Cedar Ridge
A rewarding hike on the South Kaibab Trail, offering stunning Grand Canyon vistas and a shaded respite at Cedar Ridge.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Cedar Ridge
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rewarding hike on the South Kaibab Trail, offering stunning Grand Canyon vistas and a shaded respite at Cedar Ridge.
"The views are fantastic, and it's a nice place to catch your breath."
Hydration is Key! 💧
Bring plenty of water and electrolytes. No water sources on the trail. Stay hydrated days before!
Shuttle is Your Friend 🚌
Parking is limited. Use the free shuttle to reach the South Kaibab Trailhead.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cedar Ridge Viewpoint
South Kaibab Trail
A wide, shaded resting spot with restrooms and stunning canyon vistas. Perfect turnaround point.
South Kaibab Trail Scenery
Along the trail to Cedar Ridge
Experience open canyon perspectives and unique old trees on this well-marked, albeit rocky, trail.
Mule Train Sightings
South Kaibab Trail
Catch a glimpse of the iconic park mules as they rest or travel the trail, a unique sight for visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Prepare for the Climb
Best Times
Insider Tips
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South Rim in September: Can’t-Miss Hikes & Tips?
Hydration is Key! 💧
Bring plenty of water and electrolytes. No water sources on the trail. Stay hydrated days before!
Shuttle is Your Friend 🚌
Parking is limited. Use the free shuttle to reach the South Kaibab Trailhead.
South Kaibab Trail > Cedar Ridge and Hopi Point Sunset Possible in one afternoon?
Best hiking sunrise and sunset spots near Grand Canyon Village?
Wear Sturdy Shoes 👟
The trail is rocky and uneven, not paved. Good hiking boots are recommended.
Pack Snacks 🍎
Enjoy a snack in the shade at Cedar Ridge. Apples and nuts are great choices.
First Time at the Grand Canyon South Rim Advise?
Tips
from all over the internet
Hydration is Key! 💧
Bring plenty of water and electrolytes. No water sources on the trail. Stay hydrated days before!
Shuttle is Your Friend 🚌
Parking is limited. Use the free shuttle to reach the South Kaibab Trailhead.
Wear Sturdy Shoes 👟
The trail is rocky and uneven, not paved. Good hiking boots are recommended.
Pack Snacks 🍎
Enjoy a snack in the shade at Cedar Ridge. Apples and nuts are great choices.
Know Your Limits 💪
This hike is strenuous. Be mindful of physical limitations, especially with heat.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking scenic views from Cedar Ridge, calling it a rewarding experience despite the strenuous climb back up. The availability of shade and restrooms at Cedar Ridge is highly appreciated as a resting point. However, many caution about the intense heat and the demanding nature of the hike, emphasizing the need for thorough preparation and hydration.
"GO EARLY!
It’s an oven below the rim and once the sun passes over the cliffs (mid morning/early afternoon) you won’t be able to escape the blazing heat. It can easily feel above 100 below the rim. Stay hydrated (preferably a few days or maybe even a week prior to the hike) but include electrolytes - this is important! This is not your average hike. Do your research on common mistakes and don’t forget downhill feels a lot different than coming back uphill, which you most certainly have to do. No dogs allowed. Take a backpack with plenty of hydration and a snack. Sitting in the shade at Cedar Ridge Point enjoying an apple and mixed nuts while taking in the view was one of the best experiences. We felt accomplished and prepared ourselves for the hike back, gaining over 1000 feet in elevation. There are no water sources on the trail itself, so you’ll need to bring your own. Parking is limited and not allowed at the trailhead, use the shuttle (it’s free). It’s 1.5 miles each way. It’s not easy, but it’s doable. I do not recommend it for people with ankle, knee, or back issues. I would also be hesitant to recommend this trail for anybody with high blood pressure or heart issues, especially in the heat of the day. I give 5 stars for the scenic views. But keep in mind this is not a paved trail, it’s marked, but rocky and can be uneven."
Pamela Harjo
"Cedar Ridge is a great resting spot along the South Kaibab Trail and a popular turnaround point for many hikers. It’s a wide, flat area with a few trees offering some much-needed shade, which is rare on this trail. There are also restrooms here, making it a convenient stop before heading back up or continuing deeper into the canyon. The views are fantastic, and it’s a nice place to catch your breath."
Eric L
"Part of the south kabob hike. It’s about 1.5 miles down the canyon to make it here. If you made it to Aah Ohh point, definitely go the little extra down the canyon to come here. You get closer to the landmark view and the trail has some super open parts at this area to see the canyon from different perspectives and such. There are some really cool old trees and many viewpoints and areas to hangout here too! Got to see some park works with miles riding up the trail as well. If there near you or trying to pass make sure to give them enough space and respect them."
Josh Pease
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The South Kaibab Trailhead is accessible via the free park shuttle bus system. Private vehicles are not allowed at the trailhead. Take the Orange Shuttle Route from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center.
