The first thing you learn when hiking in Grand Canyon is that, contrary to what you originally think, going up is easier than going down. Back country here is very different from other parks since you are often within sight of populated areas (but it can still be impossible to get there). All travel below the rim depends on water. Either where it is for drinking or how much there is for rafting. Almost all the trail traffic is on the 3 trails that meet at Phantom Ranch. -- Bright Angel Trail (The "easy" trail down, with Indian Gardens and rest houses in the upper part. Also the primary mule route to the bottom from the South at the Shuttle Transfer station) North Kaibab Trail, (After the initial steep drop to Roaring Springs, an easy walk along Bright Angel Creek.) and South Kaibab Trail (The "hard" trail down, with no camping, no water, and no shade.) Access is via the Hiker Express (early mornings only) or the Orange Shuttle.
Areas in the National Parks are managed as Wilderness based on the Wilderness Act 1964 PL 88-577 -- Areas where the earth and its community of life are untrammeled by man, where man himself is a visitor who does not remain. And areas managed to secure for the American people ... and future generations the benefits of an enduring resource of wilderness ... unimpaired for future use and enjoyment. The main trails in Grand Canyon have other rules from history and necessity (there are man-made structures, etc.)
Maintained by Keith Price.