My family (includes an 11 and 14 yr. old) would like to hike to the bottom of the Grand Canyon first of April and maybe stay in one of the cottages for a night. Would we need to bring sleeping bags, etc. or is that available at Phantom Ranch? I know we are quite capable of walking down, but is there an alternative to walking up, like ride a mule? My daughter is afraid of rapids, so there will be no rafting out.

Wow, what an adventure! The hike to Phantom Ranch is an experience of a lifetime. But it is not an easy one. The hike down is 7 miles, and relatively easy, although the trail can be dusty. The hike up is an entirely different matter. The return is 7 miles via the South Kaibab Trail and 10 miles via the Bright Angel Trail. Both are a vertical climb of 1 mile! If you are not in EXCELLENT physical condition, do NOT attempt this hike.

OK, let's assume you are in shape. To stay at Phantom Ranch you MUST have reservations for both accommodations and for meals, unless you carry your own food down. There are three types of accommodations: cabins, $140/night for 2 people; dorm rooms, separated by sex, $21/night per person; and campsites, $20 permit plus $4/night per person. These prices do not include meals.

Cabins have two bunk-beds (bedding provided) and a toilet, central showers are available; the dorms (bedding provided) each have their own toilet and showers; the campground has toilets only.

Reservations for Phantom Ranch are handled by:

Xanterra Parks and Resorts
303-338-6000 FAX 303-338-2045
14001 East Illiff, Suite 600, Aurora, CO 80014

Reservation Information

Now, the alternative to hiking out is to ride out by mule. The mules to Phantom Ranch are housed on the South Rim, so to supply you with a mule ride out means they would have to bring rider-less mules down to accommodate you. The mules aren't cheap, but you may reconsider and ride them down too. Also, the mule rides come in a package deal that includes lodging and meals.

Here are some Web sites to review for more info:

Grand Canyon Home Page

Phantom Ranch

Mule Rides

Bright Angel Campground (at Phantom Ranch)

And, if you haven't seen them already, here is a photo tour of a Grand Canyon Hike I made down the Kaibab Trail to Phantom Ranch and then back up the Bright Angel.

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To review:

1. To hike the canyon you MUST be in top shape, otherwise take the mules.

2. Make reservations ASAP!

3. Prepare for the trip by walking, walking, walking.

4. You, and only you, are responsible for getting yourself out of the Canyon. Helicopter rescues are very expensive. There are no paramedics in the Canyon. This is real wilderness. Be prepared!

OK, are you ready? Now go do it! Safe travels!

(rates and reservation info as of January, 2001)