Phantom Ranch in The 21st Century
The ranch continues to be one of the most popular destinations in the national park system; its accommodations are often sold out for a year in advance.
The site now includes cabins, two dormitories each for men and women, a restaurant (serving only people who book meals ahead of time), a mule corral, emergency medical facilities, a ranger station, the Bright Angel Campground, a beach that is frequently visited by Colorado River rafters, and a heliport. Cottonwood trees line the creeks and shade the buildings. The only modes of access to the ranch are foot trails (also used by mules) and the Colorado River. The North Kaibab Trail leads 14 miles to the North Rim. The 9.3 mile trail to the South Rim follows the River Trail for two miles and then climbs the Bright Angel Trail to Grand Canyon Village. The two trail bridges near the ranch are the only Colorado River crossings within a 200-mile distance.
Phantom Ranch also holds the distinction of being one of the only two places left in America whose mail is still delivered by mule, the other being Supai, Arizona.
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