11+ Best Grand Canyon Hikes South Rim

With so many hikes worthy of being given the title of ‘best Grand Canyon hike’ on the South Rim Grand Canyon, knowing where to start can be difficult.

You’ve got so many options for length, difficulty, and the type of view you want to see.

Looking for Grand Canyon hikes that take you down into the Canyon itself? Then you’ll want the Bright Angel Trail of the South Kaibab Trail. What about hikes that take you along the rim? Then how about the Grand Canyon South Rim Trail?

The Grand Canyon…as the name suggests it’s an absolutely huge canyon and you’re truly spoiled for choice when it comes to hiking trails at the Grand Canyon South Rim.

This place will blow you away no matter how many times you see pictures of it. What better way to enjoy visiting the Grand Canyon South Rim than to get out there and do one (or more!) of the Grand Canyon South Rim’s best hikes? I honestly think that one of the top Grand Canyon activities is going for a hike.

The Grand Canyon National Park was one of the many canyons we ended up visiting as we toured around the United States on our three month road trip. It was, of course, one of the USA National Parks that I’d heard of and I was super excited to see it. Fortunately, it doesn’t disappoint, no matter how many photos you’ve seen of it.

This list of the best hikes in the Grand Canyon National Park includes a mix of challenging hikes that take you down to the canyon floor, as well as easier ones that see you follow the rim. Whichever type of Grand Canyon trail you opt for you’re sure to be blown away by the views in this USA National Park.

The Best hikes in Grand Canyon South Rim

If you’re looking to do some South Rim Grand Canyon hikes (and you totally should), you’re in luck! There’s quite a large variety of the types of Grand Canyon hiking trails available at the Grand Canyon’s South Rim.

So, whether you want to do some backpacking in the Grand Canyon on an overnighter while you hike to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, or would rather stay at the top of the canyon and do a one-day hike in the Grand Canyon South Rim, there’s something for everyone!

Some of the Grand Canyon’s best hikes are accessible from the South Rim!

These hikes are grouped into the best Grand Canyon hikes you can do in one day and overnight Grand Canyon hikes.

There’s no such thing as an easy hike to the Grand Canyon floor as the South Rim Grand Canyon trails are all pretty steep and it’s a long slog back to the top.

Grand Canyon hikes map

Below is a map of the day hiking in the Grand Canyon trails and the backpacking trails I mention below. I’ve put the trailheads or a marker along the trail rather than mapped out the whole of these Grand Canyon South Rim hiking trails. However, you can see trail maps for each trail linked in the descriptions below.

Simply click the image below (or here) to open up this Grand Canyon hiking trails map.

Day hikes in the Grand Canyon South Rim

AllTrails is my go-to hiking app for finding, planning, and navigating while I’m out on the trails. With offline maps on AllTrails+ you can be confident you’re still on the right track, even without mobile signal.

There are lots of day hikes at Grand Canyon South Rim and they have amazing views of the inner canyon.

You do not need a permit to do Grand Canyon day hikes and it can be a safer way to enjoy the sights on offer in the Grand Canyon National Park.

Check out these Grand Canyon trails in the South Rim.

The South Rim Trail Grand Canyon

• Distance: 20.4 km / 12.7 miles
• Time: 4-5 hours
• Elevation: 178 m / 574 ft
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail map on AllTrails+
• Note: There’s no water west of Bright Angel Lodge

Unlike the more challenging Rim to Rim hike, the Grand Canyon Rim Trail from the South Rim is a relaxing Grand Canyon walk.

Starting from the Grand Canyon Village, the trail stretches to Hermits Rest, treating you to amazing views as you pass some of the best palces to visit at the Grand Canyon like Yavapai Point and Hopi Point. Walking from the Grand Canyon South Rim Visitor’s Center (where parking is available) to nearby Mather Point or Yavapai Point for sunset is very popular, and for good reason!

This is one of the easiers hikes in the Grand Canyon South Rim because it’s mostly paved and ADA accessible. There are a few areas where its more of a dirt trail.

While you could hike the whole rim trail in the Grand Canyon, most people break this into sections, using the shuttle bus to get from place to place when they feel like it. For less experienced hikers or those short on time, this is the Grand Canyon’s best day hike.

