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Havasupai Garden Ranger Station: Oasis in the Grand Canyon

A vital stop along the Bright Angel Trail, offering information, respite, and a glimpse into the Grand Canyon's history and natural beauty.

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Located 4.5 miles down the Bright Angel Trail, the Havasupai Garden Ranger Station provides essential services and information for hikers in the Grand Canyon. Formerly known as Indian Garden, this lush oasis offers a respite with water, shade, and stunning views, while the ranger station ensures visitor safety and education.

A brief summary to Havasupai Garden Ranger Station

Local tips

  • Check water availability at the ranger station, as it can be seasonal and subject to waterline breaks.
  • Be prepared for temperature changes; the canyon can be significantly hotter than the rim, especially during summer.
  • Allow twice as much time to hike up as it took to hike down, and pace yourself accordingly.
  • Stay on the uphill side of the trail and remain quiet when encountering mule trains.
  • Practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the natural beauty of the area.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Bright Angel Trailhead near Grand Canyon Village, follow the well-maintained Bright Angel Trail downhill. The Havasupai Garden Ranger Station is located approximately 4.5 miles (7.2 km) down the trail. This is a strenuous hike with significant elevation change, so allow plenty of time and carry sufficient water. There are no fees to access the Bright Angel Trail or Havasupai Garden Ranger Station beyond the park entrance fee.

  • Public Transport

    From other points in Grand Canyon Village, take the free shuttle bus to the Bright Angel Trailhead. From there, follow the walking directions. Shuttle buses run frequently throughout the day. Check the National Park Service website for the current shuttle schedule. There are no additional public transport costs to reach the trailhead.

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Discover more about Havasupai Garden Ranger Station

The Havasupai Garden Ranger Station, nestled within the Grand Canyon, serves as a vital hub for hikers and a testament to the canyon's rich history. Situated along the Bright Angel Trail, approximately 4.5 miles (7.2 km) below the South Rim, this ranger station provides essential resources, safety information, and a glimpse into the canyon's natural and cultural heritage. Originally known as Indian Garden, the area was historically used by the Havasupai people, who cultivated crops like squash, beans, and corn using sophisticated terracing and irrigation systems. The Havasupai Tribe lived and farmed here for millennia before being forcibly removed by the National Park Service. In 2022, the park service officially renamed the site Havasupai Gardens to honor the Havasupai Tribe and their history. In the late 1800s, prospectors improved the trail to access mining claims, and Ralph Cameron later capitalized on tourism by charging a toll for trail access. The National Park Service took control of the Bright Angel Trail in 1928. Today, the ranger station offers a range of services, including providing maps, weather updates, and safety tips. Rangers are available to answer questions and share insights about the canyon's geology, wildlife, and history. The site also includes a campground with 16 tent campsites, potable water, and toilets. It's a popular stop for mule trains heading to Phantom Ranch. Havasupai Garden is more than just a rest stop; it's a place to appreciate the resilience of life in a challenging environment and to learn about the human stories intertwined with the Grand Canyon's landscape.

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