The dorms also have evaporative cooling units - work just as well as AC in that environment.

No there are cabins with bunk beds and cabins with queen beds.

Be pretty fit. Don't underestimate the heat! Start hiking at sunset. Walked rim2rim last may and stayed a night at Phantom Ranch, great experience!

Five bunk beds were in the womans dorm i stayed in

Yep... Phantom Ranch sits at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. From the south rim the Bright angel or South Kaibab we get you there. SK is shorter but steeper and is more exposed and has no water. BA is longer but often shaded and has water at multiple stops. Its a no joke hike to make in one day (the park service says dont even try) most people go down SK and up BA. I wouldn't recommend it unless you are in tip top shape and have been training for it. Hiking down to Phantom is optional, hiking back out is mandatory. :) From the north rim you can get there by taking the North Kaibab trail but its about 14 miles and then you still have to hike out either SK or BA. Its an amazing hike but not for the faint or heart. Do your research and plan well, lots of food and enough water.

Clear Creek trail offers a nice hike to the perennial creek for a splash and great views. You can always hike up the North Kaibab trail to Cottonwood and make a stop at Ribbon Falls. Splash in Bright Angel Creek. Mingle with the mules. Meet people from all over the world. Hike the loop over the bridges.Ranger talks are great. Tarantula hunting is cool at night. Great map you can order thru REI is the Sky Terrain map of GCNP.

No, just east of the creek.

grandcanyonlodges.com if you want to make a reservation for Phantom Ranch. Typically you would make a reservation through their lottery system, but you can also check the cancellation list for availability.

There are in the cabins with bunks but not sure about the dormitories

Dogs are not allowed in the canyon.