Hiking the South Kaibab Trail
Hiking the South Kaibab Trail in Grand Canyon National Park was the highlight of my visit to one of the most iconic landmarks on earth. Whilst most hikes and viewpoints keep to the edge of the canyon, the South Kaibab Trail dives deep into it! This provides a different perspective to all the other viewpoints, plus a better sense of the scale of the canyon!
Curious about experiencing the best hike in the Grand Canyon for yourself? Continue reading to discover everything you need to know about hiking the South Kaibab Trail!
About Grand Canyon South Rim
The Grand Canyon is probably the most famous of all the USA’s National Parks. Growing up in the UK, it was certainly the one I’d heard of more than others.
The canyon is approximately 6,000 feet deep at its lowest, and spans over 18 miles at its widest! And it has the Colorado River flowing through the middle!
What I didn’t realise when I was younger is that the South Rim is the side which has the vast majority of the iconic views.
In fact, the South Rim is vastly different to the North Rim! It’s more accessible than the more remote Northern Rim. It stands at a lower elevation – 7200 feet compared to 8000 feet above sea level. This also means that the South Rim is open all year round, unlike the North Rim which closes through the winter due to the colder temperatures and associated snow. The South Rim receives more tourists each year and thus has more tourist infrastructure available in terms of accommodation, restaurants and transport.
About South Kaibab Trail
The South Kaibab Trail is a legendary route etched into the rugged terrain of the Grand Canyon. It’s one of two popular trails that delve below the South Rim (the other being the Bright Angel Trail).
The trail was originally constructed to provide access to the Colorado River for miners and mule trains in the early 20th century. Since then, the South Kaibab Trail has evolved into a premier hiking route, drawing adventurers from around the globe to marvel at its breathtaking vistas and challenging terrain.
The route offers a walk through the history of different rocks. Descending further and further into the canyon will take you past millions of years of rock formations from limestone and sandstone near the top, down to the oldest rocks (schists, granites and gneists) near the bottom.
Where is the South Kaibab Trail?
The South Kaibab Trail is located on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon in Arizona.
The trailhead itself is not far from Yaki Point and the visitor centre, on the east side of the National Park.
How to get to the South Kaibab Trailhead?
Unlike some other trails in the park, there is no access to the trailhead for private vehicles. Instead, visitors can use the free park shuttle system, which operates from various locations on the South Rim. For the South Kaibab Trailhead, you will need to take the orange route.
There are parking options available near the visitor centre. I was lucky to find space in a free unofficial parking lot on Desert View Drive, which is even closer to the trailhead (here). It’s small (only space for approximately 15 vehicles), but it’s worth checking out as it meant we could walk from there.
Hiking South Kaibab Trail
The South Kaibab Trail is very long. Most people don’t walk the full length of it (often turning back to make it shorter), but you can go as far as 12km (24km loop) into the canyon from the trailhead. Beyond that, it transitions into the North Kaibab Trail.
Walk type: Out and back
Distance: Variable (Anything up to 24km)
Maximum Elevation: 2195m (7200 feet)
Minimum Elevation: 745m (2444 feet)
Walk time: Variable
Difficulty: Depends on distance (Moderate-Hard)
Highlights: Cedar Ridge, Colorado River
Permit Required: No
Entrance Fee: None
Dogs Permitted: No
| Destinations | Total Distance (km) | Elevation Gain | Walk Time | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ooh Aah Point | 2.9 | 210m | 1-2 hours | Easy |
| Cedar Ridge | 5 | 360m | 2-4 hours | Moderate |
| Skeleton Point | 9.6 | 620m | 4-6 hours | Moderate |
| The Tipoff | 14.3 | 990m | 6-8 hours | Hard |
| Phantom Ranch | 23 | 1480m | 2 days recommended | Hard |
South Kaibab Trail: What to expect
The below outline of the route splits the entire South Kaibab Trail into separate sections so you can decide how far you want to walk. Since it’s an out-and-back route, you can turn back at any point.
It’s worth remembering that the further you go down, the further you need to climb on the way back! Unlike most hikes, the hardest part is on the way back so bear this in mind.
Arriving at the Trailhead
As mentioned above, the most likely entry point to the South Kaibab Trail is via the orange route shuttle bus stopping at the Trailhead.