One unique feature of the Rim Trail is that it stays on the upper part of the canyon instead of going down, making it the best choice for easy hikes Grand Canyon South Rim has to offer. It’s a fun adventure even for those who are not seasoned hikers or are looking for easier Grand Canyon South Rim trails.

Along the trail, you’ll find some interesting spots that are worth a visit. The Trail of Time, gives you an insight into the canyon’s geologic history. Then there’s the Yavapai Museum of Geology where you can learn about how the Grand Canyon was formed and Maricopa Point gives you a glimpse of the past, with old uranium mining equipment on display against the backdrop of amazing canyon views.

The Rim Trail at the Grand Canyon is often divided up into sections with these being popular South Rim Trail trails while hiking South Rim Grand Canyon:

• Monument Creek Vista to Hermits Rest: Easiest part as it’s mostly paved. This Grand Canyon walking track is also called the Hermit Road Greenway Trail.
• Pipe Creek Vista to Bright Angel Lodge: Has several steeper parts that should be avoided if you’ve limited mobility.
• Bright Angel Lodge to Powell Point: After Bright Angel Lodge, the trail becomes narrower, follows the Bright Angel Fault and begins to parallel Hermit Road.
• Powell Point to Monument Creek Vista: This segment of the trail consists of a dirt path three feet wide.

The Bright Angel Trail

• Distance: 24.6 km / 15.3 miles
• Time: 6-8 hours
• Elevation: 1365 m / 4478 ft
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail map on AllTrails+

For those seeking a bit more of a challenging Grand Canyon hike, the Bright Angel Trail is a good option.

This trail starts near the Bright Angel Lodge and goes for 12 miles to Plateau Point and back. You can decide how far you want to go, with markers placed at the 1.5 miles and 3-mile points.

If you’re hiking during the hot summer months, the National Park Service advise you not to go beyond Indian Garden Point due to the steep nature of the return climb. If you start in the morning you’ll have the hot sun on you on the way back uphill and it’s tiring enough as it is!

• 1.5 Mile Resthouse: The first part of the Bright Angel Trail up to the 1.5-Mile Resthouse offers a quick 3-mile return hike with numerous scenic views and small tunnels to explore. It’s a great way to get a taste of the Grand Canyon’s beauty without pushing your limits too much. (Trail map)
• 3 Mile Resthouse: If you’re looking for a longer hike, you can continue past the 1.5-Mile Resthouse to the 3-Mile Resthouse, extending your journey deeper into the canyon. This section of the trail is filled with beautiful views and rather a lot of switchbacks. (Trail map)
• Indian Garden / Havasupai Gardens: A popular day hike at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the Indian Garden, which is a pleasant, shaded area where you can take a break and have lunch before starting your climb back up. (Trail map)
• Plateau Point: If you’re very fit, experienced hiking in hot weather and looking for an adventure you can head past Indian Garden to Plateau Point. Here, you get amazing views of the Colorado River. Don’t push yourself too much though as the return up to the top of the canyon is very demanding. (Trail map)

South Kaibab Trail Grand Canyon

• Distance: 14.3 km / 8.9 miles (return to Tip Off point)
• Time: 6-8 hours
• Elevation: 992 m / 3255 ft
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail map on AllTrails+

The South Kaibab Trail is the trail that my husband and I hiked while at the Grand Canyon.

We didn’t hike all the way to the bottom but down as far as Cedar Ridge which is a 3 miles round trip hike. I’d recommend hiking to this point if you’re looking for a half-day hike in the Grand Canyon South Rim.

If you hike the South Kaibab trail in summer, the parks service recommend you don’t go past the Cedar Ridge marker.

The South Kaibab Trail begins just south of Yaki Point on Yaki Point Road. You’ll have to get the shuttle bus there.

If you’re looking for a short hike in the Grand Canyon which outstanding views I recommend going to Cedar Ridge, you don’t need to go much further to get amazing views.

However, if you want to go further, here’s what to expect.

