South Rim Trail: A Canyon's Edge Journey

Experience the grandeur of the Grand Canyon along this accessible rim trail, offering stunning views and historical insights.

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The South Rim Trail at Grand Canyon National Park offers unparalleled views of the canyon's vastness. This mostly paved, accessible path stretches for 13 miles along the rim, providing numerous viewpoints and historical landmarks, making it a must-do for visitors of all abilities.

A brief summary to South Rim Trail

Rim Trail, Grand Canyon Village, Arizona, 86023, US
+1928-638-7888
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Local tips

Utilize the free shuttle service to access various points along the South Rim Trail, especially during peak season to avoid parking hassles.
Bring water and sun protection, as the Arizona sun can be intense, even on seemingly easy walks.
Check the weather forecast before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly at the Grand Canyon.
Take advantage of the interpretive programs and exhibits along the trail to learn about the canyon's geology and history.
Arrive early or stay late to witness the sunrise or sunset over the canyon, offering unforgettable views.

Getting There

Walking

From the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, follow the paved Rim Trail west towards Mather Point, a short, easy walk with stunning views. Continue along the trail to reach Yavapai Geology Museum, approximately 0.7 miles from Mather Point. No costs are associated with walking this section of the trail.
Public Transport

From anywhere in Grand Canyon Village, take the free Blue Route shuttle bus to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center. From there, access the Rim Trail and Mather Point. The shuttle is free, making this a convenient option. Shuttles arrive every 15-30 minutes.
Parking

If driving, park at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center. Parking is free, but lots often fill by late morning, especially during peak season. From the parking area, it's a short walk to the Rim Trail and Mather Point. As an alternative, consider parking at Lot D and walking to the Hermit Road Shuttle, Bright Angel Trailhead, and the Village Historic District.

Discover more about South Rim Trail

The South Rim Trail is a crown jewel of Grand Canyon National Park, offering an accessible and breathtaking journey along the canyon's edge. Stretching 13 miles from South Kaibab Trailhead to Hermits Rest, the mostly paved trail provides a relatively easy walk with constant panoramic views. Beginning at the South Kaibab Trailhead, the easternmost point accessible by shuttle, the trail meanders westward, passing iconic viewpoints like Mather Point and Yavapai Point. Mather Point, near the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, is a popular spot for sunset photos. Yavapai Point features a geology museum, offering insights into the canyon's formation. As the trail progresses through Grand Canyon Village, it weaves past historic buildings like the El Tovar Hotel and Kolb Studio. The Trail of Time, a 1.5-mile section near Verkamps Visitor Center, showcases the canyon's geological history with rock samples and timeline markers. This section provides an educational detour, illustrating the canyon's formation over millions of years. The South Rim has a rich history, evolving from early settlements and mining claims to a premier tourist destination. The arrival of the railroad in 1901 transformed the area, bringing increased accessibility and development. The Kolb brothers documented the canyon's grandeur through photography, while businesses like Verkamp's Curios and the El Tovar Hotel catered to the growing number of visitors. Accessibility is a key feature of the South Rim Trail, with most of the path paved and relatively flat. This allows visitors of all abilities to experience the canyon's beauty. The park also offers accessible shuttle buses and services to accommodate visitors with mobility concerns.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Trail Of Time: Headquarters Portal Parking Lot A

0.1 km

Explore 4.56 billion years of geological history on this accessible trail with breathtaking Grand Canyon views.

Trail Of Time: Headquarters Portal Parking Lot A

Grand Canyon Pioneer Cemetery

0.5 km

Discover the stories of pioneers and visionaries at the Grand Canyon Pioneer Cemetery, a place of history and remembrance.

El Tovar Hotel

0.9 km

Experience timeless elegance at El Tovar Hotel, a historic Grand Canyon landmark offering unparalleled access to breathtaking views and exceptional dining.

Grand Canyon Museum Collection

1.0 km

Explore the Grand Canyon's past through a vast collection of artifacts and research materials, preserving the legacy of this natural wonder.

1.5 Mile Resthouse

1.1 km

A perfect taste of the Grand Canyon: hike the iconic Bright Angel Trail to the 1.5 Mile Resthouse for stunning views and a moderate challenge.

