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South Kaibab Trail
South Kaibab Trail

South Kaibab Trail

The South Kaibab Trail is a beautiful hiking trail located in the Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona. It is one of the best trails along the Canyon’s South Rim.

The strenuous trail is a steep 14.6-mile-long round trip that takes hikers to the floor of the Canyon in what can only be described as an epic adventure.

South Kaibab Trail, Length, Time & Map, Grand Canyon National Park AZ

Hiking the South Kaibab Trail takes at least two days, with a change in elevation of more than 4,700 feet. This trail stands out because, unlike other trails that follow the route along the side canyons, the South Kaibab Trail follows an open route along the cliff edges. Owing to its sharp edges and steep nature, this trail is best suited for experienced hikers.

The open route provides some of the most panoramic 360-degree views of the Canyon’s expanse, making it an idyllic option for a hike during the day. The trail begins at Yaki Point, with complimentary shuttles heading to the trail from the Visitor Centre. Private vehicles are not permitted at the trailhead as there is no parking space on site.

The trail begins with a sharp descent to the deep gorge at Pipe Creek, before the cliffs open up to the scenic views of the Canyon to the east and the west. This descent continues for 1.5 miles before getting to Cedar Ridge. This makes for an excellent stopover for day hikes, as the rest of the trail features steep slopes and numerous switchbacks.

From here, the trail follows a straight route before making a sharp bend at O’Neill Butte. From here, South Kaibab Trail takes hikers through switchbacks that lead on to Tonto Plateau. The Tip Off is a relatively flat section located at the Inner Canyon Gorge, with amenities that include a restroom and an emergency phone.

The end of the South Kaibab Trail is marked by a small tunnel that leads to a suspension bridge over the Colorado River. Across the River, hikers get to the final stopover at the iconic Phantom Ranch. This is one of the Canyon’s most rewarding hikes.

About the author

Michael Jones

Michael created and runs the Las Vegas Travel Hub website, as well as the Holiday Point travel brand that incorporates a network of 16 location based travel information and attraction websites around Australia, Asia, and around the world.

With 25+ years of online experience and a passion for travel (having visited Las Vegas many times and had the times of his life), Michael not only researches and writes content for the website, he also tinkers behind the scenes with the website functionality & design.

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What is the South Kaibab Trail address?
Grand Canyon National Park
Yaki Point Rd, Grand Canyon Village, AZ

Please visit our website for more information on the South Kaibab Trail.
What are the South Kaibab Trail opening hours?
Grand Canyon Visitor Center
Spring
Mon - Sun: 9am - 4pm
Summer & Fall
Mon - Sun: 8am - 6pm
Winter
Mon - Sun: 9am - 5pm

Please visit our website for more information on the South Kaibab Trail.
What are the South Kaibab Trail entry prices?
Weekly Passes
Vehicle Permit: $35
Motorcycle Permit: $30
Individual Permit: $20 per person

Entrance Fee-Free Days
Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.
First day of National Park Week
National Park Service Birthday
National Public Lands Day
Veterans Day

Please visit our website for more information on the South Kaibab Trail.
What is the South Kaibab Trail phone number?
What is the South Kaibab Trail email address?

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