Tanner Trail

The Tanner is a no-nonsense, unmaintained rim‑to‑river route from Lipan Point down to the Colorado at Tanner Rapids. Expect about 8 miles one way (roughly 16 miles out and back) and ~4,600 feet of loss/gain. It’s steep, rocky, exposed, and waterless until you hit the river—best for experienced, well-prepared hikers who want big views and real solitude.

What you’ll see

From the first steps, the eastern canyon yawns wide—this corridor gives you unusually continuous river views most of the way. The trail showcases standout geology: the massive Palisades of the Desert, layers of the Grand Canyon Supergroup, and a dramatic angular unconformity beneath the Tapeats Sandstone. You’re also hiking along a landscape shaped by the Butte Fault and East Kaibab monocline—headliner features in the park’s geologic story. Near the river, the Tanner corridor connects with the Beamer Trail (north along the Colorado) and the Escalante Route (west), opening up classic multi‑day linkups.

Trail notes

From Lipan Point, a short stroll across a small plateau leads to a very steep drop into a shady ravine—the upper mile is the roughest and the steepest. Mid‑route, expect side‑hill traverses with loose rock that pound knees and ankles, plus a sheer Redwall promontory and airy exposure in spots. The tread is generally followable but unmaintained, with eroded and rocky sections and some minor route‑finding feel. Count on a grueling climb back out.

Water, camping, and logistics

There is no water on the trail—your first and only source is the Colorado River (treat/filter). Primitive camping exists at the top of the Redwall (dry; you must haul water) and on Tanner Beach by the river, where there’s also a composting toilet nearby. Overnight trips require a Grand Canyon backcountry permit; day hikes do not. Many backpackers split the descent and ascent over 2–3 days; some hikers cache water for the hike out.

Best time to hike

Aim for spring and fall. Summer brings intense heat and little shade, making this descent dangerous for the unprepared. In winter, the north‑facing upper mile can hold snow and ice long after storms; traction devices and trekking poles are smart. For photography, early and late light from Lipan Point and along the upper benches plays beautifully across the wide eastern canyon.

Tips

Bring ample water for the descent, plus robust footwear and poles for the loose, side‑hill sections. Don’t cut switchbacks—this slope erodes easily. If you’re here for a bigger backcountry tour, the Tanner–Beamer–Escalante combo is a classic; if you just want a maintained taste of the canyon, consider a corridor trail instead.