore a variety of attractions, including visitor centres and historic buildings. The area is perfect for those seeking adventure and cultural experiences, with the iconic Bright Angel Trail offering breathtaking views and hiking opportunities. Don't miss the chance to delve into the stunning landscapes of Bright Angel Canyon, making your visit an unforgettable journey into nature's grandeur.

  • Grand Canyon National Park Superintendent's Residence: Located 805m from Bright Angel Trailhead, this modern civic government building offers a unique glimpse into the administrative heart of the park, blending functionality with stunning views.
  • Hopi House: A mere 644m away, this historic building showcases the rich culture of the Hopi people through traditional crafts and art, providing a deep connection to Indigenous heritage and artistry.
  • Grand Canyon Backcountry Information Center: Situated 483m from the trailhead, this visitor centre is your gateway to outdoor adventures, offering resources for families and adventurers alike looking to explore the park’s vast backcountry.

Best time to go to Bright Angel Trailhead

Visitor numbers around Bright Angel Trailhead is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Bright Angel Trailhead can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Bright Angel Trailhead falls in July, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Bright Angel Trailhead falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January32.7°F (0.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February35.2°F (1.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March42.6°F (5.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
April50.9°F (10.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
May59.2°F (15.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
June71.2°F (21.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
July75.2°F (24.0°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
August73.0°F (22.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
September66.7°F (19.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October54.1°F (12.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
November42.8°F (6.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
December33.4°F (0.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Bright Angel Trailhead

To save on your visit to Bright Angel Trailhead, consider travelling during the off-peak months of January to February and November for lower accommodation prices. Book your hotel about a month in advance, or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Sundays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Explore free activities at nearby sites like South Kaibab Trailhead and Hopi Point. Use Expedia’s search tools to filter for budget-friendly options and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Bright Angel Trailhead are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to June, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Bright Angel Trailhead is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Bright Angel Trailhead is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Bright Angel Trailhead is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type—if you check the "Eco-certified" filter, you'll be presented with sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels ready for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy some savings by combining your hotel reservation at Bright Angel Trailhead with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.