Tonto Trail landscape

Photo: Photo by Barth Bailey on Unsplash

Tonto Trail

~8 days · 91.7 mi · strenuous · Point-to-point

Quick facts

Distance91.7 mi
Days out8
Elevation gain14,098 ft
Gain / mile154 ft
High point4,049 ft

What the Tonto Trail is known for

The Tonto Trail traverses the Tonto Platform of the Grand Canyon for about 70 miles between Garnet Canyon in the west and Red Canyon at Hance Rapids in the east, linking every major south-side corridor trail. Point-to-point below the rim; most parties hike it in sections, and a full traverse takes 8 or more days with careful water planning.

Route map & campsites

Route map of the Tonto Trail on OpenStreetMap terrain Open in Planner →

Route shape from OpenStreetMap geometry. Start · End · Camp

Elevation profile

Elevation ranges from 8,074 ft to 12,874 ft over 91.7 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).

  • Uphill 38.0 mi · 42%
  • Downhill 31.1 mi · 34%
  • Flat 22.5 mi · 25%

Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.

Frequently asked questions

How many days does the Tonto Trail take?

Most backpackers hike the Tonto Trail in about 8 days (7 nights out) over its 91.7 miles, though pace varies with fitness and conditions.

How much elevation gain is on the Tonto Trail?

The Tonto Trail climbs roughly 14,098 ft total — about 154 ft per mile, topping out near 4,049 ft.

Related trails

Sources & attribution

Route geometry and stats derived from OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL) — source relation. Stats are approximate and may differ from official surveys; permit rules and conditions change — verify with the managing authority before your trip. Last reviewed July 2026.

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