Bright Angel Lodge

1.2 km

Experience the Grand Canyon's history and beauty at Bright Angel Lodge, a rustic retreat with stunning views and historic charm.

Hermit Rd

1.6 km

Discover unparalleled Grand Canyon views along Hermit Road: a scenic 7-mile journey accessible by free shuttle, bike, or foot!

Maswik Gift Shop

1.6 km

Discover unique Grand Canyon souvenirs and local crafts at Maswik Gift Shop, your essential stop in Grand Canyon Village.

Grand Canyon Visitor Center Westbound - Kaibab Rim (Orange Route)

1.7 km

Your gateway to exploring the South Rim, providing access to stunning views, educational exhibits, and the Grand Canyon's free shuttle system.

Grand Canyon Visitor Center Westbound - Kaibab Rim (Orange Route)

Havasupai Garden Ranger Station

2.0 km

A vital stop along the Bright Angel Trail, offering information, respite, and a glimpse into the Grand Canyon's history and natural beauty.

Havasupai Garden Visitor Information Station

2.2 km

Discover the Grand Canyon's hidden gems at the Havasupai Garden Visitor Information Station, your gateway to adventure and natural beauty.

Masonic Grand Canyon Degree Memorial

2.7 km

Honoring Freemasonry with panoramic Grand Canyon views, a serene landmark blending history and natural beauty.

Hopi Point

3.1 km

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Grand Canyon from Hopi Point, a prime spot for sunrise and sunset on the South Rim.

Pipe Creek Vista

3.3 km

Experience panoramic Grand Canyon views from Pipe Creek Vista, a serene and accessible overlook on the South Rim.

Cedar Ridge

3.5 km

Hike the South Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge for panoramic Grand Canyon views and a taste of the canyon's vastness.

Unmissable attractions to see

Rim Trail

0.1 km

Discover the stunning Rim Trail of the Grand Canyon, where breathtaking views and natural beauty await every traveler.

Shrine of the Ages

0.5 km

Experience serenity and spiritual gatherings at the Shrine of the Ages, a stunning venue in Grand Canyon Village with breathtaking views.

Grand Canyon Park Headquarters

0.6 km

Visit Grand Canyon Park Headquarters for insights, maps, and breathtaking views that enhance your exploration of this iconic natural wonder.

Verkamp's Visitor Center

0.8 km

Experience the Grand Canyon like never before at Verkamp's Visitor Center, your gateway to breathtaking views and essential visitor information.

Hopi House

0.8 km

Explore the cultural heritage of the Hopi people at the historic Hopi House in Grand Canyon Village, home to exquisite Native American crafts and stunning architecture.

Grand Canyon Railway

0.8 km

Discover breathtaking views and rich history on the Grand Canyon Railway, your gateway to a remarkable adventure at one of nature's greatest wonders.

Grand Canyon

0.9 km

Explore the breathtaking beauty and geological wonders of the Grand Canyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and nature's masterpiece.

2 Rim Trail #2

0.9 km

Discover the stunning vistas and rich wildlife of the Rim Trail at Grand Canyon—an unforgettable adventure for every nature lover.

Grandeur Point

0.9 km

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Grand Canyon from this easily accessible point along the South Rim Trail.

Yavapai Viewpoint Rd

1.0 km

Experience breathtaking views and geological wonders at Yavapai Viewpoint, a must-visit destination in the heart of Grand Canyon Village, Arizona.

Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute

1.0 km

Discover the Grand Canyon's beauty and history at the Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute, your ultimate destination for adventure and education.

Trail of Time

1.0 km

Walk through time along the South Rim, exploring the Grand Canyon's geological history one million years at a time on this accessible trail.

1 Bright Angel Trail

1.1 km

Descend into the Grand Canyon on this iconic trail, revealing breathtaking vistas and a journey through geological history.

N Vlg Lp

1.1 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Grand Canyon Village, your gateway to the majestic Grand Canyon National Park.

Three Mile Resthouse

1.1 km

Explore the breathtaking Three Mile Resthouse, an essential stop on the Bright Angel Trail in the Grand Canyon, offering stunning views and vital amenities.

Experience rustic charm and local flavors at Fred Harvey Tavern in Grand Canyon Village – your perfect post-adventure dining spot.

