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Phantom Ranch, Grand Canyon, Sedona, & the Southwest

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Home/Hiker’s Links & Resources/South Rim Day Hikes

South Rim Day Hikes

Below is a list of day hikes available from the South Rim. Clicking on each trail name will download a printable trail description from the National Park Service which provides information regarding elevations, distances, and other valuable details. Be sure to check for Critical Backcountry Updates on the Park Service website. You can download a trail description of each trail from the Grand Canyon’s backcountry office.

Backcountry permits are not required for day hikes. A permit is only required if you will be spending the night and camping below the rim. For more information on getting a permit, visit the Grand Canyon Backcountry Permits page.

A permit is not required if you are staying at Phantom Ranch, but a reservation is required in advance. For more information on lodging at Phantom Ranch, visit the Phantom Ranch Lodging & Dining page.

Trail descriptions are in PDF format and will open in a new window. They require free Adobe Reader which can be downloaded here.

Rim Trail

The Rim Trail starts near Kolb Studio in the village area and continues for nearly 12 miles to its final stop at Hermits Rest. But don’t let the distance dissuade you from thinking about this particular hike. The beauty of this hike is that it follows the rim along some of the most spectacular viewpoints to be had anywhere in the Canyon—AND there are shuttle stops at various points along the route. So this means that you can hike between viewpoints and simply catch the shuttle at any of the stops you wish. The longest stretch between stops is almost three miles, but the majority of shuttle stops are spaced around one-half to one mile long. You can view the precise mileage between shuttle stops on the NPS page for the Rim Trail.

Bright Angel Trail

The Bright Angel Trail offers many good destinations and is easily accessible from the Village area. The trailhead is located next to Kolb Studio and starts out relatively gradual. Those who just want to get a feel of the Inner Canyon will do well to hike to Cinch Up.

South Kaibab Trail

(Steep) The South Kaibab Trail begins south of Yaki Point on Yaki Point Road. Access to the trailhead is by shuttle bus. Offers day hikes that range in distance up to 12 miles (round trip). Best views for a relatively short hike. Steep trail, no water, little shade. Water available at the trailhead.

Hermit Trail

(Steep) The Hermit Trail offers hikes to Santa Maria Springs, 4.5 miles (round trip), and Dripping Spring, 6.5 miles (round trip). Trail conditions are tougher than the Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails. An unmaintained steep trail requires caution. Begins 500 feet west of Hermits Rest. Water from springs must be treated before drinking. For experienced desert hikers. Hiking boots recommended.

Grandview Trail

(Very Steep) The Grandview Trail offers hikes to Coconino Saddle, 2 miles (round trip), and Horseshoe Mesa, 6.4 miles (round trip). Trail conditions are tougher than the Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails. An unmaintained steep trail requires caution. Begins on the canyon side of the retaining wall at Grandview Point on Desert View Drive (12 miles east of the village). For experienced desert hikers. Hiking boots recommended.

Some recommended products below may include affiliate links for which I may receive a commission if purchased when clicking through. Please note that I only recommend products that I feel are worthy, and you will not pay any extra when purchasing through these links. Click here to read the full disclosure statement.

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Last update on 2023-01-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Grand Canyon Weather

When most people think of Arizona, they think of heat, sand dunes, cactus, and rattlesnakes. Many do …

South Rim Lodging

Included here is lodging located either within the park on the South Rim, Tusayan, and 30 miles …

South Rim Restaurants, Cafés & Delis

Visit the park's Grand Canyon National Park Public Health Update for the most up-to-date information …

South Rim Campgrounds

Included on this page are campgrounds located either within the park on the South Rim or Desert View …

South Rim Mule Rides

Below is the information provided on the company's website. Prices for the mule rides and …

South Rim Day Hikes

Below is a list of day hikes available from the South Rim. Clicking on each trail name will download …

South Rim Shuttles & Transportation

Included here is information on both in-park shuttles and those that run between Tusayan, the …

South Rim Services

South Rim (Grand Canyon Village) Please check with the Park's Grand Canyon National Park Public …

Desert View

While Desert View is officially on the southern rim of Grand Canyon, it is located 26 miles / 42 km …

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