Photo by Whit Richardson
1.Hermit Trail to Santa Maria Spring
A perfect way to stretch your legs after riding the park shuttle to Hermits Rest (page 12), this
2.5-mile hike down the Hermit Trail leads to the mini-oasis of Santa Maria Spring. Bear right at the junction with the Waldron Trail and veer right again at the Santa Maria sign to reach the spring.
2. Bright Angel to Indian Garden
This 4.8-mile trek (one way) is a full-day adventure with a shaded picnic area and creek at Indian Garden (page 18), and canyon views from Bright Angel Trail, the park’s most popular hiking path. Total elevation gain and loss of this hike is 6,000 feet and requires a high fitness level.
3. South Kaibab to Cedar Ridge
If you want a moderate hike on a maintained trail but would prefer to avoid the traffic on Bright Angel, trek 1.4 miles down the South Kaibab (page 18) to the scenic precipice of Cedar Ridge. The sprawling view from here includes the twisting path of the Bright Angel Trail as it descends into the canyon’s inner gorge through a section called the Devil’s Corkscrew.
4. Horseshoe Mesa
A steep 3.5 miles down the Grandview Trail gets you to the top of the Horseshoe Mesa and rooftop views; see the Grandview Trail description on page 43. Explore Cave of the Domes (ask ranger for location) and relax on the smooth slickrock with a picnic lunch. See our map on page 16.
An essential hike for those with a layover day at Phantom Ranch or Bright Angel campground, this trail leads 8.7 miles (one way) to Clear Creek. If you want to make an overnight trip of it, hike another 5 miles to Cheyava Falls. The trailhead is .25 mile north of Phantom Ranch on the North Kaibab Trail.
