Grand Canyon Rim Trail

About Grand Canyon Rim Trail

The Grand Canyon Rim Trail is the most accessible way to experience the South Rim and offers some of the most famous views on the planet without requiring any serious hiking ability. Stretching up to 13 miles from the South Kaibab Trailhead on the east to Hermit's Rest on the west, this mostly paved path follows the canyon's edge through Grand Canyon Village and along the scenic Hermit Road, connecting dozens of named viewpoints along the way. You do not need to walk the entire trail to have a fantastic experience.

The beauty of the Rim Trail is its flexibility. Frequent shuttle stops along the route allow you to walk as much or as little as you like, hopping on and off the bus to customize your outing. Many visitors choose to walk the section between Mather Point and Bright Angel Lodge, a roughly 2.

5-mile stretch that passes the Yavapai Geology Museum and several spectacular overlooks. This segment is paved, mostly level, and suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. For a longer and less crowded walk, the western section along Hermit Road from Powell Point to Hermit's Rest spans about seven miles and passes through a quieter, more contemplative stretch of rim.

Hermit Road is closed to private vehicles for most of the year, so the only traffic you will encounter is the occasional shuttle bus. Named viewpoints along this section include Hopi Point, known for its wide-angle sunset views, Mohave Point with its views of the Colorado River rapids, and The Abyss, where the canyon wall drops over 3,000 feet straight down in a sheer vertical face that is genuinely dizzying. Each viewpoint offers a distinctly different perspective on the canyon's architecture, proving that no two views of the Grand Canyon are truly alike.

The Rim Trail is the only trail in the park that allows leashed dogs, making it the go-to option for visitors traveling with pets. It is also one of the few places in the park where bicycles are allowed on the paved portions. Water and restrooms are available at multiple points along the route, and food service is accessible at Bright Angel Lodge, Hermit's Rest, and other locations in Grand Canyon Village.

Year-round accessibility makes this trail a reliable option in every season. Winter brings smaller crowds, occasional dustings of snow on the rim, and extraordinarily clear views. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures.

Summer is the busiest season, with the largest crowds concentrated between 10 AM and 4 PM. Early morning and late afternoon walks are the most pleasant and photogenic times to be on the Rim Trail.

Best Time to Hike

Best Season: Year-round

For the most comfortable experience on Grand Canyon Rim Trail, plan your hike during the recommended season. In the warmer months, start early in the morning to avoid peak heat, especially on exposed desert trails. Always check current weather conditions and trail status before heading out.