Line © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL), checked by Global Adventurer.
The hike
The trailhead is just west of Bright Angel Lodge and Kolb Studio in Grand Canyon Village. The trail zigzags down the canyon wall, through two short tunnels in the rock in the first mile, to Mile-and-a-Half Resthouse and on to Three-Mile Resthouse, which looks down on Havasupai Gardens and the inner canyon. Return the same way.
It is 6.5 miles (10.5 km) round trip with 2,060 feet (627 m) of climbing; allow about 5 hours. The grade is Moderate: the way down is easy going, but the climb back to the rim, near 7,000 feet, is steep and long.
Summer heat below the rim is dangerous: shade temperatures routinely pass 100°F (38°C), so in summer start early and avoid hiking from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The water taps at both resthouses are seasonal, from May to October, and can be shut off; on September 28, 2026, all water below the rim was off, so carry everything you need. Mules use this trail: step off on the uphill side and wait for them to pass.
Fill up and use the restrooms at the trailhead. Trailhead parking fills early; Lot D is a 5 to 10 minute walk away, or take the Village (Blue) shuttle to Hermit Road Interchange.
Route drawn by Global Adventurer along OpenStreetMap paths (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL), with figures worked out from it. Check the forecast and the ground on the day: paths change.
Good to know
- Starts beside the historic buildings of Grand Canyon Village
- Two tunnels through the rock in the first mile
- Summer heat below the rim is dangerous: go early and carry plenty of water
Getting there
Start: Bright Angel Trailhead. 36.05760, -112.14267
Places to stay nearby
Rooms in and around Grand Canyon: Booking.com → Expedia →
Affiliate links: if you book, Global Adventurer earns a small commission at no cost to you.
Paths change, and the weather decides the day. The line and figures come from OpenStreetMap and our own checks; take a map, check the forecast, and turn back if it isn't right.
