The trail here is perfectly safe and is generally open the year round.
In midwinter it is liable to be closed for a few days at the top by
snow, but such blockade is only temporary. It reaches from the hotel
four miles to the top of the granite wall immediately overlooking the
Colorado River. At this point the river is 1,200 feet below, while the
hotel on the rim is 4,300 feet above. The trip is commonly made on
horseback, accompanied by a guide; charges for trail stock and services
of guide are moderate. A strong person, accustomed to mountain climbing,
can make the round trip on foot in one day, by starting early enough;
but the average traveler will soon discover that a horse is a necessity,
especially for the upward climb.
Eight hours are required for going down and coming back, allowing two
hours for lunch, rest, and sight-seeing. Those wishing to reach the
river leave the main trail at Indian Garden Spring and follow the
downward course of Willow and Pipe creeks. Owing to the abrupt descent
from this point, part of the side trail must be traversed on foot.
Provision is made for those wishing to camp out at night on the river’s
edge.
The famous guide, John Hance, is now located at Bright Angel.