Saddle Canyon: gem of a Grand Canyon river hike

Saddle Canyon Waterfall and Chockstone

Saddle Canyon is one of the best river hikes of the Grand Canyon.  Period.  The curve in the Colorado River allows an easy pull in for rafts.  The hike begins with a steady climb up an excellent trail.  Blooming brittlebush flowers were everywhere.  The beauty of Grand Canyon spring was on full display this year.

Brittlebush flowers blooming in the Spring

Trail higher up towards Saddle Canyon

Gordon Smith in the flat plat of Saddle Canyon

After the initial assent, the trail levels off for an easy saunter through the redwall canyon.  Photographically I found a few submerged stepping stones to be a colorful subject.

Stepping Stones of Saddle Canyon

The hike ends with a serpentine waterfall.  The thin silver strand of falling water made for a pleasant and satisfying end to this wonderful hike!

Waterfall at the end of Saddle Canyon

Gordon's hike rating:

Hike Difficulty:                   ★★★ Moderate:  steady upward hiking, especially at the start

Trail Condition:                   ★★★ Good, mostly easy to follow

Trail Hazards:                      ★★ Mild

Trailhead:                             Colorado River mile 47, Saddle Camp

Time Required:                     2 hours

Distance round trip:              2 miles

Off the Beaten Path:             ★★★★ Yes, most trip don't stop here

Scenery:                                ★★ Fair, 2 Stars

Photographic Potential:        ★★ Fair, 2 Stars with short but lovely narrows ending at a waterfall