• Ooh Aah Point: The easiest option (but still challenging on the return). This short distance takes you to Ooh Aah Point and some incredible Grand Canyon South Rim views. There are several boulders here to sit and take in the views. (2.9 km / 1.8 miles total)
• Cedar Ridge: Past Ooh Aah Point you’ll start heading down to Cedar Ridge for even more dramatic views of the Grand Canyon. Even though the distance might not be that long, remember you’ve got the way back up to go! Cedar Ridge also has a composting toilet. (5 km / 3.1 miles total)
• Skeleton Point: Here, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the Colorado River (turn left/west at Skeleton Point). The stunning views along the way are just the icing on the cake but be warned as Skeleton Point is double the distance of Cedar Ridge so makes for a challenging hike. (9.3 km / 5.8 miles total)
• The Tipoff: If you’re fit and want to go further, The Tipoff takes you to view points of the Colorado River and you might even be able to hear it rushing past. This is also the point from where you can take a left turn to continue on the Tonto Trail. (14.3 km / 8.9 miles total)
• South Kaibab to Phantom Ranch to Bright Angel: If you’re backpacking (see below) you can continue to Phantom Ranch to the Bright Angel Trail. This isn’t recommend for most people to attempt in one day.

Hermit Trail

• Distance: 28.2 km / 17.9 miles (to Hermit Rapids and back)
• Time: Best as an overnighter
• Elevation: 1528 m / 5013 ft
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail map on AllTrails+

The Hermit Trail is one of the best hikes at the Grand Canyon South Rim and is said to date back to 1911.

The trailhead for the hermit Trail is just west of the Hermits Rest shuttle stop and from March 1st to November 30th you must use the shuttle as no cars are permitted. Outside of these months you can use your own car.

The Hermit Trail stands out as one of the tougher routes, steeper than the Bright Angel and South Kaibab Trails. Its unmaintained nature adds a level of difficulty that only experienced desert hikers should tackle.

However, it’s a rewarding trail and one of six leading from the South Rim to the Colorado River. If you take on this Grand Canyon hike you’ll get to see gorges, waterfalls, and wide open landscapes deep in the canyon. In fact, this is one of the few Grand Canyon hikes with waterfalls

Another perk is that this is typically much quieter than the Bright Angel Trail and the South Kaibab.

The full Hermit Trail from the top of the Canyon down to Hermit Rapids is almost 18 miles long but you can split it into smaller sections to make this a good option for a more quieter day hiking trail in the Grand Canyon National Park.

• Dripping Springs Trail Junction: Dripping Springs, however, does make an excellent day hike destination. After the Dripping Springs trail junction, the Hermit Trail drops down along the east side of Hermit Creek gorge and going further is often not recommended in hotter months (2.8 km / 1.75 miles).
• Santa Maria Spring: The trail begins at Hermits Rest and travels along the trail until reaching Santa Maria Springs. This hidden spring is a great stopping point for a day hike. The natural beauty of the canyon walls surrounds the trail and there are many viewpoints out into the valley along the way. (6.4 km/ 4 miles. Trail map)
• Dripping Springs: a 6-mile round trip on a well-maintained trail along a ravine before reaching the rim of the Hermit Creek canyon. There are excellent views of Eremita Mesa and the Colorado River along the way. The trail eventually leads to Dripping Springs, where visitors enjoy the serene alcove of the spring. The water falls into a small pool below and connects with a stream leading down the canyon. (Trail map)

Grandview Trail

• Distance: 12.9 km / 8 miles
• Time: 8 hours
• Elevation: 833 m / 2733 ft
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail map on AllTrails+

Another awesome Grand Canyon hiking trail on the South Rim is the Grandview Trail.

This trail was built in 1893 as a mining route and is rocky, exposed, and strenuous so you’ll need to take care on this hike. There are large, uneven steps, sharp drop-offs, and an unmaintained path, this trail offers a challenging day hike ideal for experienced desert hikers. Remeber not push yourself too far (you’ve got to climb back up!).

The trail starts at the Grandview Point on Desert View Drive and in winter and early spring, ice can form on the upper sections, so it’s a good idea to have something like Yaktrax for extra grip.

