Anybody hike the Bright Angel Trail?

“I am in the planning stages of doing a hike in the Grand Canyon with an old friend (mid to late March). Is this a good time? Are permits hard to get for then? I figure there is no way to get a Phantom Ranch reservation this close to the date. We may just dayhike if necessary, and stay in the Bright Angel lodge. Info would be much appreciated.”

“are you planning on a backpacking or dayhiking trip? permits for march started flying out the door in november, pickings may be slim. you might have a little better luck with april. this is not something you should wait til less than 2 months away and start planning. permits are not needed for dayhiking”

“You might be able to get permits for the campgrounds (Indian Gardens & Phantom Ranch). The backcountry permits are harder to get. Go for it - you'll always be happy to say you camped in the Grand Canyon.”

“maryphyl hasn't been around in ages. Hope she is well. One of our local experts. Another Zoner, Shawn hangs around, keep this in view and he'll see it.”

“It will be difficult to get a permit for Bright Angel or Indian Garden, but not impossible, especially if you want mid-week and can be flexible about dates.
Also, they do leave a certain number of campsites open at BI and IG for walkup people. You might want to call Backcountry Info Center for information on that. (928-638-7875 between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m M-F)
A day hike to Plateau Point is a good alternative. Or a hike along the Rim Trail.
Phantom Ranch cabins and bunks are sometimes available due to last-minute cancellations, too. (Xanterra Parks and Resorts 888-297-2757)
A lot of information here: http://www.nps.gov/grca/backcountry/permit_procedures.htm”

“Cindy where have you been? Haven't seen you here in a long long time. Hope you're having fun!”

“I post here and there...
Having fun ALWAYS.”

“Thanks for the info. I realized early on that you have to plan a hike way in advance for the area. I am taking a couple of months off on sick leave (retiring soon) and thought I'd hook up with an old bud and do the canyon thing. We had originally thought of an October date, but Phantom Ranch was full then too. We will try to get a slot at the office and that failing, will dayhike, which is cool too. Ironically, Xanterra had a mule ride with the overnighter at the ranch for around $650. My friend, Ron, has never even been to the canyon, so it will be a treat for him just to see it. We are gonna roadtrip for a week or so round the West, maybe scoot up to Moab, or take in the decadence at Vegas. This is just a warm up trip this year. If all goes to plan, late this year, I am gonna do a volcano trip in Central America and then go to Patagonia to hike, bike and raft for a month or so.”

“The hike down South Kaibab Trail is nicer than Bright Angel - you get better views. It's a bit steeper, but still not bad. If you only dayhike, you can go down a few miles to the point and then turn around and hike back. Unless you get really ambitious and do the 16 mile/5000' climb S. Kaibab to Phantom Ranch to Bright Angel Trail. It's doable if you're really fit, but exhausting.

You might be surprised and get reservations at Phantom Ranch or the campground. March isn't that popular a time to visit, as there is a good possibility of snow and ice at the rim.”

“Walk up permits can be had as mentioned, for best options find out when the BCO opens (8am?) and line up about 1hr before then. Permits for weekdays will be more easily had than weekends, you might also score a last minute cancellation.

Also be willing to consider alternatives to the BA or SKaibab. Rangers at the BCO can suggest and will advise based on GC experience and overall backpacking experience.

March is a good time, generally warm in the inner canyon, cold at the rim, and usually well after the last rain/snow so the trails are for the most part ice free (or will be this year since we've had minimal rain/snow).”