Where can I go Hiking and Backpacking?

There are a multitude of hiking trails in Grand Canyon National Park and these are only a few.

South Rim

Rim Trail
Taking the Rim Trail for a Grand Canyon hiking experience is great for families. You can take a shuttle to one viewpoint and hike a relatively short distance to another and take the shuttle back. The scenery along the rim is fantastic.

• Distance: up to 12 miles
• Average Time: varies depending on where you start and end
• Elevation Gain: 300 feet
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Type: One way paved
• Trailhead: Start at any viewpoint within Grand Canyon Village

Bright Angel Trail
This is one of the most popular trails in Grand Canyon National Park, descending to the Colorado River. Always be sure you are prepared for a safe journey by carrying plenty of water, and eating a lot of food for energy.

• Distance: 19.2 miles
• Average Time: 2 days
• Elevation Gain: 4420 feet
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Trail Type: Out and back
• Trailhead: On the South Rim west of Kolb Studio

South Kaibab Trail
Hiking Grand Canyon has never been better on this trail which takes you into the Canyon. Great views even if you only go part way.

• Distance: 6 miles
• Average Time: 4 to 5 hours
• Elevation Gain: 4620 feet
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Trail Type: One way
• Trailhead: South Rim just south of Yaki Point on the Yaki Point Road

Hermit Trail
This trail isn’t maintained, so requires you to be cautious when hiking here. You can go all the way to Dripping Springs or turn back after visiting Santa Maria Spring (5 miles round trip).

• Distance: 7 miles
• Average Time: 5 to 6 hours
• Elevation Gain: -1500 feet
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Trail Type: Out and back
• Trailhead: Starts a short distance west of Hermits Rest at the end of Hermit Road

North Rim

Bright Angel Point Trail
This trail ends at Bright Angel Point and provides spectacular views of Grand Canyon. It’s ideal for families with small children.

• Distance: .05 miles
• Average Time: 30 minutes
• Elevation Gain: -50 feet
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Type: Out and back paved
• Trailhead: Starts at the parking lot at the visitor center at the North Rim Village.

North Kaibab Trail
This is the king of Grand Canyon hiking trails on the North Rim. You’ll enjoy the amazing beauty of the canyon as you hike, even a short hike to Coconino Overlook. You can continue on to the bottom of the Grand Canyon at Ribbon Falls, but this is a long multi-day backpacking trip (16.8 miles round trip).

• Distance: 9.4 miles to Roaring Springs
• Average Time: depends where you end your hike and turn around
• Elevation Gain: 5841 feet
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Trail Type: Out and back
• Trailhead: Starts at the parking area that is two miles north of Grand Canyon Lodge off the main park road.

Cape Royal Trail
Enjoy markers along the trail which tell of the area’s natural history, and be sure to bring along your camera for photos of Angels Window.

• Distance: .06 miles
• Average Time: 30 minutes
• Elevation Gain: 10 feet
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Type: Out and back paved
• Trailhead: Start at the southeast of Cape Royal parking lot

Point Imperial Trail
Move through an old burn area and see how the new plant life is thriving, and enjoy meadows of wildflowers. Swing out to the rim for amazing views of Marble Canyon.

• Distance: 4 miles
• Average Time: 2 hours
• Elevation Gain: 20 feet
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Type: Out and back
• Trailhead: At the Point Imperial parking area

I am looking for a Hiking and Backpacking guide

Find the best of Grand Canyon National Park hiking and backpacking by checking the listings on this page to find the perfect guide and outfitter for your trip. Their expertise will ensure your adventure is the ultimate in Grand Canyon experiences.