South Kaibab Trail
A steep, direct descent into the Grand Canyon offering unparalleled panoramic views and a challenging, rewarding hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal temps, fewer crowds
South Kaibab Trail
Best Time
Ideal temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A steep, direct descent into the Grand Canyon offering unparalleled panoramic views and a challenging, rewarding hike.
"Probably the most scenic trail I've ever been on. It sucks you into the canyon and the lighting is spectacular."
🎒 Pack More Water Than You Think
No water on trail! Carry extra, especially for the strenuous climb back up.
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Essential
The trail is steep and can be rocky. Good grip and ankle support are key.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ooh Aah Point
0.9 miles down
The first major viewpoint, offering breathtaking, expansive canyon vistas. A must-see for any day hiker!
Cedar Ridge
1.5 miles down
A wider, flatter area with restrooms and stunning panoramic views. Great turnaround point for a moderate hike.
The Inner Canyon Descent
Further down the trail
Experience the immense scale of the Grand Canyon as you descend deeper into its majestic, colorful walls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Shuttle is Your Best Friend
Water & Sun Protection are Crucial
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
South Kaibab Trail - beginners
🎒 Pack More Water Than You Think
No water on trail! Carry extra, especially for the strenuous climb back up.
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Essential
The trail is steep and can be rocky. Good grip and ankle support are key.
Advice for Grand Canyon South Kaibab Trail?
South kaibab hiking
☀️ Sun Protection is a Must
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are vital. Little shade means intense sun exposure.
⬆️ Climbing Up is Tougher
Descending is easier, but the ascent is strenuous. Pace yourself and know your limits.
South Kaibab Trail down and up in one day
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack More Water Than You Think
No water on trail! Carry extra, especially for the strenuous climb back up.
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Essential
The trail is steep and can be rocky. Good grip and ankle support are key.
☀️ Sun Protection is a Must
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are vital. Little shade means intense sun exposure.
⬆️ Climbing Up is Tougher
Descending is easier, but the ascent is strenuous. Pace yourself and know your limits.
🚎 Use the Free Shuttle
No parking at trailhead. Orange shuttle from Visitor Center is your ride.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the South Kaibab Trail for its absolutely stunning and panoramic Grand Canyon views, calling it one of the most scenic trails they've ever experienced. However, many note its strenuous nature, particularly the steep climb back up, and emphasize the critical need for ample water and sun protection due to the lack of shade and water sources. The reliance on the shuttle system is also a common point of mention.
"The Kaibab trail was a moderate-level hiking trail. The views were stunning.
Note that you can't park your car at the head of the trail. You need to park it next to the Grand Canyon visitor center and take a free shuttle bus (East bound orange bus) to the trail head."
Ararat Mnatsakanyan
"The trail was a little more difficult than I expected although I have not done a hike in a while. Although it has some beautiful views. It was a little icy the first few hundred feet. Went with my 8 year old, and was a little nervous in some areas about the width of the pass but it went well doesn’t help I’m afraid of heights 😂 my mother who is more afraid of heights then me couldn’t go down. Not sure what she expected though with it being the Grand Canyon 😂 lots of small areas to stop and rest if you need to."
Christina O
"It’s a real trail, but even the trail to the first sign is enjoyable. Great views!"
kaoru mizutani tanaka
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You cannot drive directly to the South Kaibab Trailhead. Park your car at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center and take the free Eastbound (Orange) shuttle bus. The shuttle runs frequently, but check the schedule for operating hours.
No, there is no parking available at the South Kaibab Trailhead. All visitors must use the park's shuttle system.
The Eastbound (Orange) shuttle bus from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center is the designated route to the South Kaibab Trailhead.
Yes, it's possible to hike between the two trails, often as a loop. However, this is a strenuous undertaking and not recommended for a single day unless you are an experienced and well-prepared hiker. Many opt to hike down South Kaibab and up Bright Angel (or vice versa) to utilize water sources on Bright Angel.
The shuttle ride to the South Kaibab Trailhead typically takes about 15-20 minutes from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, depending on stops and traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee specifically for hiking the South Kaibab Trail itself. However, you will need to pay the standard Grand Canyon National Park entrance fee to access the park.
For day hikes on the South Kaibab Trail, no special permits are required. Permits are only necessary for overnight camping below the rim.
The shuttle operating hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Grand Canyon National Park website or the visitor center for the most current shuttle schedule.
Yes, the South Kaibab Trail is generally open year-round. However, conditions can vary significantly with weather, especially in winter when ice can be present.
Yes, you can hike South Kaibab Trail all the way to Phantom Ranch at the bottom of the canyon. This is a very strenuous, long-distance hike typically done as an overnight trip with a camping permit.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The South Kaibab Trail is considered a strenuous trail. It is steep, with many switchbacks, and offers no water or shade. The climb back up is particularly challenging.
