• Distance: 28–29 miles round-trip
• Duration: 4–6 days
• Elevation change: 4,800 feet
• Effort: Very strenuous
• Trailhead: Saddle Mountain Wilderness

There are two possible routes to this trailhead, from House Rock Valley and Forest Road 445, or south of Jacob Lake on Forest Road 610. The latter may be snowy or muddy into June. You will start on the Saddle Mountain Trail for three miles (from FR 445) or 3.5 miles (from FR 610).

Nankoweap Trail is considered one of Grand Canyon’s most strenuous hikes, with downclimbs, sheer drop-offs, and no water along much of its length. Only experienced canyon backpackers should attempt it. Those who do will gain close-up looks at the colorful Grand Canyon Supergroup rocks, along with Marble Canyon panoramas.

From the trail junction, the Nankoweap Trail drops from the rim through the Esplanade. A long traverse across the Supai descends gradually eastward to Tilted Mesa, about four miles from the junction. A couple of steep descents require hands and feet to reach Nankoweap Creek, about eight miles from the junction. Follow the creekbed to the Colorado River, just over three miles. The shrubby Low Sonoran Desert along the river offers good campsites.