South Kaibab, Phantom Ranch, and Bright Angel Trail Loop

The late Fall turned out to be the perfect time to visit the Grand Canyon. You still run into a number of people tripping over rocks with selfie sticks, but we had no trouble finding peace and serenity on distant overlooks and throughout the trails.  We arrived around 4 pm on a Saturday after 21 hours of driving and a stop for a quick nap in Amarillo, TX. After taking in the incredible, sweepi...

This is a moderately challenging hike, relatively short (1.8 miles round trip), with absolutely incredible views. To access this hike you start at the South Kaibab Trailhead located on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Private vehicles are not allowed, you must access the trail via the park's shuttle bus that runs to Yaki Point on Yaki Point Road. Shuttles run quickly and efficiently and will ...

This run is an extreme adventure and requires lots of planning and training. The risk for injury or heat related illness is high, so take precautions and don't run alone. Group sizes of 12-30 require a $175 permit from the NPS. These trails are popular with runners, hikers, and backpackers; please be respectful on the trail. There are a few ways to run R2R2R, with the popular option being d...

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...

Note: The spot on the map is the beginning of the hike into Cremation Canyon Campground. For the full report on getting there, check out this adventure. Heading out of the campsite at Cremation Canyon, look for hints of a trail where you will scramble up, following other boot prints and cairns that lead the way. Head up through a saddle and look for Piano Alley (giant rocks that have rolled do...

The Grand Canyon is over 277 miles long and is full of unique geological formations in all sorts of colors. One of the most striking aspects of the Grand Canyon is its immense scale and the dynamic landscapes it has to offer. There's something about it that makes it extremely difficult to fully capture the scale of it all through photos. The Grand Canyon definitely cannot be fully appreciated w...