Trekking a Three-Mile Rest Stop Along the Bright Angel Trail
For those looking to explore the Grand Canyon on foot, the Bright Angel Trail is a popular choice. This corridor trail, which has been in use for over a century, leads hikers to the 3 Mile Resthouse, located 6 miles from the trailhead with a climb of approximately 2,100 feet.
Preparation is key for a successful hike. Here are some tips to help you prepare:
Gear Recommendations
- Carry plenty of water or refill at the water stations available seasonally (May to October) at 1.5, 3, and 4.5 miles along the trail.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support due to the rocky terrain and elevation gains.
- Bring sun protection such as a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses; parts of the trail are exposed despite some shaded rest stops.
- Dress in layers to adapt to temperature changes—cooler at the rim (~7,000 ft) and warmer lower down.
- Trekking poles are helpful for support on elevation gain hiking back up.
- Snacks or light food are recommended for energy, especially for the uphill segments returning to the rim.
Fitness Level
The fitness requirements for hiking the Bright Angel Trail to the 3 Mile Resthouse are moderate to high. The trail is about 6 miles one way to the resthouse, with a significant elevation gain of around 2,100 feet when hiking from the rim to the 3 Mile Resthouse. Hiking down is easier, but the return involves continuous uphill climbing that challenges cardiovascular and leg strength. Hiking times vary by fitness level, but expect a few hours for the round trip or longer when ascending. Start early to beat the heat and conserve energy.
Parking and Access
The trailhead is located 2.4 miles west of the Grand Canyon Visitor Center at the South Rim. Free shuttle buses (Village Blue Route) connect the Visitor Center shuttle bus terminal to Bright Angel Trailhead during the summer season (end of May through early September), running frequently early morning to late evening. The shuttle is the recommended way to reach the trailhead during shuttle season, as parking at the trailhead is limited. Otherwise, parking near the Grand Canyon Visitor Center is available, but the hike to the trailhead may add distance.
Additional Tips
- The Bright Angel Trail can be crowded, so start early to avoid congestion.
- Respect hiking etiquette: hikers going uphill have the right of way.
- Rest stops with water and shade such as Mile-and-a-Half and Three-Mile Resthouse provide good points to take breaks.
- Be aware of weather conditions and avoid hiking during the hottest parts of the day to reduce heat exhaustion risk.
These recommendations are based on multiple recent sources emphasizing trail features, difficulty, water availability, shuttle services, and elevation profiles for a safe and enjoyable hike to Three-Mile Resthouse from the South Rim on the Bright Angel Trail [1][2][3][5].
[1] National Park Service. (2021). Bright Angel Trail. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/bright-angel-trail.htm [2] Grand Canyon Hiking. (2021). Bright Angel Trail. Retrieved from https://www.grandcanyonhiking.com/bright-angel-trail/ [3] AllTrails. (2021). Bright Angel Trail. Retrieved from https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/arizona/bright-angel-trail [5] Grand Canyon Backcountry. (2021). Indian Garden Campground and 3-Mile Resthouse. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/indian-garden-campground-and-3-mile-resthouse.htm
- It's crucial to have the right gear for hiking the Bright Angel Trail, including sturdy hiking boots, sun protection, trekking poles, water, and snacks.
- The fitness level required for hiking to the 3 Mile Resthouse is moderate to high, with an approximate 6-mile trek and a 2,100-foot elevation gain from the rim.
- The trailhead is located 2.4 miles west of the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, and the shuttle service is the recommended way to reach it during the summer season due to limited parking at the trailhead.
- To avoid congestion, start early on the trail and be mindful of hiking etiquette, giving way to hikers going uphill.
- Rest stops with water and shade are available at several points along the trail, making it easier to take breaks and hydrate.
- Before setting out, research the trail online using maps and sites like the National Park Service, Grand Canyon Hiking, AllTrails, and Grand Canyon Backcountry for safety and enjoyment information.
