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Black Bridge: A Canyon Connector

Hike across history on the Black Bridge, a vital link connecting the North and South Rims of the Grand Canyon since 1928.

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The Black Bridge, also known as the Kaibab Suspension Bridge, is a historic structure that spans the Colorado River in Grand Canyon National Park. Built in 1928, it provides a vital link between the park's North and South Rims.

A brief summary to Black Bridge

  • North Rim, Arizona, 86052, US
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Be prepared for a strenuous hike to reach the bridge; the trails leading to it are steep and challenging.
  • Carry plenty of water, especially during the warmer months, as there is limited water available along the trails.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes and appropriate clothing for the desert environment.
  • Check the weather forecast before you hike and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day.
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Getting There

  • Hiking

    The Black Bridge is accessible via the South Kaibab Trail from the South Rim or the North Kaibab Trail from the North Rim. From the South Rim, take the free shuttle to the South Kaibab Trailhead. The descent to the river is steep and challenging, so allow ample time and carry plenty of water. From the North Rim, the North Kaibab Trail is the only maintained trail that descends to the river. Be aware that the North Rim is only open seasonally, typically from May 15 to October 15.

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Discover more about Black Bridge

Spanning the Colorado River at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, the Black Bridge, also known as the Kaibab Suspension Bridge, is a testament to engineering ingenuity and human perseverance. Completed in 1928, the bridge connects the South Kaibab Trail to the North Kaibab Trail, creating a crucial link for hikers and mule trains traversing the inner canyon. Before the Black Bridge, crossing the Colorado River was a perilous endeavor, relying on a cableway system. The construction of the bridge was a monumental task, with workers and mules transporting 122 tons of materials down the steep canyon walls. Notably, 42 Havasupai tribesmen carried the heavy suspension cables, each weighing a ton, down the winding trails. The bridge's completion revolutionized inner canyon tourism, providing safe passage across the river and facilitating rim-to-rim hikes. Today, the Black Bridge remains a vital part of the Grand Canyon's trail system. It offers breathtaking views of the Colorado River and the surrounding canyon. As hikers emerge from the tunnel on the South Kaibab Trail, the expansive vista of the river and the bridge is a dramatic and unforgettable experience. The bridge is approximately 440 feet long and only 5 feet wide.

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