Check out this 5.8-mile out-and-back trail near Grand Canyon, Arizona. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of
3 h 18 min
to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and horseback riding, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring.
Can you do the South Kaibab Trail in one day?
It is possible to do it as one mega day hike if you are extremely fit and fast
. If you hike the South Kaibab and Bright Angel Trail (or vice versa) you are also hiking rim-to-rim, since you start on the rim, hike to the Colorado River, and then hike back up to the rim.
How long is the South Kaibab Trail?
For most of its
6.5 mile
length the South Kaibab Trail follows the top of a ridge and so has extensive views along the Grand Canyon in both directions, however there is little shade. The trail descends 4,820 feet in total; there is drinking water at the start and at the river but not in between.
How hard is South Kaibab Trail?
This trail is
quite strenuous
, especially with full pack and the heat. Start early in the AM. It has spectacular views and the trail is well maintained. It’s about 7 miles down and took us under 4 hours to get to Bright Angel Campground and Phantom Ranch.
Do you need a permit to hike South Kaibab Trail?
A:
A backcountry permit is required for all overnight use of the backcountry
including overnight hiking, overnight horseback riding, overnight cross-country ski trips, off-river overnight hikes by river trip members, and overnight camping at rim sites other than developed campgrounds.
Can you hike up South Kaibab Trail?
South Kaibab – North Rim “Rim to Rim” Backpacking Trip (3-4 days)
This thru-hike backpacking trip can be done South to North, or North to South
. Stops are Bright Angel Campground and Cottonwood Campground. If you’d like to do a 4-day trip, you can do a layover day at either campground.
Is there parking at the South Kaibab Trailhead?
There is no visitor parking at the South Kaibab trailhead
. Located on the South Rim, access to South Kaibab trailhead is by shuttle bus only, NO private vehicles allowed.
Where do you park for South Kaibab Trail?
- Park on the (wide) roadside around the area where the Arizona Trail (AZT) intersects Rt 64/Desert View Drive. From there, you walk up the AZT to the Rim Trail and then a short distance to the trailhead. …
- There’s a lot just east of Yaki Point Rd.
Is there a bathroom at South Kaibab Trailhead?
Restrooms
. No water. First hitching rail. Do not go past this point as a SUMMER day hike.
How long is South Kaibab Trail to Phantom Ranch?
The South Kaibab Trail to Phantom Ranch is about
7.1 miles
with 4400 foot of elevation change. It is easily doable in one morning IF you are in good shape and accustomed to desert hiking.
How long is South Kaibab Trail to river?
South Kaibab Trail: The trail begins on the South Rim near Yaki Point, and descends to the Colorado River. Elevation change from rim to river is 4860 ft (1480 m), along a
6.3 mile (10.1 km)
trail.
What is the easiest hike in the Grand Canyon?
- Rim Trail. This is the Big Kahuna of easy walking. …
- Trail of Time. …
- Shoshone Point. …
- South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point. …
- Cape Royal Trail. …
- Uncle Jim Trail. …
- Widforss Trail. …
- North Kaibab Trail to Coconino Overlook.
Can kids hike South Kaibab Trail?
This hike is
doable for kids
and relatively safe, unlike the more precipitous Bright Angel Trail. This trail offers great views down inside the Grand Canyon. South Kaibab Trail begins at the South Kaibab trailhead on the Yaki Point Road and starts immediately down.
Is South Kaibab Trail a loop?
Overview.
The South Kaibab Bright Angel Loop is a very strenuous hike
starting on the south rim of the Grand Canyon, going all the way down to the Colorado River, and back up to the south rim of the Grand Canyon.
Can you stay overnight at the bottom of the Grand Canyon?
Staying Overnight
Phantom Ranch, at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, is a popular destination for both hikers and mule riders.
Overnight hiker dormitories and cabins can be reserved and meals are available for purchase
. Advance reservations for meals and lodging at Phantom Ranch are required.
Can you hike Bright Angel Trail a day?
Hiking to the river is only recommended if you are spending the night in the canyon, but
day hikes of varying lengths are possible by turning around partway
, and Bright Angel Trail provides good options to do so with its well-spaced rest houses and water availability.
How long is the rim to rim hike?
Hiking the Grand Canyon rim-to-rim is a bucket list adventure. Over the course of
nearly 24 miles
, hikers descend below the level of the rim, cross the mighty Colorado River, and climb back up the other side.
Which trail is better Bright Angel or South Kaibab?
The big difference is that
Bright Angel is in a side canyon, while South Kaibab is more exposed as on a ridge
. You’ll get better views on SK. I suggest that you think of the hike more in terms of time than distance. After all, at the Grand Canyon it’s not how far you walk, it’s more about how much time you spend there.