The portion between the rim and Indian Gardens is all in the same side canyon, it is VERY well traveled, and frequented by mules. However, if you are up for an all day hike, the trip to Plateau Point is great. On the plus side, there is water available at the 1.5 mile, and 3 mile resthouses, and at Indian Gardens. There is always water at Indian Gardens. The trail is patrolled regularly by Park Rangers, and a Ranger is always on duty at Indian Gardens ranger station.
Emergency telephones are also available at both rest houses.
In Fall '94, the Park Service was constructing toilet facilities near the 1.5 mile rest house. There are also toilet facilities at Indian Gardens. I've not been on all of the Horseshoe Mesa trail . It can be reached by driving east along the rim to the Grandview Point overlook. I've been about 1.5 miles down the trail on a day hike.