Ribbon Falls
Discover Ribbon Falls, a breathtaking moss-covered waterfall and cool grotto, an unforgettable oasis on a challenging Grand Canyon hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Ribbon Falls
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Ribbon Falls, a breathtaking moss-covered waterfall and cool grotto, an unforgettable oasis on a challenging Grand Canyon hike.
"It brought a deep sense of peace, almost spiritual, and stood out as one of the most powerful moments of the entire hike."
Cross the Creek Wisely
The creek is often knee-deep and easy to cross. Look for the 'via creek' sign to turn off the main trail.
Hydrate and Fuel Up
This is a strenuous hike. Carry plenty of water and high-energy snacks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ribbon Falls Waterfall
North Kaibab Trail
A unique, moss-covered waterfall cascading into a cool, shaded grotto. An oasis in the desert!
Shaded Grotto Oasis
Base of Ribbon Falls
Experience a sacred, peaceful space with lush moss and the soothing sound of water.
Bright Angel Creek
Along the trail
Hike alongside this vibrant creek, offering a different, greener landscape than other canyon trails.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tackle the Ribbon Falls Trail
Timing is Everything for Ribbon Falls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ribbon Falls??
Cross the Creek Wisely
The creek is often knee-deep and easy to cross. Look for the 'via creek' sign to turn off the main trail.
Hydrate and Fuel Up
This is a strenuous hike. Carry plenty of water and high-energy snacks.
Ribbon falls hike
Ribbon Falls
Leave No Trace
Pack out everything you pack in to preserve this beautiful natural wonder.
Consider a Day Trip
If staying at Phantom Ranch, a 12-mile round trip to Ribbon Falls is manageable.
SK to Ribbon Falls?
Tips
from all over the internet
Cross the Creek Wisely
The creek is often knee-deep and easy to cross. Look for the 'via creek' sign to turn off the main trail.
Hydrate and Fuel Up
This is a strenuous hike. Carry plenty of water and high-energy snacks.
Leave No Trace
Pack out everything you pack in to preserve this beautiful natural wonder.
Consider a Day Trip
If staying at Phantom Ranch, a 12-mile round trip to Ribbon Falls is manageable.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ribbon Falls is hailed as a magical oasis and a highlight of Grand Canyon hikes, offering a unique, cool respite with its moss-covered waterfall and serene grotto. Visitors are awestruck by its beauty and the spiritual peace it provides, making the strenuous trek undeniably worth it. However, the demanding nature of the hike and the need for careful planning are frequently mentioned.
"Amazing ancient waters flowing through the beautiful Grand Canyon. This stop is so worth it, you get rewarded for making the trek and cool off in this ancient bath where the water is very cool. Highly recommend crossing the creek and making your way up to the waterfall, it’s an amazing adventure."
jamie foster
"I visited Ribbon Falls in June 2023 during a North Rim to South Rim hike with a group of six. The weather was brutally hot, and reaching the falls felt like discovering a miracle in the desert. The water was ice-cold—a shock to the system in the best way—and instantly refreshing after miles of heat and dust.
Stepping into the shaded grotto beneath the falls, everything felt still. The lush moss, the sound of water cascading down, and the cool mist created a space that felt sacred—like something out of another world. It truly felt like God’s creation on full display, and I was left in awe. It brought a deep sense of peace, almost spiritual, and stood out as one of the most powerful moments of the entire hike.
Ribbon Falls wasn’t just a rest stop—it was an experience. In the middle of a tough and unforgettable rim-to-rim journey, this little oasis reminded me of the beauty and wonder that still exists untouched."
Aditya Bheemavarapu
"Beautiful waterfall, very unique in its appearance.
It’s a 12 mile round trip hike from Bright Angel campground and approximately 13 mile trip one way via South Kaibab trail.
I would recommend to make it a day trip for hikers who are already staying a night at the bottom of a Canyon since one day round trip of 26 miles with an elevation gain of almost 5000 ft is extremely exhausting for an average hiker like myself.
We made it within 6 hours and the trail from BA campground is relatively flat in its length.
There is no ridge, so as soon as you see the sing “via creek”, take that turn.
Creek water ok knee deep and easy to cross.
Once you are there, it’s quite magical!
Enjoy and please leave no trace!!"
Tatiana
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ribbon Falls is accessed via the North Kaibab Trail. The most common approach for a day trip is from the Bright Angel Campground or Phantom Ranch, making it a 12-mile round trip. Alternatively, it can be part of a longer rim-to-rim hike.
Yes, the Ribbon Falls trail is considered strenuous. It involves significant elevation gain and distance, especially if attempting a round trip from the canyon floor. Proper preparation is crucial.
