GRAND CANYON: HARD – South Kaibab to Tonto to Bright Angel - 13.2 m 3500'

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 will not be open, so I'm not going to go to river, just to South Kaibab to Tipoff to Havasupai Gardens up Bright Angel back to GC Village.

I am staying at Thunderbird the night before, so I'll catch the Hikers' Shuttle at Bright Angel at 6 am. If you're driving in the day of the hike, probably easier parking at Backcountry Info office (though extra steps once on top). I'll probably get a reservation for dining at El Tovar the night before. If interested, let me know, maybe we can coordinate.

Since we are not going below Tipoff/Gardens, doesn't look like we need a permit. So, I'll open up to more people. Please update your status.

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 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: If you wish to have camping/lodging in the Park or Tusayan, you should arrange that as soon as possible. There is camping outside the Park as well, just to the south for dispersed, dry camping. Although the photo shows a backpack, we are not camping in the Canyon.

Other Items:

The Shutdown may affect this trip. It certainly will not be as safe as a fully staffed Park Staff. I may cancel if I am not comfortable with logistics, weather, etc. Or, really, for any reason.

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 the hike and weather.

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.