Grand Canyon Hiking and Backpacking » horseshoe mesa

New Hance to Grandview Pictures – December 2005

SenorYermo — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 06:59:30 +0000

Click on any photo below to see a slideshow.

To read the trip report from these photos click here.

Horseshoe Mesa Loop Pictures – December 2009

SenorYermo — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 03:16:55 +0000

Click on any photo below to see a slideshow.

To read the trip report from these photos click here.

Grandview to Hance Creek Pictures – January 2007

SenorYermo — Sat, 04 Dec 2010 09:22:42 +0000

Click on any photo below to see a slideshow.

To read the trip report from these photos click here.

Miner’s Spring – Video

SenorYermo — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 05:32:40 +0000

Miner’s Spring (also known as Page Spring) is the closest perennial water source to Horseshoe Mesa.

Horseshoe Mesa Miner’s Cabin – Video

SenorYermo — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 01:37:53 +0000

Wrong Way to Cottonwood Creek – Video

SenorYermo — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 01:30:20 +0000

This guy appears to have no idea where he is going.

Cave of the Domes – Video

SenorYermo — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 01:27:44 +0000

There is a mysterious presence in this cave…

East Arm of Horseshoe Mesa – Video

SenorYermo — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 01:24:57 +0000

Horseshoe Mesa Composting Toilet – Video

SenorYermo — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 01:21:26 +0000

This is perhaps the most inspirational backcountry toilet to be found anywhere.

Grandview Trail Info

SenorYermo — Tue, 18 May 2010 05:50:37 +0000

Length: This trail is a little over 3 miles to Horseshoe Mesa. If your destination is the East Tonto Trail, there are trails descending west and east from the neck of the mesa, and a third option on the inside of the west arm. These will add about 2 more miles to your trek.

Water: There is no water along the trail and only limited post-storm pothole availability on Horseshoe Mesa. Miner’s Spring (also known as Page Spring) is perennial below the east neck of Horseshoe Mesa. Cottonwood Creek below the west side of the mesa has seasonal water.

Campsites: There is no camping along the trail. Horseshoe Mesa has designated campsites only. If the East Tonto Trail is your destination, camping is at-large.

Reflections and Attractions: The Grandview Trail is a great introduction to non-corridor hiking in GC. The trailhead at Grandview Point has the highest elevation of any South Rim trail. There are numerous highlights upon reaching Horseshoe Mesa including mining relics, Cave of the Domes, and perhaps the most inspirational backcountry toilet anywhere. The ends of both the west and east arms of the mesa sport spectacular views.

Warnings and Musings: Hiking this trail in icy winter conditions can be treacherous, even with crampons. The mining tunnels in the area such as Last Chance Mine are closed to visitation for public safety and to protect bat habitat.