No, parking is not available at the South Kaibab Trailhead itself. You'll need to park at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center or other designated lots and use the shuttle.
Yes, Cedar Ridge is a popular destination on the South Kaibab Trail, which starts from the South Rim. It's approximately 1.5 miles down from the trailhead.
The most convenient way to access the South Kaibab Trail is by using the park's shuttle bus system, specifically the Orange Route.
The shuttle buses within Grand Canyon National Park are free to use for all visitors. You will need to pay the park entrance fee to enter the park itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no specific ticket required to hike the South Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge. You only need to pay the standard Grand Canyon National Park entrance fee.
The South Kaibab Trail is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, hiking during daylight hours is strongly recommended for safety.
Cedar Ridge is part of the Grand Canyon National Park, so the standard park entrance fee applies. There is no additional fee for Cedar Ridge itself.
While there isn't a specific 'ticket' for Cedar Ridge, you can book guided tours that include this hike. Check with authorized park concessioners for options.
The main restriction is that dogs are not allowed on the South Kaibab Trail, including Cedar Ridge.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Cedar Ridge is a relatively flat and wide area along the South Kaibab Trail, offering shade and restrooms. It's a popular spot to rest and enjoy panoramic canyon views before heading back up.
The hike to Cedar Ridge from the trailhead is about 1.5 miles one way. Most visitors spend 2-3 hours for a round trip, including rest time at Cedar Ridge.
Yes, it's considered a strenuous hike due to the elevation gain on the return trip. It's not recommended for those with significant physical limitations.
Yes, there are restrooms available at Cedar Ridge, making it a convenient stop during your hike.
You'll get fantastic, expansive views of the Grand Canyon from Cedar Ridge. It offers different perspectives as you descend deeper into the canyon.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
No, there are no services like food or water available at Cedar Ridge. You must carry all your own supplies.
Pack plenty of water (at least 2 liters per person), electrolyte drinks, and high-energy snacks like nuts, dried fruit, or energy bars.
Yes, Cedar Ridge is a designated resting area. It's a great spot to enjoy a packed lunch or snacks while taking in the views.
The South Kaibab Trailhead is remote and does not have any dining facilities nearby. You'll find restaurants in Grand Canyon Village, a shuttle ride away.
Absolutely! Cedar Ridge is an ideal spot for a picnic lunch with incredible canyon views. Just be sure to pack out everything you pack in.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds. Late afternoon provides beautiful golden hour hues, but can be busier.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the canyon. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant formations. Don't forget a sturdy tripod if you plan for low-light shots.
The entire area offers great vantage points. Look for spots with interesting foreground elements like rocks or vegetation to add depth to your shots.
Yes, you can photograph the mules, but always maintain a safe distance and respect their space and the handlers.
The trail is uneven, so be mindful of your footing when taking photos. Consider a camera strap for security.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Ensure kids are well-hydrated and have plenty of snacks. The restrooms at Cedar Ridge offer a convenient break. While the views are spectacular, be mindful of the steep drop-offs and keep a close eye on children at all times. Consider this hike only if your children are experienced hikers and you are confident in their stamina.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack all your own food and water to save money on park concessions. This is a fantastic way to experience the canyon's grandeur without breaking the bank. Just ensure you pack out all trash to keep the park pristine.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
Be efficient with your time. Utilize the shuttle to get to the trailhead quickly. Pack a light daypack with essentials: water, snacks, sun protection, and a camera. Cedar Ridge serves as a perfect turnaround point for a fulfilling half-day excursion into the canyon.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The South Kaibab Trail Experience
Hikers often describe the descent as deceptively easy, with the real challenge being the strenuous climb back up. The trail is popular for its direct route into the canyon and its stunning panoramas. Visitors should be prepared for significant elevation changes and extreme temperature variations, especially during summer months.
Key points to remember include using the park shuttle to access the trailhead, carrying all necessary supplies (water, food, sun protection), and being aware of your physical limits. The trail is a fantastic way to experience the grandeur of the canyon up close, but proper preparation is paramount for a safe and enjoyable trek.
Preparing for the Heat and Hydration
It's recommended to start hydrating days before your hike, not just on the morning of. Carry more water than you think you'll need – a common guideline is at least 2 liters per person for this hike. Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day, typically from late morning to late afternoon.
Recognizing the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke is also vital. Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, headache, and confusion. If you or someone in your group experiences these, seek shade immediately, hydrate, and if symptoms worsen, consider turning back or seeking assistance.
Understanding Trail Difficulty and Safety
Always wear appropriate footwear. The trail is rocky and uneven, so sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are highly recommended. Trekking poles can also be beneficial for stability and reducing strain on your knees during the descent and ascent.
Be aware of other trail users, including park rangers and mule trains. Give them plenty of space and follow any instructions. The park service emphasizes that hiking into the canyon and back out in one day is a significant undertaking, and visitors should be well-prepared and realistic about their capabilities.
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