Bright Angel Trail

Overview

Bright Angel Trail is one of the most popular and historic hiking trails in Grand Canyon National Park, offering stunning views and a range of hiking experiences for all levels.

One of the most iconic trails in the Grand Canyon, providing access to the canyon's depths and breathtaking views.

Hiking Trail Scenic Viewpoint

Location

Address

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Neighborhood: South Rim

Coordinates

36.078700, -112.140100

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday Open 24 hours, visitor center 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday Open 24 hours, visitor center 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday Open 24 hours, visitor center 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday Open 24 hours, visitor center 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday Open 24 hours, visitor center 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday Open 24 hours, visitor center 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday Open 24 hours, visitor center 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$35 per vehicle (7-day pass)

Children

Free (ages 15 and under)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and better light for viewing and photography

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour (to 1.5-mile resthouse)

Recommended

3-4 hours (round trip to 1.5-mile resthouse)

Full Experience

Full day (hike to Plateau Point and back, 9.5 miles round trip)

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild to warm

• Wildflowers
• Lush greenery

summer

Hot (can exceed 100°F/38°C at the bottom)

• Extended daylight hours
• Junior Ranger programs

autumn

Cool to mild

• Fall colors
• Cooler temperatures

winter

Cold (can drop below freezing at night)

• Snow-covered landscapes
• Holiday events

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Plan ahead and prepare for extreme weather conditions
Carry plenty of water (at least 2 quarts per person for day hikes)
Check trail conditions and weather forecasts before starting

What to Bring

essential

Water Hiking shoes Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)

seasonal

Warm jacket (winter) Trekking poles (spring/fall) Cooling towel (summer)

not allowed

Drones (prohibited in most areas) Pets (not allowed on trails below the rim)

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate to high (depending on how far you hike)

• High elevation, risk of dehydration and heat exhaustion
• Steep and exposed trails
• Rapid weather changes

Medical facilities: First aid available at visitor centers, but distant from trail

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit/Debit Cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $35 per vehicle (7-day pass)

parking Free (except for private lots)

food $10-$20 per meal

souvenirs $5-$50

Dress Code

N/A, Comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes, layered clothing, sun protection, Sturdy hiking shoes or boots, Inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• Not required, but plan ahead for lodging and shuttles
• National Park Service website
• Varies by service
• No lines, but arrive early for parking

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Grand Canyon NPS App

Size: 100 MB

Features: Trail maps, Park information, Event schedules, Audio tours

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor centers, lodges, and some campgrounds

Charging Stations: Visitor centers and some lodges

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG)

Distance: 80 miles (129 km)

Travel Time: 2 hours

taxi

$150-$200 2 hours

public_transport

$20-$30 3 hours

From City Center

Distance: Varies by city (Flagstaff is the nearest major city)

car

Gas and parking fees 2 hours from Flagstaff

bus

$20-$30 3 hours from Flagstaff

taxi

$150-$200 2 hours

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Stunning natural beauty, sense of adventure, rich history

Historical Significance: One of the oldest and most well-known trails in the Grand Canyon, used by indigenous peoples for centuries, developed by early park settlers

Insider Tips

Start your hike early to avoid crowds and heat
The best views are often from the 1.5-mile resthouse or Plateau Point
Check with rangers for current trail conditions and closures

Local Recommendations

• Try the historic Bright Angel Lodge for a bite to eat
• Ask rangers for updated trail conditions and wildlife sightings
• Visit the Grand Canyon Visitor Center for exhibits and information

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French, German

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

1.5-mile resthouse

Best Time: Sunrise or late afternoon

Tips: Capture the trail winding into the distance with the canyon walls on either side

Result: Epic canyon views

#GrandCanyon #BrightAngelTrail #Hiking

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas, trails, and viewpoints

prohibited areas Inside buildings and exhibits (no photography without permission)

flash photography Allowed, but avoid disturbing others

commercial photography Permit required for commercial shoots

drone policy Prohibited in most areas without a special use permit

tripod policy Allowed, but avoid obstructing trails and viewpoints

selfie sticks Allowed, but be mindful of others

Nearby Attractions

Grand Canyon Village

Distance: 0.5 miles (0.8 km)

Walking: 10 minutes

Type: Historic District

South Rim Visitor Center

Distance: 0.25 miles (0.4 km)

Walking: 5 minutes

Type: Visitor Center

Mather Point

Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km)

Walking: 20 minutes

Type: Scenic Viewpoint

Reviews

4.8

Based on 2,500 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Start early to avoid crowds and heat"
"Bring plenty of water and snacks"
"Wear sturdy shoes and dress in layers"
"Check trail conditions and weather forecasts before starting"
"Respect wildlife and stay on marked trails"

Contact Information

+1 (928) 638-7888

grca_information@nps.gov

www.nps.gov/grca/index.htm

Social Media

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