Do I need to apply permit before going hiking in Grand Canyon?

Question

I am planning to go to Grand Canyon in December, around Christmas time. I want to go Bright Angel Trail, which needs camping in the wild. I searched on this website that I don't need to apply permit early. There is one choice is that "These permits are issued in person only, are for one or two consecutive nights, and cannot be purchased more than one day prior to the start of a hike." But someone said that I have to apply online. So I am wondering whether I have to apply earlier or not. (Online application process seems very inconvenient.)

BTW, I have no car, is it convenient to go to trail entrance by public (commercial) transportation?

EDIT: Nov 21, 2:08

I have no winter hiking experience, actually this will be my first time hiking, and that's the main reason I choose Grand Canyon which is south side of US and everyone said it is not too difficult, but now I know it also could be very cold in winter. So I booked a Bright Angel Lodge Reservation online just now, so I am not going to camp inside the part, I think I will get into trouble to camp in winter without enough experience.

I have been searched for all kinds of information including transportation and lodges online for hours. I also booked a round flight from Pittsburgh to FLG, but it arrives FLG at 9pm, which is too late to catch the last shuttle to Grand Canyon. Is it possible to camp somewhere around the airport? or I must book a hotel in airport? I will arrive FLG in 21 Dec, the Bright Angel Lodge Reservation is on 22 Dec night.

Answer 1

You do need a permit, and per the last Space Availability Report, Bright Angel is booked immediately after Christmas, but there may still be availability (the report is from a few weeks ago) earlier in the month. If you cannot get a permit, it's possible to try to for a last-minute permit in person (show up early) or the waitlist; details are on the website you linked.

I would apply immediately by fax (you can use an online service to send the fax from your computer if you don't have easy access to a fax machine) and they'll respond by email.

I don't know your winter hiking experience, but ensure you are prepared for the conditions, which may include considerable amounts of ice and snow on the trail, winter storms, and water not being available during the off-season in some areas. Make sure you have the necessary equipment.

This page has some information on transportation that may be helpful, but we don't know where you're coming from. That page recommends outfits offering both scheduled and on-demand transportation services and taxis. Without a car, careful planning will be required to avoid becoming stranded, especially in winter.