Phantom Ranch, Grand Canyon National Park

Accessible only by mule, foot or boat, Phantom Ranch is a special haven alongside Bright Angel Creek on the north side of the Colorado River. The 1920's ranch is on the National Register of Historic Places. Located at the bottom of the canyon, Phantom Ranch is the only lodging available below the rim in Grand Canyon National Park.

Trails descending to the rustic ranch include the Bright Angel or Kaibab, both open 12 months a year. Those arriving at Phantom Ranch via a river trip will be on a multi-day excursion, as there are no one-day river trips through the Grand Canyon. Trips can last anywhere from three days to three weeks.

Designed by Mary E. J. Colter, the architect for the Santa Fe Railroad, and finished in 1922, the ranch is made of wood and native stone. The cabins and main lodge blend with the tremendous scenery.

The location of the ranch was once a site used by Native Americans for pit houses and religious ceremonies from as far back as 1050 Common Era.

Prospectors used the area in the 1890's and it wasn't until the turn of the century that the Grand Canyon became a tourist destination.

With the popularity of Phantom Ranch, advance reservations (up to 13 months) are recommended to ensure obtaining lodging. For those with more flexible schedules, there is a waiting list for rare cancellations.

The Phantom Ranch Canteen provides meals, beverages and a variety of other goods. Reservations for meals are required to be made before heading down the trail.