About
Length (round trip)9.4 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyStrenuous
Elevation gain3,050 ft up
Typical time6 hr 15 min
TrailheadNorth Kaibab Trailhead, North Rim
SurfaceNarrow dirt cut into cliffs, tunnels
Best seasonSouth Rim year round; March to May and September to November are best. The North Rim opens mid-May to mid-October.
DogsNot allowed
What you'll see 💧 Waterfall🌄 Big views🌊 River or creek🎒 Backpacking

The only maintained trail from the North Rim to the river. Common turnarounds: Coconino Overlook (1.4 miles round trip), Supai Tunnel (4 miles, 1,400 feet) and Roaring Springs (9.4 miles, 3,050 feet). The full descent to Bright Angel Campground is 14 miles one way.

Tips
Roaring Springs and beyond is a serious undertaking - the park treats it as a full day for fit hikers only. Always carry a way to filter creek water in case the Manzanita and Cottonwood stations are down. Expect temporary closures for repair work.
Location

North Kaibab Trailhead, North Rim

🎒 What to pack

This trail is set up for backpacking, so it's worth packing for a night out as well as the walk.

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Trail data: USGS National Map / PAD-US, the National Park Service, state agencies, and © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Access and conditions change — check with the managing agency before you go.