GRAND CANYON: HARD – South Kaibab to [Tonto or River Trail] to Bright Angel

Date & Time: November 22, 2025 (Saturday) @ 6:00 a.m.

Location: Backcountry Information Center (Grand Canyon National Park – South Rim). Hiker’s Shuttle to South Kaibab (leaves 6:00 am from Bright Angel, then shortly thereafter from Backcountry Information Center (far more parking at Backcountry lot). 36.05297013159467, -112.1438628914742

Hike Details: So, let’s day hike GC. The River Trail is supposed to open by then. Either of these trails is nothing to scoff at, though. It can be chilly in the Canyon in November, there can be snow, you may need microspikes and/or poles. We’ll decide as we get closer.

South Kaibab to River Trail to Bright Angel is about 16.2 miles and 4800’ elevation gain. Alltrails: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/gc-sk-2-river-2-ba-b5b7696?u=i&sh=yp9mav

South Kaibab to Tonto to Bright Angel is about 13.2 miles and 3500’ gain. Alltrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/arizona/south-kaibab-tonto-and-bright-angel-trail

Lodging/Camping: I’m planning to camp Friday night, probably Saturday night as well. However, if I can get a suite at Tovar, I probably will do that. Although the photo shows a backpack, we are not camping in the Canyon.

Other Items:

This is not suitable if this is your first GC hike. There is no water on the South Kaibab. Given the way things are these days, there may not be water on Bright Angel. As a Ranger told us last time I camped in the Canyon in November, the Canyon teaches hard lessons.

Do not underestimate either of these hikes.

This hike may be cancelled or re-scheduled depending on weather.

Group Size: Non-commercial extended day hikes do not need a Special Use Permit if fewer than 12 people. I am using a wait list. I reserve the right to move anyone to “Not Going”.

Understandings: None of the Organizers or Hosts are professional guides and none are being paid. They will not be held responsible for you. Each person who signs up for and/or participates in this event is responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guests. Furthermore, hiking in Arizona has the obvious risks including, but not limited to: dehydration; over exposure to sun; poisonous snakes & reptiles; rabid animals; broken bones; stampeding livestock; stampeding electric bicycles; etc. You are assuming the risk of participating in the great outdoors. You agree not to hold the trip Planners, Leaders, Hosts, and/or Organizers responsible if you get injured. By attending you agree with these shared understandings.