While technically possible, a one-day round trip from the South Rim to Ribbon Falls (approximately 26 miles with nearly 5000 ft elevation gain) is extremely exhausting and not recommended for average hikers.
If you're not doing a full rim-to-rim hike, the most practical access is by staying at Bright Angel Campground or Phantom Ranch. From there, it's a 12-mile round trip hike to Ribbon Falls along the North Kaibab Trail.
There are no direct shuttle services to the Ribbon Falls trailhead itself. Access to the trailheads for the North Kaibab Trail (like the one near the North Rim) or the Bright Angel Campground requires utilizing the Grand Canyon shuttle system or personal transportation to the respective rim or lodging areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While day hiking to Ribbon Falls does not require a permit, overnight stays at campgrounds like Bright Angel Campground or lodging at Phantom Ranch do require backcountry permits or reservations, which can be very competitive.
Ribbon Falls is a natural attraction within Grand Canyon National Park and is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, hiking during daylight hours is strongly recommended for safety.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Grand Canyon National Park. This fee is per vehicle and is valid for seven days.
While the water at Ribbon Falls is very cold and refreshing, swimming is generally not advised due to the powerful currents and potential hazards. Enjoy the cool mist and the experience of being near the water.
There are no developed facilities directly at Ribbon Falls. You'll need to carry all your supplies, including water and food, and pack out all trash.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Ribbon Falls is a beautiful, unique waterfall known for its moss-covered rock face and the cool, shaded grotto it creates. The water is icy cold and incredibly refreshing after a hike.
Wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction. Layers are recommended as temperatures can vary. Bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, and consider quick-drying clothing.
Cell service is extremely limited to non-existent in most areas of the Grand Canyon, including the trail to Ribbon Falls. Do not rely on your phone for communication.
You might encounter various desert wildlife, including lizards, squirrels, and birds. Keep a safe distance and never feed the animals.
A 12-mile round trip from Bright Angel Campground can take approximately 6 hours for a fit hiker. Factor in more time for breaks and enjoying the falls.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique moss-covered waterfall, the serene grotto, and the surrounding lush vegetation. The interplay of light and shadow in the grotto can be stunning.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the falls and grotto. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections and enhance colors. Consider a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions in the grotto.
The lighting in the grotto can be challenging, often requiring a tripod or higher ISO. The spray from the falls can also be an issue, so protect your gear.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light. However, the shaded grotto provides a unique atmosphere regardless of the time of day.
No, drone usage is prohibited in Grand Canyon National Park, including at Ribbon Falls, to protect wildlife and the visitor experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families seeking a more accessible Grand Canyon experience, focusing on the rim trails or shorter hikes near the visitor centers might be more suitable. If a family is undertaking a rim-to-rim hike and has older, experienced children, the Ribbon Falls destination can be a rewarding, albeit challenging, goal. Always prioritize safety and gauge your children's stamina realistically.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, pack all your own food and snacks for the hike. Utilize the free shuttle services within the park to reach trailheads. Remember that while the hike itself is free, the effort and preparation required are substantial. Planning ahead for permits and lodging, even for camping, is crucial as these can book up far in advance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ribbon Falls Trail Experience
Reaching Ribbon Falls involves crossing Bright Angel Creek, which is typically knee-deep and manageable. The reward for this trek is a truly magical sight: a waterfall cascading down a vibrant, moss-covered rock face into a cool, shaded grotto. This oasis provides a welcome respite from the desert heat, with the water being described as 'ice-cold' and 'shocking in the best way.' The atmosphere within the grotto is often called 'sacred' and 'spiritual,' offering a profound sense of peace and awe.
For those planning this adventure, it's crucial to understand the physical demands. A one-day round trip from the South Rim is exceptionally challenging. Many recommend incorporating a visit to Ribbon Falls as part of an overnight stay at Phantom Ranch or Bright Angel Campground, allowing for a more enjoyable and less exhausting experience. Proper preparation, including ample water, snacks, and sturdy footwear, is essential for a safe and memorable journey.
Navigating the Grand Canyon's Trails
When planning your hike to Ribbon Falls, consider your starting point. If you're coming from the South Rim, the most feasible way to access the trail is by first descending to the canyon floor and staying at Bright Angel Campground or Phantom Ranch. From these locations, the hike to Ribbon Falls is approximately 12 miles round trip. Attempting a day hike from the South Rim directly to Ribbon Falls and back is an extreme undertaking, covering around 26 miles with significant elevation changes.
Trail etiquette and safety are paramount in the Grand Canyon. Always carry more water than you think you'll need, especially during warmer months. Wear appropriate footwear, use sun protection, and be aware of your physical limitations. The park's 'Leave No Trace' principles are vital; pack out everything you pack in to preserve the natural beauty for future visitors.
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