The South Kaibab Trail drops from the South Rim down to Colorado River at the bottom of the canyon. You can choose from a variety of day hikes by hiking to various points along the trail. Many of the best canyon views are near the start of the trail. The trip all the way to the bottom and back should only be done as an overnight backpacking trip.
The South Kaibab Trail begins south of Yaki Point on Yaki Point Road. Access to the trailhead is by shuttle bus. Water is available at the trailhead.
The trail is well defined and quite steep. There is little shade. Mules use this trail.
Details
Length:
(14.2 miles roundtrip to Phantom Ranch)
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Time:
varies (overnight trip to the bottom and back)
Elevation Change:
4800
Season:
Hikable year round
Additional Details:
Destination
Distance (in Miles)
Elevation Feet
(Destination)
Services: W = Water; T =
Toilet/Restroom; E = Emergency Phone
To Destination
Round
Trip
Services
Notes
W
T
E
Ooh-Aah Point
.75
1.5
6320
?
?
?
Offers a spectacular view. Great day hike. No sign,
point of where trail opens to a WIDE view.
Cedar Ridge
1.5
3
6060
?
X
?
Good turn-a-round for first time canyon hikes, causal
hikes, and late starters. No water. First hitching rail.
Skeleton Point
3
6
5200
?
?
?
Trail sign, second hitching rail is located after flat
stretch on top of ridge. Steeper switchbacks after hitching rail,
it is not recommended to go past this point as a day hike.
Tonto Trail Junction
4.4
8.8
4010
?
X
?
Not recommended for day hikers. The steep
trail conditions and lack of shade can make this a very difficult
and dangerous hike.
Tipoff
4.6
9.2
3870
?
?
X
Panorama Point
5
10
3620
?
?
?
WARNING: Do Not attempt to hike from the
rim to the river and back in one day!
Colorado River Bridge
6.3
12.6
2400
Hiking to the river or Phantom
Ranch as a day hike is not recommended! The distance, temperature
and elevation change cause even the most experienced hikers to have
difficulty. This could result in the hiker needing medical help and
can result in death.
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