• Coconino Saddle: Despite being narrow and steep in parts, the Grandview Trail is popular among hikers, especially the section to the Coconino Saddle viewpoint 1.1 miles down the trail.
• Horseshoe Mesa: Further down the canyon to Horseshoe Mesa you’ll find an undeveloped camping area and old copper mines. This is a common turn around point for many day hikers. (9 km / 5.6 miles. Trail map)

The Grandview Trail eventually splits into three separate trails, all intersecting with the Tonto Trail, offering even more hiking options.

Shoshone Point Trail

• Distance: 3.4 km / 2.1 miles
• Duration: 45 mins
• Elevation: 47 m / 154 ft
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail map

If you’re looking for a quiet hike and for Grand Canyon hikes easy rated, the Shoshone Point Trail is a great option.

This hike is not too long, only 2.1 miles, and isn’t particularly difficult either making it great walk.

This trail starts from an unmarked parking lot which is one of the reasons it’s not a very popular route – many people don’t even realize it’s there!

You can find this parking lot just after Yaki Point Road on Desert View Drive if you’re coming from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center. It’s a small area so try and get there earlier on in the day.

This Grand Canyon hike takes you through a pretty forest of tall, skinny trees called ponderosa pines. At the end of the hike, there’s a nice place to have a picnic and there’s a large rock formation standing all by itself which is kind of cool.

If you want to see the Grand Canyon, but avoid the tricky hikes down into it, this is a great option.

Mather Campground Trail

• Distance: 3.7 km / 2.3 miles
• Duration: 45 mins
• Elevation: 38 m / 125 ft
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail map

The Mather Campground Trail is a good choice if you’re looking for an easy walk in the Grand Canyon.

This loop trail isn’t particularly steep and so it’s a great hike with kids at the Grand Canyon or for those of you who’re tired from all the other exploring in this National Park!

You can even bring your dog on this trail as long as they’re kept on a leash which is pretty rare for many of the other Grand Canyon South Rim hikes.

This trail doesn’t have views of the Grand Canyon, but it takes you through to a nice campground. And, if you’re lucky, you might see some Elk along the way. Wile not one of the most impressive hikes on this list, it’s a good option if you’re looking for a relaxed walk in the Grand Canyon.

Grand Canyon backpacking

If you’re looking for Grand Canyon hikes to bottom of the canyon, then you’ll need to stay overnight. For backpacking in the Grand Canyon, Arizona you’ll need a backcountry permit for the Bright Angel Campground.

Backcountry Permits for Grand Canyon South Rim hikes

You will require a backcountry permit for overnight Grand Canyon camping outside of official campgrounds.

A backcountry permit costs $10 plus $12 per person, per night if below the rim and $4 per person, per night for camping above the rim. You must also pay the applicable park entrance fees (see above).

To get a backcountry permit for the Grand Canyon you must apply by completing this form and either faxing it, mailing it or presenting it to the Backcountry Information Centre at the South Rim.

Full details, including when to apply and the Backcountry Information Center can be found here.

Backcountry hikes to the bottom of the Grand Canyon

Due to the nature of the Grand Canyon’s climate and the trail conditions, backcountry camping and hiking to the canyon floor are recommended only to experienced desert hikers.

You can still have an awesome Grand Canyon hiking experience on any of the best Grand Canyon day hikes listed above, however, if you are experienced and want to do a longer hike here is some information on doing so.

The two trails from the South Rim which lead to the Bright Angel Campground at the bottom of the Grand Canyon start from the South Kaibab trailhead and the Bright Angel Trail via Bright Angel Point Trail.

South Kaibab Trail to Phantom Ranch / Bright Angel Campground

• Distance: 23 km / 14.3 miles
• Duration: Best as overnighter
• Elevation: 1485 m / 4872 ft
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail map

The distance from the trailhead to Bright Angel Campground on the South Kaibab trail is 7 miles one and it’s strongly recommended you spend the night at the bottom rather than trying to hike back to the rim in the same day.

There are no Grand Canyon south rim campgrounds along this trail until you get to Bright Angel and there’s no water along the trail either. You’ll also drop 4,700 ft in elevation between top to bottom which gives you some idea of the steep hike back up!

Along the way, there are a number of stunning vantage points, including Ooh Ahh Point, Cedar Ridge and Skeleton Point.

