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Cedar Ridge: A Grand Canyon Vista

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

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Cedar Ridge, accessible via the South Kaibab Trail, offers hikers stunning panoramic views of the Grand Canyon. This popular day-hike destination rewards visitors with a relatively easy introduction to the canyon's immensity.

A brief summary to Cedar Ridge

  • S Kaibab Trail, Grand Canyon Village, Arizona, 86023, US
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Local tips

  • Start your hike early, especially in summer, to avoid the heat and direct sun exposure on the trail.
  • Bring plenty of water, as there are no water sources along the South Kaibab Trail.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction, as the trail is steep and rocky.
  • Take the free shuttle bus to the South Kaibab Trailhead, as parking is restricted.
  • Be aware of the altitude and take your time, especially on the ascent.
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Getting There

  • Shuttle Bus

    To reach the South Kaibab Trailhead, take the free Kaibab Rim Route (Orange Route) shuttle bus from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center. The shuttle runs every 15-30 minutes, depending on the time of day and season. Check the National Park Service website for the most up-to-date schedule. The ride is approximately 6 minutes. There is no parking available at the trailhead for private vehicles. Alternatively, during early morning hours, you can take the Hiker's Express Shuttle.

  • Walking

    If you are already at the South Rim, you can walk to the South Kaibab Trailhead via the Rim Trail. From the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, the walk is approximately 2.3 miles (3.7 km). Follow the paved path east along the rim. This is a relatively easy walk with scenic views.

  • Taxi

    If the shuttle buses are not running, taxi service is available from Xanterra Taxi Service. Call (928) 638-2631 for service. A taxi from Grand Canyon Village to the South Kaibab Trailhead will cost approximately $20-$30.

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Discover more about Cedar Ridge

Cedar Ridge is a prominent stop along the South Kaibab Trail, approximately 1.5 miles from the trailhead. The well-maintained path descends into the canyon, offering increasingly dramatic vistas. Cedar Ridge itself is a relatively flat, expansive area that provides 360-degree views, making it a worthwhile destination for hikers of varying abilities. The South Kaibab Trail, originally known as the Yaki Trail, was the first trail constructed by the Park Service to connect the rim to the Colorado River. Opened in 1925, the trail cost approximately $73,000 to build, which is equivalent to about $1 million today. The trail was later renamed after the nearby Kaibab National Forest. The word “Kaibab” in the Paiute language means “Mountain Lying Down,” which is their term for the Grand Canyon. As hikers descend toward Cedar Ridge, they're treated to views of distinct rock layers, including the Kaibab Limestone, Coconino Sandstone, and Hermit Shale. The trail winds around natural features, offering glimpses of O'Neill Butte in the distance. At Cedar Ridge, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built an exhibit in the 1930s to display fern fossils discovered during trail construction. While the exhibit is no longer there, the area still provides a unique perspective on the canyon's geological history. Cedar Ridge provides a rest area with pit toilets, though there is no water available. The exposed nature of the ridge means shade is limited, making early morning hikes advisable, especially during warmer months.

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