Bright Angel Trail to 3 Mile Resthouse
A demanding half-day descent to the 3 Mile Resthouse with a long switchback climb back to the rim.
Route overview
Descend to 3 Mile Resthouse and retrace the full Bright Angel corridor to the rim.
Continuing to 3 Mile Resthouse doubles the commitment of the introductory Bright Angel hike. The route remains maintained and obvious but loses substantial elevation through exposed canyon layers. Seasonal water cannot be assumed, and hikers need enough time, food and energy for the sustained return climb.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- South Rim, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
- Distance
- 9.7 km round trip
- Typical duration
- 4–6 hours
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Elevation gain
- approximately 640 m on return
- Best season
- Spring and autumn; avoid hot summer afternoons
- Trail type
- Out and back
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No for ordinary day hiking
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Heat illness, fatigue, hyponatremia, mule traffic, winter ice and delayed ascent
Highlights
Upper Bright Angel Canyon, extensive switchbacks, broad inner-canyon views
Why find a buddy
High value for pace control, symptom monitoring and ensuring the group climbs out together.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.