South Kaibab Trailhead
South Kaibab Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
South Kaibab Trailhead
Hiking
5.0
(275)
Running
5.0
(4)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Grand Canyon National Park
Tips
September 23, 2019
Hiking
January 2, 2025
Running
September 27, 2023
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near South Kaibab Trailhead
4.8
(17)
304
hikers
10.5km
04:25
10m
1,420m
Embark on the South Kaibab Trail for a moderate hiking experience that plunges you into the heart of the Grand Canyon. This 6.6-mile (10.5 km) route, with a modest 44 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain, offers continuous panoramic views as it follows a ridgeline. You can expect to spend around 4 hours and 24 minutes exploring its path. As you descend, you'll witness the canyon's vibrant rock layers unfold, with iconic viewpoints like Ooh Aah Point providing expansive vistas early in your journey. The trail provides a unique perspective on the canyon's vastness, making every step a discovery.
Planning your trip requires a few key considerations for the South Kaibab Trail. You cannot access the trailhead with private vehicles; instead, you must use the shuttle bus service from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center or other designated stops. Remember that there are no water sources available along the entire route, so carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. If you plan to hike in winter or early spring, be prepared for potentially icy conditions on the upper sections and consider bringing traction devices for your footwear.
This trail is renowned for its exceptional geological insights, allowing you to observe millions of years of Earth's history etched into the canyon walls. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as mule deer and condors, which frequently inhabit the area. The South Kaibab Trail stands out for its constant, unobstructed views, offering a different visual narrative compared to other canyon trails that might weave through more enclosed areas. It's an ideal choice if you seek an immersive journey into the Grand Canyon's immense scale.
4.9
(108)
1,071
hikers
9.56km
04:31
650m
650m
Embark on a moderate hike down the South Kaibab Trail to Skeleton Point, a 5.9-mile (9.6 km) journey that descends 2119 feet (646 metres) into the Grand Canyon. You can expect to complete this route in about 4 hours and 30 minutes, offering continuous, sweeping views as you go. The trail provides an immersive experience into the canyon's geology, revealing ancient layers and vibrant colors with every step. As you hike, you will pass notable viewpoints like Ooh Aah Point and Cedar Ridge. Your destination, Skeleton Point, offers a unique perspective and a chance to glimpse the distant Colorado River below.
Planning your trip requires attention to detail for this Grand Canyon adventure. Access to the South Kaibab Trailhead is exclusively by shuttle bus from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center; private vehicles are not permitted. The trail offers no water sources, so you must carry plenty, especially during warmer months. Be aware that the upper portions of the trail can be icy in winter or early spring, so check conditions before you go.
This trail is renowned for its direct descent into the canyon, providing an unparalleled opportunity to observe the vastness and geological history of the Grand Canyon. Unlike rim trails, it quickly immerses you in the layered rock formations and expansive vistas that define this natural wonder. The route is well-maintained, allowing you to focus on the spectacular panoramic views and the unique experience of hiking below the rim.
4.9
(100)
1,140
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 2,190 m
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Tuesday 5 May
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Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
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