South Kaibab + Bright Angel Via Tonto Trail

• Distance: 21.2 km / 13.2 miles
• Time: Best as an overnighter
• Elevation: 1056 m / 3465 ft
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail map on AllTrails+

The South Kaibab and Bright Angel via Tonto Trail is a challenging hike that’s one of the best at the Grand Canyon South Rim.

It is not an out-and-back trail, rather it’s a point to point. You can use the shuttle bus to get back to where you started.

Descending down South Kaibab to The Tipoff, you’ll then switch onto the Tonto Trail. Here you’ll get a couple of miles of mostly-flat hiking across the Tonto Platform.

The trail then meets up with a junction for the Bright Angel just past the Indian Garden so this means you get to experience two of the most popular Grand Canyon hiking trails in one day.

However, you should avoid trying to hike this whole trail in a day during the summer since it gets super hot as you go deeper into the canyon and there’s limited shade.

Bright Angel Trail to Bright Angel Campground

• Distance: 31 km / 19.3 miles
• Duration: Best as 1-2 night trip
• Elevation: 1550 m / 5085 ft
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail map

The Bright Angel Trail Grand Canyon is slightly longer at 9.5 miles each way and so it’s recommended you take 2 days to complete this trail. You could walk all the way down to the Bright Angel Campground near Phantom Ranch Lodge, or you could shorten the trip and spend more nights camping since threre’s also the Havasupai Garden Campground.

There are some places you can get water along the trail (check the markers on the trail map) and you’ll need a backcountry permit in order to hike this as an overnighter.

Due to the length and elevation change on this trail, it is not recommend to attempt this in the warmer months.

Grand Canyon Rim to Rim Hike (South Kaibab North Kaibab)

• Distance: 32.8 km / 20.4 miles
• Duration: Best as a Grand Canyon backpacking trip
• Elevation: 1606 m / 5369 ft
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail map

You can also hike from rim to rim (north rim to south rim). Be aware that the Rim to Rim Grand Canyon hike is extremely challenging and will take you several days to complete and requires a lot of advance planning especially since it’s a one-way hike so you’ll need to arrange transport.

You’ll start by leaving form the North Kaibab Trail on the North Rim and descending 14.3 miles and 6,000 ft to the bottom of the canyon before joining the Bright Angel Trail (or the South Kaibab Trail) and climbing all the way back out again.

Along the way, there’s incredible scenery. You’ll hike through 2 billion years of natural history and 11 layers of ancient rock. It’s a once in a lifetime hike that will stick with you forever!

It’s not recommended to do the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim hike in one day but if you do think you’re physically fit and experienced enough you should speak to a ranger beforehand.

Is it possible to do the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim Hike in one day?

Can you hike from one side of the Grand Canyon to the other in one day? Well, teechnically yes. It is possible. Is it recommened? No.

Trail runners and fit and experisnced hikers can take on the Rim to Rim hike in one day (or even the rim to rim to rim!), but for most people this isn’t recommended.

If you’re visiting the Grand Canyon in summer then it’s definitely not recommended to attempt this in one day.

The hike is long and the Grand Canyon National Parks Service do not recommend doing it in one day.

While the first half seems easy since you’re just going downhille you need to remember the second half (when you’re tired already) is so much harder. You’ll be going uphill quite steeply and in heat.

Even if you’re very good at hiking, this isn’t something you should try unless you really know what you’re doing.

If you just want to see the Grand Canyon and have fun, you don’t have to go all the way to the bottom. You can still see a lot and have a great time without hiking that far.

Grand Canyon South Rim hikers express shuttle to South Kaibab Trail

If you want to hike the South Kaibab Trail, you’ll need to get to the start of the hike. You can either park your car about a mile away and walk, or you can take a special bus called the Kaibab shuttle.

When we hiked this trail, we took a bus called the hikers express shuttle to get to the start. This bus takes people from Grand Canyon village to the South Kaibab trail early in the morning so you can get started before things get too hot.

But remember, this bus only goes one way and doesn’t take you back to the Visitor Center. The times the bus leaves change depending on the time of year, so you can check the times here.

If you miss the hikers express shuttle, don’t worry. There are regular buses that take people to and from South Kaibab all day.