Follow the signs to the start of the walk. You will see a few signs outlining the details of the hike.
South Kaibab to Ooh Aah Point
The trail begins with a handful of switchbacks known as ‘the chimney’. This section is carved out of an exposed face of Kaibab Limestone. As you wind your way down the turns, you will likely be alongside other people as this is the section with the highest footfall.
If you go during winter, there is sometimes snow and ice in these sections. Similarly, if it has melted or there is rain, this section of the trail can be sludgy.
Once you reach the bottom of the chimney you will be almost directly below Yaki Point. The terrain levels out as you reach the more compacted dirt trail. This transitions into wide steps which gently lead down to Ooh Aah Point.
Ooh Aah Point is the first prominent overlook along the trail. As the name suggests, it will probably cause you to make a few noises of delight because of the incredible panoramic views! In front, you will see the terraced plateaus of the Grand Canyon’s North Rim (its size makes it look deceptively close).
If you don’t have much time or are not an experienced hiker, this is where most people turn back.
The hike to Ooh Aah Point is the equivalent of approximately 76 flights of stairs.
Ooh Aah Point to Cedar Ridge
If you intend on following the South Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge, you will continue beyond Ooh Aah Point.
Immediately after the viewpoint, there are yet more switchbacks. You will continue winding down and losing elevation as you pass through an area of Coconino Sandstone. The path continues with a combination of wide dirt steps and rocks.
Cedar Ridge is quieter than Ooh Aah Point. You will notice a theme as you follow the trail further and further, it gets quieter!
The area is relatively exposed and offers a bit more space to explore. A scattering of juniper trees offer a small amount of shade for you to rest. There are also pit toilets available here.
The hike from the trailhead to Cedar Ridge is the equivalent of approximately 112 flights of stairs.
Cedar Ridge to Skeleton Point
As you continue from Cedar Ridge towards Skeleton Point, you will follow the trail past O’Neill’s Butte (the pointy rock pictured below).
After this downhill section, the gradient plateaus as you walk further into the canyon. There are fewer switchbacks and particularly little shade during this section, but enjoy it before you return to switchbacks again!
Skeleton Point is a landmark on the trail that offers a dramatic perspective on the Grand Canyon’s sheer depth and vastness. It’s also the first point where you can have one of the first views of the Colorado River which runs through the Grand Canyon!
The hike from the trailhead to Skeleton Point is the equivalent of approximately 204 flights of stairs.
NOTE – if you decide to turn back at Skeleton Point, it’s worth noting that the best views come just around the corner from Skeleton Point (just a few hundred metres further).
Skeleton Point to the Tipoff
NOTE: If you want to continue beyond Skeleton Point, you should seek the advice of a park ranger. You will need to be in good shape as you have even further to hike back up again. Plus it’s hotter further down the canyon!
At this point, the profile gets even steeper going down the canyon as the trail goes down another 650 feet through the limestone cliffs.
The Tipoff marks the junction where the South Kaibab Trail intersects with the Tonto Trail. From this vantage point, adventurers can gaze out across the canyon’s rugged expanse, marvelling at the sheer magnitude of the landscape surrounding you.
There are further pit toilets here, though it’s also the final bathroom stop until reaching the Bright Angel Campground.
The Tipoff to Phantom Ranch and Bright Angel Campground
After the tipoff, the South Kaibab Trail to Phantom Ranch continues down.
You will have a few more glimpses of the Colorado River as you continue walking towards the inner gorge. The inner gorge is made of more sturdy metamorphic rocks (compared to the sedimentary further up).
You will go down a final set of switchbacks to reach the river. Here you will find the Black Bridge – a suspension bridge which crosses the Colorado River which you will cross to get to the north side.
Turn left after the bridge crossing and continue following the path to the right, where you will find the Bright Angel Campground. There are signs so you don’t get lost.
From the campground, continue walking another 0.5km until you reach Phantom Range where you can buy drinks and snacks to refuel!
Combining with Bright Angel Trail
If you’ve reached this far, you really should be doing an overnight hike. This means there is also the option to check out a new trail the next day!
From Phantom Point, you can hike back up to the Grand Canyon South Rim via the Bright Angel Trail.
Whilst this would take you to a different endpoint, you can catch a shuttle back to where you parked your car once you’re back at rim level.
