
Trail of Time
Walk through 2 billion years of Grand Canyon history on this accessible, paved 1.3-mile trail with stunning views and geological exhibits.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds

Trail of Time
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk through 2 billion years of Grand Canyon history on this accessible, paved 1.3-mile trail with stunning views and geological exhibits.
"The Trail of Time offers an unforgettable journey through the Grand Canyon's geological past with accessible beauty."

🚶♀️ Easy & Accessible Walk
The Trail of Time is paved and mostly level, perfect for all ages and abilities. Wheelchair accessible!
📚 Learn About Geology
Take your time with the interpretive plaques and rock samples to truly appreciate the canyon's history.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Geological Time Medallions
Along the Trail of Time
Walk through 2 billion years of history with markers representing different geological eras.

Interactive Rock Samples
Along the Trail of Time
See and touch polished rock samples, offering a tangible connection to the canyon's ancient past.

Panoramic Canyon Vistas
Overlooks along the Trail of Time
Breathtaking, expansive views of the Grand Canyon's immense scale and beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Grand Canyon Visit
Understanding the Trail of Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
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1st Time Trip Advice
🚶♀️ Easy & Accessible Walk
The Trail of Time is paved and mostly level, perfect for all ages and abilities. Wheelchair accessible!
📚 Learn About Geology
Take your time with the interpretive plaques and rock samples to truly appreciate the canyon's history.
Best plan for just a few hours to visit?
📸 Capture the Views
Plenty of overlooks offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Path
Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome on the Trail of Time.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Easy & Accessible Walk
The Trail of Time is paved and mostly level, perfect for all ages and abilities. Wheelchair accessible!
📚 Learn About Geology
Take your time with the interpretive plaques and rock samples to truly appreciate the canyon's history.
📸 Capture the Views
Plenty of overlooks offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Path
Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome on the Trail of Time.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Trail of Time for its educational value and stunning, accessible views of the Grand Canyon. The paved path, geological exhibits, and rock samples are frequently praised, making it a highlight for all ages and abilities. Some note that while the trail is beautiful, it can get crowded during peak times.
"The Grand Canyon South Rim walk is an unforgettable experience, offering some of the most breathtaking views you'll ever see. The well-maintained paths provide easy access to various vantage points, allowing you to take in the vast, majestic beauty of the canyon from multiple perspectives.
The walk itself is relatively easy, making it accessible for people of all ages and fitness levels. Along the way, you'll find informative signs and exhibits that provide fascinating details about the geology, history, and wildlife of the area. There are also plenty of spots to rest and take photos, ensuring you can enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
Whether you're an avid hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll with stunning views, the South Rim walk of the Grand Canyon is a must-do. The sheer scale and beauty of the canyon are awe-inspiring, and it's an experience that will stay with you long after you leave."
Amy Middleton
"Beautiful views and exhibits about canyon geology. Exhibits and displays every few hundred meters can break up the walk."
Michael Snyder
"The Western Rim Trail was amazing. Tim was extremely knowledgeable and informative which made it a truly enjoyable experience. The weather was perfect for exceptional views and being December, no crowds! I highly recommend Tim for an unforgettable adventure."
Hazel O
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Trail of Time is located on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, between Mather Point and Yavapai Geology Museum. It's easily accessible from the main visitor center parking areas. You can walk to it from Mather Point or take the free park shuttle bus to the Yavapai Geology Museum stop.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center and Mather Point. From these lots, it's a short walk to access the Trail of Time.
While you can drive to viewpoints near the Trail of Time, the trail itself is a pedestrian walkway. Parking is available at designated lots, and then you can walk onto the trail.
The Trail of Time is accessible via the free park shuttle system. The Blue Route (Village Route) stops near Yavapai Geology Museum, which is at one end of the trail.
From Grand Canyon Village, you can walk along the rim trail or take the Blue Route shuttle bus to the Yavapai Geology Museum, which provides direct access to the Trail of Time.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Trail of Time is a free, public walkway within Grand Canyon National Park. You only need to pay the park entrance fee to enter the park itself.
