About This Route
Cottonwood Campground is 6.8 miles down North Kaibab Trail from North Rim, with 10 sites for multi-day descents to Phantom Ranch (permit required). Spring water nearby; filter mandatory. Suited for strong hikers tackling 14-mile one-way rim-to-river.
Safety Considerations
Water scarcity above Roaring Springs; cache if needed. Monsoon thunderstorms trigger rockfalls; shelter in place. Bats carry rabies; avoid caves. Elevation drop causes swelling; ascend gradually. NPS: minimum 2L/hour water in heat.
Essential Gear
MSR Hubba tent, Western Mountaineering bag, Katadyn BeFree filter, Delorme inReach, headnet.
Emergency Tips
Use inReach to contact NPS backcountry office; mule evac possible.