Pets allowed
Not Allowed
Elevation Gain
6,765.00 ft (2,061.97 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
18.00 mi (28.97 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The Tanner Trail is an 18-mile out-and-back trail that descends from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon to the Colorado River and back. This trail is remote, challenging and visually rewarding. Unlike the more popular access trails at Grand Canyon National Park, the Tanner Trail is much more remote and not as well-maintained. Visitors should be prepared with appropriate maps and adequate clothing. Some route finding may be necessary as well. 

On the Tanner Trail, you will get amazing views deep into the canyon as you traverse along a route that was once used by the Anasazi and Hopi tribes to access the Colorado River.  

The trail begins near the information sign at Lipan Point. The trail crosses the rim plateau and descends into Tanner Canyon. The Tanner Trail is rocky and narrow and considered to be one of the steepest trails in the Grand Canyon. 

WATER
All water found along the trail must be filtered. The Colorado River provides the only reliable water source, however, there may be seasonal water within Tanner Canyon.
More information can be found here: https://www.nps.gov/places/000/tanner-trail.htm

TRAVEL
The Tanner Trail is located 23 miles east of Grand Canyon Village. The Grand Canyon National Park shuttles do not extend as east as the Tanner Trailhead. However, parking is available at Lipan Point, located a short distance from the Tanner Trailhead.

CAMPING

Camping in the canyon is an amazing experience, however, overnight visits to the Grand Canyon require a backcountry permit.

Backcountry permit information: https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/fees.htm

 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

For more information visit: https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/upload/Tanner_Trail.pdf

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

National Park Pass

Open Year-round

Yes

Days

2

Pros

Solitude. Interesting Geology. Canyon Views.

Cons

Not well maintained. Steep.

Trailhead Elevation

7,340.00 ft (2,237.23 m)

Highest point

7,368.00 ft (2,245.77 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Geologically significant
Wildlife
Historically significant
Backcountry camping

Typically multi-day

Yes

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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