Grand Canyon Hotels

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Phantom Ranch

At a Glance

    Pros

  • only inner-canyon lodging option
  • fabulous canyon views
  • remote access limits crowds

    Cons

  • accessible only by foot or mule
  • few amenities or means of outside communication
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Fodorite Reviews

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Phantom Ranch Review

In a grove of cottonwood trees on the canyon floor, Phantom Ranch is accessible only to hikers and mule trekkers; there are 40 dormitory beds and 14 beds in cabins, all with shared baths. The wood-and-stone buildings originally made up a hunting camp built in 1922. Additional cabins are reserved for mule riders, who buy their trips as a package. The mess hall-style restaurant, one of the most remote eating establishments in the United States, serves family-style dinners (purchased separately); breakfast and box lunches are also available. Reservations, taken up to 13 months in advance, are a must for services and lodging.

    Hotel Details

  • 4 dormitories and 9 cabins (some cabins with outside showers reserved for mule riders).
  • Rate includes some meals.
  • Credit cards accepted.
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Fodorite Reviews

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  • Room  
    Décor  
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    The Trip Is the Thing

    Located at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, you must ride a mule or take a very long hike. Both are very hard physically unless you are used to them. Cabin includes all meals. One-room rustic wood cabins are basic but very clean and nicely furnished. Bathroom is toilet only; sink is in room. Lots of windows make small cabin very airy & bright. Meals are served family style at long wooden tables. Only 3 entree choices at dinner; steak dinner was very good. Cabins are maybe 3/4 mile from river in lightly wooded area which is less scenic, but at the river you have the sense of being at the bottom of the canyon more. A trip to Phantom Ranch is one of the biggest travel thrills of my life. The scenery is amazing, especially on the way back up, which uses a different route than going down. If you have a fear of heights, this trip may not be for you. The mule walks on the outside edge of the trail which puts close to half of your body seemingly out into space. Also, if you aren't used to riding you will be sore. But it was worth it for me!

    by KSPacific, 8/22/07

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