Bright Angel Trail --> Plateau Point Trail, Grand Canyon NP, AZ

If you travel through the Southwest of the U.S. the Grand Canyon it is obvious that the Grand Canyon is a must-see. Most people just stop at some of the viewpoints along the rim. More time is needed to hike down into the canyon. It is worth doing!

In 1996 (August) my cousin and I chose to take the Bright Angel Trail to Plateau Point which is located directly above the Colorado river. This is the furthest recommended day hike from the South Rim (6 miles one way).

We started arround 6:00 in the morning with one gallon of water each. At this time temperatures were moderate and the trail offered some shade. The first mile of the trail following the Cinch-up-curve is the steepest part of the hike. No problem at this point of time, though. But a thought rushed into my mind: "The way up will probably be strenuous..." We passed the 1.5 mile rest house and the 3 mile rest house and took some time to take pictures (there is a nice spot nearby the second guest house). After that the trail becomes steeper again.
Some 3/4 mile ahead of Indian Gardens we entered the Tonto Plateau. From this point the path levels. It could be easy going but since the trail does not offer any shade beyond this point you should refill your bottles at Indian Gardens. Which we did.
After 4 hours of walking and resting we reached the designated target of our hike: Plateau Point. The viewpoint offers spectacular views of the Colorado river and the surrounding landscape. The great vista combined with a light breeze let us forget that the exhausting part of the hike was yet to come.
The way back was not strenuous. It was most strenuous because of the stifling heat. When we reached Indian Gardens again and stopped for another refill the thermometer read 108.0 °F. And still rising. To cut a long story short: It took us five hours (including several breaks) to reach the rim again.

Total elevation:
3100 feet (945 m)

Distance:
12.2 miles

Please note:
- you should be in fair hiking shape
- bring extra water ( I drank about 9 litersy!)