The most dramatic Grand Canyon trail follows ridge lines with continuous panoramic views — no forest cover to block the vistas. Ooh Aah Point (0.9 miles) and Skeleton Point (3 miles) are excellent turnaround points for day hikers.
The South Kaibab Trail is the most dramatic route into Grand Canyon National Park from the South Rim in Arizona, following exposed ridge lines for its entire 6.8-mile one-way descent to the Colorado River at Bright Angel Campground. Unlike the Bright Angel Trail, it follows no creek drainage, meaning hikers traverse open ridgelines with unobstructed views in every direction. The trailhead is located east of Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim, accessible only via the free Kaibab/Rim Route shuttle bus — no private vehicles are permitted at the trailhead.
The trail drops 4,620 feet from the rim at approximately 7,260 feet to the river at 2,640 feet. The surface is compacted rock and gravel on a well-maintained but often narrow ridge path, with retaining walls in places. No water is available at any point on the South Kaibab Trail and shade is essentially absent — a critical consideration during warm months.
Ooh Aah Point at 0.9 miles (680-foot descent) provides spectacular views into the inner canyon and is the most popular turnaround point for visitors with limited time. Cedar Ridge at 1.5 miles (1,140-foot descent) includes pit toilets and a shaded rest area and is the recommended day-hike maximum for most visitors. Skeleton Point at 3 miles offers views down into the Tonto Platform and is the suggested limit for well-prepared day hikers starting early in cool conditions. The trail continues beyond to the Tonto Trail junction and the Black Bridge over the Colorado River.
Mule trains and ranger-led trips also use the South Kaibab Trail; hikers must yield to pack animals and step to the uphill side. The complete South Kaibab/Bright Angel loop — descending one and ascending the other with an overnight at Bright Angel Campground — is one of the most celebrated multi-day hikes in the United States.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Grand Canyon National Park, South Rim
- Best season
- October to April; avoid May through September
Highlights
- Ridge-line hiking with unobstructed canyon views
- Fastest descent to Colorado River
- Ooh Aah Point view
Tips for visiting
- Arrive at the Kaibab/Rim shuttle stop by 6am in shoulder seasons to reach Ooh Aah Point ahead of peak crowds.
- Carry all water needed from the South Rim — there are no water sources anywhere on the South Kaibab Trail.
- Cedar Ridge (1.5 miles down) is the NPS-recommended turnaround for day hikers; Skeleton Point is only for experienced, well-prepared hikers.
- The South Kaibab/Bright Angel overnight loop is a classic; book backcountry permits well in advance through the park lottery.
- Trekking poles help significantly on the steep, loose descent and the muscular ascent if returning by the same route.
- Never hike down the South Kaibab in summer afternoon hours — heat stroke risk in the fully exposed canyon is severe.
When to visit
October through April is optimal for hiking below the rim on the South Kaibab Trail; November, March, and April offer the best balance of daylight and manageable temperatures.
Accessibility
The South Kaibab Trail is not wheelchair or stroller accessible. The trail begins steeply and follows narrow ridge lines with significant exposure, requiring full mobility and considerable physical fitness. No accessible facilities exist at the trailhead beyond the shuttle stop.
Frequently asked questions
Is there water available on the South Kaibab Trail?
No. The South Kaibab Trail has absolutely no water sources at any point. Hikers must carry all water from the South Rim trailhead, calculating at least 1 liter per hour of activity.
Can visitors drive to the South Kaibab Trailhead?
No private vehicles are permitted at the South Kaibab Trailhead. Hikers must use the free Kaibab/Rim Route shuttle bus, which departs from the Visitor Center Plaza near Grand Canyon Village.
What is the best turnaround point for a day hike on the South Kaibab Trail?
Cedar Ridge at 1.5 miles is the National Park Service's recommended turnaround for day hikers. Ooh Aah Point at 0.9 miles is excellent for visitors short on time. Skeleton Point at 3 miles suits only fit, experienced hikers starting early.
Can the South Kaibab Trail be combined with the Bright Angel Trail?
Yes — the classic approach descends South Kaibab and ascends Bright Angel (or vice versa), creating a loop of approximately 13.5 miles with water access on the Bright Angel side. An overnight permit is needed for camping at Bright Angel Campground.