What to know before you hike in the Grand Canyon South Rim

Before you go hiking at the Grand Canyon, have a read of these things to know which cover Grand Canyon weather, mules on the trails and safety.

• Weather Conditions: The weather at the Grand Canyon can change suddenly. Summers can be extremely hot and dry, while winters can be snowy and icy.
• Packing Essentials: Always pack enough water due to limited water sources, and include sun protection for summer hikes and warm clothing for winter hikes.
• Checking Trail Conditions: Before setting off, check the conditions of the trails. Avoid hiking if conditions are unsafe.
• Hiking Experience: Prepare for a fast-paced hike down with significant impact on your joints and a slower, strenuous hike back up that can take twice as long.
• Safety Measures: Let someone know your itinerary. They can report to emergency services if you’re overdue.
• Encountering Mules: When mules approach, step off the trail on the uphill side and follow the directions of the wrangler. Stay quiet and don’t move until the mules are at least 50ft away.
• Hiking Strategy: Remember, going down is optional but coming up is mandatory. The hardest part of the hike is usually the climb back up.
• Water Supply: Carry more water than you think you’ll need, especially on hot days.
• Food Supply: Pack energy-boosting snacks. For longer hikes, consider bringing a hearty lunch.
• Toilet Supplies: Pack toilet paper, as trail toilets might not always be stocked.
• Time Management: Be mindful of the time to avoid getting caught in the canyon after dark.
• Temperature Changes: Keep in mind that for every 1,000 feet you descend into the canyon, the temperature can increase by about 5.5 degrees.
• Clothing: Depending on the season, dress in layers for your hike.
• Cell Phone Service: Don’t rely on having cell service in the Grand Canyon, as it’s typically unavailable.
• Maps: Carry a paper map of the trails, or have AllTrails Maps downloaded for offline use using AllTrails+, as the standard NPS brochure doesn’t include detailed hiking information.
• Sun Protection: Pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen because most of the trails don’t offer much shade.
• Hike Duration: Don’t feel obliged to reach common stopping points. Turn around when you’re ready.

What to pack for the best Grand Canyon hikes South Rim

This packing list for hiking in the Grand Canyon National Park includes pretty much everything you’ll need for the best hikes South Rim Grand Canyon has to offer. Check out my day hiking packing list for more items you shouldn’t foget.

• Hiking Boots/ Trail Running Shoes: Comfortable and well-broken-in, suitable for rocky and potentially steep terrain.
• Moisture-Wicking Socks: Helps prevent blisters.
• Moisture-Wicking Underwear: For comfort during long hikes.
• Hiking Pants or Shorts: Consider convertible pants for changing weather conditions.
• Quick-Drying T-Shirts: Consider both short-sleeved and long-sleeved for sun protection.
• Insulating Layer: Fleece or down jacket for cooler mornings or evenings.
• Waterproof Jacket: Lightweight and packable, for sudden rain showers or wind.
• Hat: For sun protection; a wide-brimmed one would be ideal.
• Gloves: For cooler months or early mornings.
• Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the intense sun.
• Backpack: Comfortable, with a good harness and sufficient capacity for your gear.
• Hiking Poles: To help with balance and reduce strain on joints during steep ascents/descents.
• Water Bottles or Hydration Bladder: Ensure it has enough capacity for long hikes.
• High-Energy Food: Trail mix, energy bars, dried fruit, nuts, and a packed lunch for longer hikes.
• Headlamp: With extra batteries, for safety and in case of an unplanned late return.
• Multi-Tool or Knife: Handy for various situations, including first aid.
• Camera: Optional, for capturing the stunning views.
• First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, medical tape, painkillers, and any personal medication.
• Sunscreen: High SPF, waterproof sunscreen.
• Lip Balm: With sun protection.
• Insect Repellent: Depending on the season.
• Hand Sanitizer: For hygiene before eating or after using the toilet.
• Toilet Paper/Wet Wipes: Essential for hikes without bathroom facilities OR a Kula cloth.
• Emergency Shelter or Bivy Sack: Especially important for multi-day hikes.
• Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or Satellite Messenger: In case of an emergency in an area without cell service. I have a Garmin InReach.

