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ExpertGround

Bright Angel Trail

Grand Canyon, Arizona · Coconino County

Bright Angel Trail is a expert hiking trail near Grand Canyon in Coconino County, Arizona.. The surface is ground. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

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36.05763, -112.14338
Open in OpenStreetMap
5-Day Forecast

Weather at Bright Angel Trail

Live forecast for the trailhead. Use it to pack and time your hike.

Avg High79°F
Avg Low51°F
Peak Rain Chance2%
Humidity21%
UV (avg)9
Air Quality64 · Moderate
Today
☁️
Overcast
70°/38°
🌬 12mph
5:13 AM7:38 PM
Sun
☀️
Clear
78°/52°
🌬 14mph
5:13 AM7:39 PM
Mon
☀️
Clear
80°/54°
🌬 19mph
5:12 AM7:40 PM
Tue
☁️
Overcast
83°/56°
💧 2%🌬 10mph
5:12 AM7:40 PM
Wed
☁️
Overcast
84°/57°
💧 2%🌬 11mph
5:12 AM7:41 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Bright Angel Trail

Bright Angel Trail is a expert hiking trail near Grand Canyon in Coconino County, Arizona.. The surface is ground. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

What “Expert” Means

Long backcountry routes (20+ miles), alpine grades, via ferrata, or extremely technical terrain. For experienced hikers with proper conditioning, navigation skills, and gear.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Moisture-wicking T-shirt
    Light color, breathable.
  • 🩳
    Lightweight shorts or pants
    Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
  • 🧢
    Brimmed sun hat
    Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners
    Breathable mesh uppers.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection (UV 9)
    SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
  • 🔦
    Headlamp + spare batteries
    Long days can run late — never rely on phone flashlight alone.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
  • Helmet (terrain-dependent)
    Expert routes may include scrambling or rockfall risk.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in Arizona

Trail conditions in Arizona change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

  • Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
  • Tell someone your plan and expected return time
  • Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
  • Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is Bright Angel Trail?

Bright Angel Trail is rated Expert. Alpine, exposed, or technically demanding. For experienced hikers only.

Are dogs allowed on Bright Angel Trail?

No — dogs are not permitted on this trail per OpenStreetMap data.

Can I ride a bike on Bright Angel Trail?

No — this trail is closed to bicycles.

Are horses allowed on Bright Angel Trail?

Yes — horseback riding is permitted (designated equestrian route).

What is the trail surface on Bright Angel Trail?

The surface is ground. Natural surface — sturdy footwear recommended; can be muddy after rain.

When is the best time to hike Bright Angel Trail?

Arizona has trail conditions that vary by season. High-elevation routes are typically best from late spring through early fall; expect snow at higher altitudes outside that window. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.