Hike the Bright Angel trail in Grand Canyon national park, Arizona
This is a well hiked and well maintained trail in the Grand Canyon. Bring a camera, as the views are always impressive. There is lots of water on this hike: At 1.5 mile (from the top) rest house, 3 mile (from the top) rest house, Indian Gardens, and Bright Angel Campground. There are also bathrooms at the 1.5 mile rest house and Indian Gardens. If you enjoy this hike, you might want to try the South Kaibab trail next.
This is the most popular trail to get to the bottom of the Grand Canyon. It's a steep descent from the top to Indian Gardens. The crowds will thin out significantly after three miles in.
Indian Gardens is the half way point of this hike and is a good spot to camp if you want to break your ascent into two days.
If you have time, you can walk the one way 1.5 miles from Indian Garden to Plateau Point for a killer view of the river.
From Indian Gardens, the trail winds through Garden creek canyon, down Pipe springs canyon, to the Colorado river. Crossing the suspension bridge (Silver Bridge) will get you to Bright Angel Campground.
We have to share this hike with mules. When a mule train approaches, move to the side and wait for them to pass. Wave to the nice guides and sore bottomed people as they admire your amazing stamina in hiking the Grand Canyon.
Spend a few days in the canyon before climbing back out. You'll be glad you did.
Be sure to enjoy the looks of awe from the dressed up tourists taking a few tentative steps on the trail...
Tourist: (walking at the top of the rim) "Where did you start hiking?"
You: "At the river"
Tourist: (expression of amazement and awe) "wow..."
