Hiking at the Grand Canyon

Hiking at the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is a great place for avid hikers, with a variety of trails to choose from - all of which offer stunning views. While the Rim Trail is mostly paved, the trails leading into the canyon are more challenging. Bright Angel Trail allows for day hikes of up to 12 miles, South Kaibab Trail allows for day hikes of up to six miles, and Hermit Trail allows for day hikes of up to seven miles. All three of these trails are steep.

For an even more challenging day hike, take Grandview Trail, which leads up to Coconino Saddle and Horseshoe Mesa (2.2 miles and 6.4 miles round trip, respectively). Backcountry permits are not required for day hikes.
The National Park Service has lots of great information about trails at the Grand Canyon, safety tips and smart hiking suggestions. Be sure to read up on hiking tips and ways to "hike smart" before you begin your hike.


See Hiking Tips

 

Need hiking gear?

Forget something? Want to grab a bag of trail mix before you head out for the day? Stop by the General Store at Market Plaza near Yavapai Lodge® or the Trailer Village® RV Park.


It's important to stay hydrated while you're hiking.

So swing by one of the park's many filling stations. Here's where you'll find them on the South Rim:

Grand Canyon Village:

  • Canyon Village Marketplace
  • Grand Canyon Visitor Center®
  • Verkamps Visitor Center
  • Yavapai Geology Museum
  • Hermit's Rest® (near the bathrooms and picnic tables)
  • Maswik Lodge® (in the cafeteria)

At the Trailhead:

  • Bright Angel Trailhead
  • South Kaibab Trailhead

Desert View:

  • Desert View Visitor Center
  • Desert View Marketplace
Grand Canyon Water Filling Stations