Phantom Ranch via the South Kaibab & Bright Angel Loop

There are many ways in and out of the Grand Canyon but the most popular loop is to descend from the South Rim, heading down the steeper South Kaibab Trail and returning up via the easier Bright Angel Trail.

Your adventure starts early to beat the sun (and get the views). After getting your permits (you'll need to book these well in advance, even a year ahead for peak season) at the backcountry office, take the hiker's express shuttle to the SK trailhead. Here you'll find restrooms and a final water fillup spot, the only one on the trail down.

Follow the SK trail for 7 miles as it cuts sharply through the canyon, passing layer upon layer of rock. As you descend pass Ooh-Aah Point and Cedar Ridge, be sure to look behind you to experience a truly unique view of the canyon. By the time you reach Skeleton Point, you'll feel like you've entered another world. Shortly after passing Tip Off Point, the river will come into clear view below you as you make your way down to the black bridge spanning it. Take in the last 0.5 miles of flat trail as you complete the hike down arriving at Bright Angel Campground or a little further into the canyon at Phantom Ranch.

Spend as long as you can get a spot or spare the time for at the bottom of the canyon exploring the river trails and up towards the North side (which is a world all it's own). Camp out or stay in the Phantom Ranch bunkhouse where you should be sure to grab at least one meal, lemonade and postcard on your visit.

Start your return hike before the sun has a chance to rise, heading through the Bright Angel campground, past the ranger buildings and off to the right. The Bright Angel Bridge will take you across the river which the trail follows for another mile before entering the canyon for good. As it snakes its way up, be sure to look around at the sun rising over the canyon walls. Stop off at the Indian Gardens hiker area to refill water and use the restroom (you can also camp here with reservations and make a multi-day return) before entering the second half of the hike.

As you continue up towards the 3 mile resthouse and then 1.5 mile resthouse, you'll be stopped by day hikers asking "how far you went" and "how it was," a testament to your adventure and a sign of how close you are. Pass through two stone archways and you're at the top of the South Rim once again. Enjoy a shower at Mather Campground or just skip right to the food at Bright Angel Lodge, the Canyon Village Marketplace and Deli or one of the other many restaurants.

Note: The National Park Service is highly against hiking to the river and back in a single day. Be reasonable in your plan, consider the distance, heat and impact of starting out downhill first!