Remember, all gear should be tailored to the specific trail, the time of year, and the weather conditions expected on your hike. Always double-check everything before you set off and remember to tell someone your plans before you leave!

Where is the Grand Canyon South Rim?

The Grand Canyon is in the state of Arizona. There are two official entrances to the National Park; the north rim entrance and the south rim entrance. There’s also another area known as Grand Canyon West. The west isn’t managed by the parks service, but rather by the Hualapai Tribe.

The Grand Canyon National Park South Rim is 60 miles north of Williams, Arizona. The whole of the Grand Canyon’s location is within the state of Arizona and about 81 miles away from Flagstaff, Arizona.

Grand Canyon South Rim entrance fees

Entrance fees to the Grand Canyon National Park cost $35 per car, this lasts for 7 days and includes both the North Rim and South Rim. If you’re entering by foot, bike, or shuttle bus then the entrance fee is $20 per person.

Get a USA National Parks Pass for just $80 and save a tonne of money if you’re planning on visiting multiple National Parks in a year, or visiting the same one more than once!

You can now buy your Grand Canyon National Park pass online, or at the visitors’ centers in the following towns: Williams, Flagstaff, and the Tusayan National Geographic Visitor Centre (IMAX Theatre).

When is the best time to visit the Grand Canyon South Rim for hiking?

The optimal time for hiking at the Grand Canyon South Rim is typically early spring and fall when the temperatures are more managable.

Spring (from March to May): A good choice if you prefer mild temperatures and less crowded trails. The weather is usually pleasant, with high temperatures averaging between 54°F (12°C) in March and 70°F (21°C) in May. Additionally, there are fewer visitors compared to the summer months.

Summer (from June to August): Is usually not recommended for all-day hikes or going to the bottom of the canyon. The South Rim temperatures are cooler than in the Inner Canyon, with highs between 77°F (25°C) in June and 80°F (27°C) in July and August but it can still get quite hot. This is also the peak tourist season due to school holidays.

Autumn (from September to November): Good option for cooler temperatures and reduced crowds. The weather begins to cool down, with highs dropping from 73°F (23°C) in September to 53°F (12°C) in November.

Winter (from December to February): Though beautiful with snowfall, can be challenging for hiking due to colder temperatures ranging from 45°F (7°C) in December to 41°F (5°C) in February, and the possibility of snowy or icy trails.

Where to stay near the Grand Canyon South Rim

The Grand Canyon’s popularity as a tourist destination means there are ample accommodations within and nearby the National Park boundaries.

Hotels within the Grand Canyon South Rim

Staying within the National Park is a fantastic option! Here are some hotels located inside the Grand Canyon South Rim.

• Yavapai Lodge: An excellent lodge at the Grand Canyon South Rim, conveniently located near the Grand Canyon National Park Headquarters and the Grand Canyon South Rim Visitor Center
• El Tovar Hotel: Features an onsite café and bar, making it a suitable choice for accommodations in the South Rim.
• Bright Angel Lodge: Highly rated by visitors, this lodge is one of the top accommodations at the Grand Canyon South Rim.
• Kachina Lodge: Known for great reviews and a complimentary shuttle that covers a 25-mile radius.
• Maswik Lodge: Features an onsite restaurant and a free shuttle service.
• Thunderbird Lodge: Centrally located in Grand Canyon Village Arizona, offering magnificent views and a prime location.

Glamping + Hotels close to Grand Canyon South Rim (outside the park)

These Tusayan hotels near the Grand Canyon South Rim come highly recommended on Booking.com. They include camping and glamping options and are very close to the south rim park entrance.