South Kaibab Trail FAQs
Is South Kaibab Trail free?
Yes, it is free to do the South Kaibab Trail. The only fee required is your entry to the Grand Canyon National Park.
Are dogs allowed on South Kaibab Trail?
No, dogs are not allowed on the South Kaibab Trail. They are not allowed on any trails below the rim
The only exceptions are for assisting anyone with a disability.
If you have a pet, keep them on trails above the rim (e.g South Rim Trail) and keep them on their leash.
Do you need a permit for South Kaibab Trail?
No permit is required to hike the South Kaibab Trail.
Unless you want to go backcountry backpacking. If you intend to stay overnight, you will need a permit to camp.
Are drones allowed at the Grand Canyon?
No drones are allowed at the Grand Canyon.
Best time to visit the Grand Canyon South Rim?
The Grand Canyon South Rim is open all year round.
During the summer (May-September), the area can become very hot, making it tough to hike.
During the winter (December-February), temperatures are more walkable, but it can become snowy and icy.
Spring or autumn are the best times of year to visit the Grand Canyon as there is less chance of snow, but it won’t be boiling, making it more comfortable to hike in!
I also recommend avoiding the school holidays and weekends as the trails get busier.
It’s worth noting that if you visit after it has rained, the trail will be very muddy and get your shoes very orange! Similarly, with snowfall and ice, the trail can become slippery.
Tips for Hiking the South Kaibab Trail
- Get there early: Particularly if you are walking further, an early start will help you avoid crowds and allow you to walk further if you want.
- Go to the toilet before you leave: The nearest toilets to the trail are by the Visitor Center (5 min walk away). There are pit toilets at Cedar Ridge.
- Check the National Park website for warnings: During winter ice is common meaning it can be slippery and spikes may be recommended.
- Plan your hike: Know how far you intend on hiking before you go so you can plan and pack accordingly. I recommend giving between half and two-thirds of your hiking time to the hike back up.
- Know your limits: Unlike most hike profiles, the South Kaibab Trail goes down first and up last. You need to be a good judge of how much energy and water you have left, as however far you go down, there’s only one way back up again!
- Don’t go too close to the edge: The Grand Canyon is pretty big, meaning there are some pretty big drops! Avoid going too close to the edge as you don’t want to slip or drop any belongings.
- Give way to mules: Mules frequently carry people and supplies up and down the South Kaibab Trail. They have right of way on the trail so you should yield to them. And also watch out for their poo!!!
- Leave no trace: Let’s make sure our nature is kept pristine for everyone to enjoy!
What to bring for the South Kaibab Trail
If you are doing a day hike along the South Kaibab Trail, you should bring the following essentials:
- Water
- Suncream
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses)
- Snacks
- Appropriate Walking shoes: Walking boots are preferable, but the shorter hikes can be done in trainers.
- Camera
If you are camping, you will need to bring all of the above as well as your camping gear and enough supplies.
What else to do at the Grand Canyon
- Helicopter Ride: One of the most exciting ways to see the scale of the Grand Canyon is a flight over the top!
- Rim Walk: If you want a more relaxing walk with less elevation, walk along the rim and check out some viewpoints along the way.
- Viewpoints: The South Rim has plenty of spectacular viewpoints, my favourites being Mather Point and Yaki Point. Desert View Watchtower is another iconic lookout point.
- Hike the Bright Angel Trail: A similar walk to the South Kaibab Trail
- Explore the Visitor Centre: Check out the visitor center to learn more about the history of the National Park.
- North Rim: The quieter Grand Canyon North Rim is a completely different experience and feel to the south rim and is worth checking out if you want a greater sense of adventure and isolation.
- Enjoy the town: If you’re looking to relax post-hike, the small town near Grand Canyon South Rim has a cinema, restaurants and more to help you unwind.
Before you go
Thank you for reading my guide to hiking the South Kaibab Trail in Grand Canyon National Park. If guides, itineraries and travel content like this interest you, head over to my blog page to find out more.
If you are new to Matt’s Next Steps, check out the About Me page to find out a bit more about who I am, my travel adventures, and why I wanted to become a travel writer.
Please comment below and let me know your thoughts and experiences, or if there is anything else you want information on.
Happy hiking!
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