The Trail of Time is open 24 hours a day, year-round, as it's an outdoor paved path. However, interpretive exhibits and the Yavapai Geology Museum have specific operating hours.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Grand Canyon National Park. This fee covers access to the park, including the Trail of Time. Check the official NPS website for current fees.
Tickets are not required for the Trail of Time itself. You can purchase your Grand Canyon National Park entrance pass online in advance or at the park entrance stations.
Discounts for park entry may be available for seniors, military, and children. These apply to the park entrance fee, which grants access to all areas, including the Trail of Time.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Trail of Time is 1.3 miles long. Walking at a leisurely pace with stops to read the exhibits, it can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
Absolutely! The Trail of Time is paved and mostly level, making it fully accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and other mobility devices.
You'll find interpretive plaques detailing the Grand Canyon's geological history, medallions marking different time periods, and actual rock samples from the canyon walls.
Restrooms are available near the Yavapai Geology Museum at one end of the trail and at Mather Point, which is near the other end. There are no restrooms directly on the trail itself.
Yes, dogs are allowed on the Trail of Time as long as they are on a leash. It's a great way to enjoy the views with your furry companion.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon during the 'golden hour' offers beautiful, warm light that enhances the canyon's colors. Sunrise is also spectacular, though it might be cooler and busier.
The entire trail offers stunning views, but keep an eye out for designated overlooks with safety rails. These spots provide unobstructed panoramic shots of the canyon.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the canyon. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Yes, you are welcome to take photos of the interpretive plaques and rock samples along the Trail of Time.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always check park regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents can relax knowing the trail offers safe overlooks with railings, and there are plenty of spots to rest. It’s a low-stress way to experience iconic Grand Canyon views and learn something new together. Plus, it's dog-friendly, so your furry family members can join in the exploration too!
🚶♀️ Casual Strollers & Seniors
The interpretive displays add an enriching layer to the walk, offering fascinating insights into the canyon's formation without requiring intense physical effort. It’s a wonderful way to appreciate the Grand Canyon's majesty at a relaxed pace, making it accessible and enjoyable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels.
🐶 Pet Owners
It's a great opportunity for your dog to experience the Grand Canyon alongside you. The paved surface is comfortable for paws, and the numerous overlooks provide plenty of spots to stop and let your pet take in the sights and smells. Remember to bring water for both you and your pet, especially during warmer months.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Grand Canyon Geology
One of the most engaging features is the collection of actual rock samples from the canyon walls. These samples are polished to reveal their intricate details, allowing you to see firsthand the different types of rock that form the Grand Canyon. Each sample is accompanied by information explaining its origin and significance. This tactile and visual approach makes learning about geology accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of prior knowledge.
Beyond the exhibits, the Trail of Time offers spectacular panoramic views of the Grand Canyon. The path is designed to provide numerous vantage points where you can pause, admire the scale of the canyon, and connect the geological information you're learning with the landscape before you. It’s a perfect blend of education and natural beauty, making it a must-do for any visitor to the South Rim.
Accessibility and Family-Friendliness
For families with children, the Trail of Time offers a unique and engaging way to learn about geology. The interactive exhibits, including the time medallions and rock samples, capture kids' attention and make learning fun. It's a great alternative to strenuous hiking, allowing younger visitors to experience the grandeur of the Grand Canyon at their own pace. Parents often appreciate that the trail is safe and easy to navigate, providing peace of mind while exploring.
Furthermore, the trail is dog-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their leashed pets along for the walk. This inclusivity extends the opportunity to enjoy the park's natural wonders with the whole family. With its combination of accessibility, educational value, and beautiful scenery, the Trail of Time stands out as a welcoming and enriching experience for all visitors to the Grand Canyon South Rim.
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