How long would it take to climb down the Grand Canyon?

IF you can walk down, it will generally take about four to five hours via the South Kaibab Trail. Problem is, at that point most are too exhausted to walk back up. Almost all hikers must rest a day before spending the ten to twelve hours returning via the Bright Angel Trail.

The above times do not apply to those who must be removed from The Canyon via emergency helicopter, an event that occurs to hundreds each year.

Many people die each year thinking they can down and back up within a few hours. Always bring plenty of water and having an experienced hiker will help as well. I'm not entirely sure but I believe a law was passed making it mandatory to spend a night at a certain point to prevent exhaustion.

As someone who HAS hiked to the bottom (staying one night) and has a brother who did the whole thing in one day, I can state that there is no such rule or regulation, other than the laws of Darwin and common sense. The Parks Service does not require that you spend a night there, but VERY actively encourages you to do so.

In general, the NPS will NOT prevent you from doing something foolish and dangerous in a national park. Just because it is permitted does NOT mean it is safe or wise!