Grand Canyon redesigns Bright Angel trailhead

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Ariz. (AP) — The start of one of the Grand Canyon's most iconic and popular trails has been redesigned and now includes an etched rock sign marking the Bright Angel trailhead.

The revamped area also includes a new paved parking lot around the Bright Angel cabins, new restrooms, a plaza for hikers to rest, and buried electrical and phone lines.

A dedication is planned for Saturday, May 18.

The Bright Angel trail was one of the first entryways into the Grand Canyon, built by the Havasupai (hav-uh-SU'-peye) people. The trail now is used by day and overnight hikers, mule riders, people who ride the shuttle buses and those walking along the South Rim.

The project was funded by park entrance fees and private donations.