Day Hikes in the Grand Canyon: A Guide for Visitors Visiting the Grand Canyon without taking at least a short hike into its depths (if you’re physically able) or a walk along the rim is like going to the beach and not putting your feet in the water. Hiking to the bottom of the canyon is a serious undertaking, however. Even experienced hikers find that hiking into the Grand Canyon the first time is a very different experience from typical hikes, and everyone, regardless of hiking ability, reports that it’s harder than they imagined. Temperatures can soar in the canyon, especially in the summer months, making it essential for all hikers to be prepared with adequate food, water, and sun protection, and to understand the risks and requirements in advance. Hiking from the rim to the canyon floor, and back, in one day is highly discouraged. Unless you plan to camp down in the canyon and have the necessary equipment and permits, there are numerous day hikes of varying distances and difficulty that still offer spectacular views and plenty of exercise. Here are some South Rim and North Rim day hikes to consider during your visit to the Grand Canyon. South Rim Day Hikes Bright Angel Trail: A steep trail that offers spectacular canyon views, the Bright Angel trailhead sits just west of Bright Angel Lodge. There is some shade along the trail, but be prepared to be in the sun most of the time. Day hikes on Bright Angel range in distance up to 12 miles round trip. Hiking to the 1.5 mile Resthouse and back (3 miles roundtrip) is good for firsttime canyon hikers, while experienced, well-prepared hikers might choose the 12-mile round trip hike to Plateau Point and back. There is seasonal water on the Bright Angel Trail, but this is subject to pipeline breaks. Check with the Visitor Center or Backcountry Center for information about water. Rim Trail: Excellent for those looking for an easy, flat hike, the Rim Trail extends from the village area to Hermit’s Rest. Pick up the mostly paved trail from any viewpoint in Grand Canyon Village or anyplace along Hermit Road. There is no water west of Bright Angel Lodge. The trail offers excellent views into the canyon. South Kaibab Trail: This trail begins on Yaki Point Road south of Yaki Point, and is accessible by shuttle bus. The trail offers up to 6 miles of round trip hiking and excellent views, given the relatively short distance. It is a steep trail with no water, though water may be available at the trailhead, depending on the season. North Rim Day Hikes North Kaibab Trail The North Kaibab trail offers a variety of day hikes and is the only maintained trail into the canyon from the North Rim. Hikers on the trail pass through every type of ecosystem found from
Canada to Mexico—from fir and aspen trees to desert vegetation, the trail offers a remarkable look at different ecosystems. There are short hikes ranging from 1.5 miles roundtrip to more extensive hikes. Round trip to the Colorado River is 28 miles and should never be attempted in a single day. Uncle Jim Trail For a 5-mile round trip hike through the forest, the Uncle Jim Trail is ideal. The highlight is an overlook of the canyon and North Kaibab Trail switchbacks. The trail begins at the North Kaibab Trail parking lot. Widforss Trail This 10-mile round trip hike blends forest and canyon scenery. To get to the trailhead, take the dirt road located .25 miles south of Cape Royal Road for 1 mile until you spot the Widforss Trail parking area. Hiking Tips Steep climbs and hot, dry desert conditions make the Grand Canyon a challenge for even the most experienced hikers. Follow these rules to ensure your dream trip doesn’t turn into a nightmare. First and foremost, know your abilities, and don’t take on more than you can handle. It’s easy to forget that what goes down must come back up! If you hike into the canyon for any distance, expect to take twice as long hiking out. Carry plenty of water and salty snacks. Take a break at least once every hour, which helps the body remove metabolic waste. Pace yourself—if you’re huffing and puffing, you’re overexerting yourself. Carry as little as possible, except for food and water. Use well-broken-in, well-fitting hiking boots. Bring these essentials: small flashlight and change of batteries, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, map, compass, small signal mirror. This is just a small sampling of day hikes in the Grand Canyon. For a full list, visit the National Park Service website. The Grand Canyon offers incredible views and a variety of activities, from hiking, to rafting, to camping. No trip to the area is complete without a Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour—an aerial view of the canyon is an exhilarating and unforgettable experience.