Top Grand Canyon Trails: 3, South Kaibab Trail

Along with the Bright Angel Trail, the South Kaibab Trail is one of two maintained paths from the South Rim to the Colorado River; both are often very busy, at least in the upper few miles, and both are also used by mules. There is no water along the South Kaibab route so the trip is more strenuous, though the scenery is better, as most of the path descends a sloping ridge, giving far-reaching views up and down the canyon. The trail ends by crossing the river on a suspension bridge, just upstream of Phantom Ranch, where many people hiking the full trail stay for one night.

Length 6.5 miles (10.5 km), elevation change 4,820 feet (1,469 meters)

Trail description

Image credit: Zach Alan