Enjoy it while visiting Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona
At the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, you’ll find the starting point of the South Kaibab Trail. This trail takes you deep into the canyon, all the way down to the Colorado River. With its open ridgelines, the 6.3-mile South Kaibab Trail provides stunning panoramic views of the Grand Canyon from every angle. Be aware, though, that this trail has no shade or protection from the sun and passing storms. You can access the trailhead near Yaki Point by taking the free park shuttles.
If you’re short on time and just want a glimpse of the trail, you can embark on a shorter journey. Ooh-Ahh Point is a round trip of 1.8 miles, while Cedar Ridge is a round trip of 3 miles. However, beyond Cedar Ridge, it’s important to note that day hikes are not recommended due to limited water availability and challenging trail conditions, as advised by the National Park Service. Instead of going back up the canyon via the South Kaibab Trail, the NPS suggests ascending through the Bright Angel Trail.
Planning ahead is highly recommended for those who are interested in hiking South Kaibab, especially during the winter season. Numerous previous travelers, including families and seniors, have visited Ooh-Ahh Point, and they all agree that the stunning canyon views make it a worthwhile challenge. It’s important to note that some visitors have observed increased trail activity during the early morning hours.