Maswik Lodge

1.6 km

Discover comfort and adventure at Maswik Lodge, your gateway to exploring the majestic Grand Canyon.

Maswik Food Court

1.6 km

Discover delicious dining at Maswik Food Court in Grand Canyon National Park—where flavor meets convenience amidst stunning scenery.

We Cook Pizza and Pasta

9.2 km

Experience delicious pizza and authentic Italian dishes at We Cook Pizza and Pasta in Grand Canyon Village – perfect for adventurers seeking culinary delights.

Yippee-Ei-O! Steakhouse

9.2 km

Savor mouthwatering steaks at Yippee-Ei-O! Steakhouse in Grand Canyon Village - where flavor meets adventure amidst stunning natural beauty.

R&J's Mexican Food Truck

9.3 km

Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at R&J's Food Truck near the Grand Canyon – where flavor meets adventure.

Explorers Cafe & Pizza Hut Express

9.3 km

Experience delightful dining at Explorers Cafe & Pizza Hut Express in Grand Canyon Village - where delicious pizza meets stunning natural beauty.

Discover the Grand Canyon like never before at Bright Angel Bikes & Café, where adventure meets great American cuisine.

Bright Angel Bikes & Café at Grand Canyon Visitor Center

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Roughrider Saloon

16.9 km

Discover the rustic charm of Roughrider Saloon, a cozy coffee shop in North Rim, Arizona, offering delightful brews and stunning canyon views.

Kaibab Lodge

39.6 km

Experience the rustic charm and natural beauty of Kaibab Lodge, your perfect base for exploring the Grand Canyon.

Kaibab Plateau

58.5 km

Discover the stunning beauty of Kaibab Plateau in Arizona, a natural paradise offering breathtaking views and unforgettable outdoor adventures.

Kaibab Camper Village

Discover the essence of craft brewing at Grand Canyon Brewing + Distillery, a must-visit destination for food and beer lovers alike, in Williams, Arizona.

Sultana Bar

90.1 km

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and historic charm of Sultana Bar on Route 66, a perfect stop for travelers seeking local culture and fun.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover South Rim Trail with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

South Rim Trail: A Canyon's Edge Journey

A brief summary to South Rim Trail

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Parking

Unlock the Best of South Rim Trail

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about South Rim Trail

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Trail Of Time: Headquarters Portal Parking Lot A

Grand Canyon Pioneer Cemetery

El Tovar Hotel

Grand Canyon Museum Collection

1.5 Mile Resthouse

Bright Angel Lodge

Hermit Rd

Maswik Gift Shop

Grand Canyon Visitor Center Westbound - Kaibab Rim (Orange Route)

Havasupai Garden Ranger Station

Havasupai Garden Visitor Information Station

Masonic Grand Canyon Degree Memorial

Hopi Point

Pipe Creek Vista

Cedar Ridge

Unmissable attractions to see

Rim Trail

Shrine of the Ages

Grand Canyon Park Headquarters

Verkamp's Visitor Center

Hopi House

Grand Canyon Railway

Grand Canyon

2 Rim Trail #2

Grandeur Point

Yavapai Viewpoint Rd

Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute

Trail of Time

1 Bright Angel Trail

N Vlg Lp

Three Mile Resthouse

Essential places to dine

Yavapai Lodge

Yavapai Lodge Dining Hall

Yavapai Tavern

El Tovar cocktail lounge

Grand Canyon Beer Garden

El Tovar Dining Room

Arizona Steakhouse

Harvey House Cafe

Fred Harvey Tavern

Maswik Lodge

Maswik Food Court

We Cook Pizza and Pasta

Yippee-Ei-O! Steakhouse

R&J's Mexican Food Truck

Explorers Cafe & Pizza Hut Express

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Canyon Closet - Grand Canyon School PTA

Xanterra Garage

Grand Canyon Outfitters

General Store

Grand Canyon Village Market & Deli

Yavapai Café

Market Plaza Parking - Lot B

Grand Canyon Conservancy

Camper Services And Camp Store

Mather Campground Camp Store

Grand Canyon Community Recreation Center

Bright Angel Gift Shop

North Country HealthCare - Grand Canyon

The Fountain

Bright Angel Bikes & Café at Grand Canyon Visitor Center

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Roughrider Saloon

Kaibab Lodge

Kaibab Plateau