• Under Canvas Grand Canyon: Located in Valle, providing unique tent accommodations with a restaurant on-site serving locally sourced seasonal food items.
• The Aztec Motel & Creative Space: Offers air-conditioned rooms with a desk and fridge in Seligman, with free WiFi and parking, 110 km from Ernest A Love Field Airport.
• Little America Hotel Flagstaff: A vast hotel set on 500 acres of Ponderosa Pine forest near I-40, providing free WiFi and airport shuttle service, an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a bar.
• The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon: A 5-star hotel located 11 km from Grand Canyon Village in Tusayan, offering non-smoking rooms, a restaurant, a bar, an indoor pool, and free WiFi.
• Grand Canyon RV Glamping: Provides a comfortable stay in Williams with features like free WiFi, private parking, air-conditioned rooms with a flat-screen TV and fridge, and access to activities like hiking.
• Clear Sky Resorts – Grand Canyon – Unique Sky Domes: 47 km from Grand Canyon Village, offering unique dome lodging, a bar, free private parking, and a restaurant serving American-style food with a range of dietary options.
• Wander Camp Grand Canyon: Provides tented camp lodging in Valle Grand Canyon Junction Arizona, 24 km from Grand Canyon National Park Airport.

Camping at Grand Canyon South Rim

Three camping areas at Grand Canyon South Rim offer camping options. Mather Campground and Trailer Village are within Grand Canyon Village, and Desert View is 25 miles to the east. There are also backcountry camping options which are included with the relevant hikes to get there, above.

• Mather Campground: Reservations are suggested, there are no RV hookups, $18 per site, per night.
• Trailer Village: Offers RV hookups. It isn’t owned by the National Parks Service (NPS) and offers additional amenities.
• Desert View Campground: Operates on a first-come, first-served basis (no reservations), $12 per site, per night, no electric hookups. Usually full by noon. Closed in winter.

Camping outside the Grand Canyon National Park

If the campsites inside the park are full, there are several other RV parks and campgrounds outside the Grand Canyon South Rim.

• Ten-X Campground: Located just 4 miles south of the Grand Canyon South Rim entrance. Standard, non-electric sites are $10 per site, per night. Suitable for both RV and tents.
• Grand Canyon Camper Village: Situated in Tusayan, this privately-owned site offers RV sites with hookups.

Camping at Grand Canyon South Rim

There are three Grand Canyon South Rim camping areas that allow you to go camping in Grand Canyon South Rim. There’s Mather Campground, Trailer Village, and Desert View Campground. The first two are within Grand Canyon Village and Desert View is 25 miles to the east.

How to book Phantom Lodge Grand Canyon

Phantom Ranch is a super cool place to stay in the Grand Canyon National Park. It’s at the bottom of the canyon and is accessible via a hike from the South Rim via the South Kaibab Trail, or the Bright Angel Trail.

It gets booked up quickly so you’ll need to plan your trip well ahead of time. If you’re considering it, here’s what you need to know before hiking the Grand Canyon to Phantom Ranch.

• Booking Process: Phantom Ranch is very popular, reservations are often obtained through an online lottery system 15 months before your planned stay.
• Types of Lodging: Phantom Ranch offers dormitory-style rooms and private cabins. The dorms are divided by gender, each equipped with 5 bunk beds to host 10 guests. Cabins can house 2 to 6 guests, depending on their size.
• Pricing: Dormitory beds cost around $70 per person, per night, whereas cabins start from roughly $213.50 per night. Meal prices are extra, with breakfast at $29.50, packed lunch at $24.43, and dinner (with options for steak or stew, and vegetarian meals) ranging from $39.05 – $58.23
• Facilities and Food: Given its secluded setting, facilities are basic but adequate. Phantom Ranch offers bedding, restrooms, and showers. You can book meals (breakfast and dinner) in advance when you reserve your stay. You also have the option for packed meals. There’s a canteen where you can buy snacks and beverages.

FAQs on the best Grand Canyon hikes South Rim

Final thoughts on the best hikes Grand Canyon South Rim has to offer

Exploring the Grand Canyon by foot is an amazing experience. You’ll see beautiful views and test your hiking skills and fitness if you decide to go hiking Grand Canyon South Rim ‘s harder trails.

However, there are Grand Canyon trails for everyone, from expert hikers to beginners as this list of the best South Rim Grand Canyon hikes has shown.

If you’re looking for more national park hiking roundups then be sure to check out the best hikes at Zion National Park which include hiking Angel’s Landing, visit Saguaro National Park, or check out these hikes at Bryce Canyon National Park.

If you’re doing a USA road trip, be sure to check out these free things to do in Vegas, and it’s worth making a detour for a tour of Antelope Canyon too.

Last Updated on August 2, 2023 by Hannah