How to Hike the Bright Angel Trail

Easy Bright Angel Trail directions to 1.5 Mile Resthouse, 3 Mile Resthouse, Havasupai Garden, and Plateau Point.
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The Bright Angel Trail is the most popular hike on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, and in this guide, I walk you through every option so you can choose the adventure that’s right for you. Whether you’re aiming for the 1.5 Mile Resthouse, the 3 Mile Resthouse, Havasupai Garden, or the epic views from Plateau Point, I cover the details you need to know—distances, water stops, shade, bathrooms, and what to expect on the climb back up.

Starting from the Bright Angel Trailhead near Bright Angel Lodge, you’ll drop quickly into the canyon, passing through historic tunnels and catching glimpses of mule deer, bighorn sheep, and the massive Bright Angel Fault. I point out easy-to-miss features like ancient pictographs, CCC-built stone resthouses from the 1930s, and reliable (but seasonal) water fills. If you’re stopping early, I show you exactly where to turn back to make your hike safe and manageable.
For those going deeper, you’ll tackle switchbacks like Jacob’s Ladder before arriving at

Havasupai Garden—a lush oasis with water, shade, and backcountry camping. I’ll explain how to get a camping permit, where to refill, and why this is the recommended turnaround for most day hikers. But if you’re feeling strong, continuing on to Plateau Point rewards you with one of the best panoramic views of the Colorado River in the park.

The return climb is where the challenge begins, with 3,200 feet of gain if you go all the way to Plateau Point. I share tips for pacing yourself, finding shade, and avoiding heat dangers that can turn a great day into an emergency. Hiking early in the morning is key—you’ll dodge the crowds, keep cooler, and enjoy one of the most rewarding day hikes in the Grand Canyon.


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