Hiking to Ooh Aah Point (0.9 miles) typically takes about 30-60 minutes down and 1-1.5 hours back up, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop for photos.
While children can hike parts of the trail, parents should exercise extreme caution. The steep drop-offs and narrow sections can be intimidating for those afraid of heights, and constant supervision is essential.
The views are spectacular and panoramic, offering some of the most iconic vistas of the Grand Canyon. You'll see the vastness of the canyon, colorful rock layers, and the Colorado River in the distance.
Yes, there are composting toilets at Cedar Ridge (1.5 miles down) and at Skeleton Point (3 miles down). There are no facilities at Ooh Aah Point.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
Absolutely not. There are no water sources or food services along the entire South Kaibab Trail. You must carry all the water and snacks you will need for your hike.
For a short hike to Ooh Aah Point, at least 1-2 liters of water per person is recommended. For longer hikes, carry significantly more. Pack high-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, and fruit.
You can purchase snacks and water at the General Store or various delis and cafes located within Grand Canyon Village, near the Visitor Center.
No, there are no water refill stations on the South Kaibab Trail. You must carry enough water for your entire round trip.
The South Kaibab Trailhead is remote and does not have any dining facilities. You'll need to eat in Grand Canyon Village before or after your hike.
📸 📸 Photography
Ooh Aah Point offers iconic, sweeping canyon views. Cedar Ridge provides a broader panorama. As you descend, numerous viewpoints offer unique perspectives of the canyon's layers and the Colorado River.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with dramatic shadows and warm hues. Midday sun can be harsh and wash out colors.
Exercise extreme caution when taking photos near the edge. The drop-offs are sheer and dangerous. Stay well back from the rim and never lean over for a shot.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the canyon. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant features. Consider a lightweight setup as you'll be hiking.
No, drone operations are prohibited within Grand Canyon National Park, including on all trails.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the age and hiking experience of your children. For younger kids, a short out-and-back to Ooh Aah Point might be sufficient. If you have older, more experienced hikers, you might consider going a bit further to Cedar Ridge. Always be prepared for the strenuous climb back up, which can be challenging for little legs.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money on food, pack your own lunches, snacks, and plenty of water. You can purchase supplies at grocery stores outside the park or at the General Store in Grand Canyon Village before heading to the trailhead. This approach significantly cuts down on expenses compared to dining at park lodges.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
Solo hikers can particularly appreciate the quiet moments and the feeling of solitude the canyon can offer, especially if they venture further than the most crowded viewpoints. Remember that the climb back up is strenuous, so ensure you have adequate water and energy reserves.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the South Kaibab Trail Experience
Key viewpoints like Ooh Aah Point (0.9 miles) and Cedar Ridge (1.5 miles) are popular turnaround points for day hikers, providing stunning panoramas without requiring a full descent. For those aiming for longer day hikes, Skeleton Point (3 miles) offers a glimpse of the Colorado River. It's crucial to remember that every step down is a step up, and the return journey is significantly more strenuous.
Planning is paramount for a safe and enjoyable experience on the South Kaibab Trail. Always check the weather forecast, carry more water than you think you'll need, wear appropriate footwear, and pack sun protection. The free shuttle system is essential for accessing the trailhead, so familiarize yourself with its schedule.
Hiking to Ooh Aah Point: A Popular Day Hike
This section of the trail is steep but manageable for most reasonably fit individuals. The descent takes about 30-60 minutes, while the climb back up can take 1-1.5 hours, depending on your pace and how often you pause to soak in the views or take photos. It's a fantastic introduction to hiking below the rim without committing to a full-day expedition. Remember, there's no water or shade here, so come prepared.
Many visitors find Ooh Aah Point to be the perfect spot for a picnic lunch or a memorable photo opportunity. It’s a testament to the trail's accessibility for a rewarding canyon experience, even for those with limited time or hiking experience.
The South Kaibab vs. Bright Angel Trail Debate
The Bright Angel Trail, on the other hand, offers more shade and has water stations at various points (Indian Garden, Three-Mile Resthouse, Mile-and-a-Half Resthouse), making it a more forgiving option for many hikers. It also has a more gradual incline, particularly on the upper sections. Many hikers opt for a South Kaibab to Bright Angel loop (or vice versa) to experience the best of both worlds, though this is a significant undertaking.
Ultimately, the 'better' trail depends on your fitness level, the time of year, and your priorities. If you prioritize dramatic, immediate views and are well-prepared for the conditions, South Kaibab is incredible. If you prefer more amenities, shade, and a slightly less intense climb back up, Bright Angel might be your preference.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit