Skeleton Point: A Grand Canyon Day Hike
Hike the iconic South Kaibab Trail to Skeleton Point for breathtaking Grand Canyon views and a challenging day trip!
Skeleton Point, accessible via the South Kaibab Trail, offers a quintessential Grand Canyon day hike with stunning views and a challenging workout. This 6-mile round trip descends into the canyon, rewarding hikers with their first glimpse of the Colorado River.
A brief summary to Skeleton Point
- Grand Canyon Village, Arizona, 86023, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Start your hike as early as possible to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
- Bring at least 3 liters of water per person, as there are no water sources along the trail.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots for the uneven and sometimes slippery terrain.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, and be prepared for extreme temperature changes.
- Use the free shuttle bus to access the South Kaibab Trailhead, as parking is not permitted there.
Getting There
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Shuttle Bus
To reach the South Kaibab Trailhead, take the free Orange Route shuttle bus from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center. The shuttle runs frequently throughout the day. Check the National Park Service website or visitor center for the current schedule. The shuttle is free, as it's included with your park entrance fee. Park entrance fees are $35 per vehicle, $30 per motorcycle, or $20 per person entering by foot, bicycle, or shuttle bus.
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Walking
From the South Kaibab Trailhead shuttle stop, follow the paved path a short distance to the trailhead. There are restrooms and a water filling station available at the trailhead. Be sure to fill your water bottles before starting your hike, as there are no water sources along the trail.
Discover more about Skeleton Point
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Garden Creek Waterfall
2.4 km
Escape to the tranquil beauty of Garden Creek Waterfall in the Grand Canyon, a serene oasis offering picturesque views and soothing sounds.
Grand Canyon Visitor Center Westbound - Kaibab Rim (Orange Route)
3.1 km
Discover the Grand Canyon Visitor Center at Kaibab Rim, your gateway to breathtaking views and enriching experiences in one of nature's most iconic landscapes.
South Kaibab Trailhead
3.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Grand Canyon at the South Kaibab Trailhead, a premier hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Havasupai Garden Visitor Information Station
3.5 km
Discover the Grand Canyon's hidden gems at the Havasupai Garden Visitor Information Station, your gateway to adventure and natural beauty.
Havasupai Garden Ranger Station
3.6 km
A vital stop along the Bright Angel Trail, offering information, respite, and a glimpse into the Grand Canyon's history and natural beauty.
Trail Of Time: Headquarters Portal Parking Lot A
4.2 km
Discover the geological wonders of the Grand Canyon at the Trail of Time, where history and nature intertwine in breathtaking landscapes.
Grand Canyon Pioneer Cemetery
4.3 km
Explore the Grand Canyon Pioneer Cemetery, a serene tribute to early settlers amidst breathtaking canyon views and rich historical significance.
1.5 Mile Resthouse
5.0 km
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El Tovar Hotel
5.0 km
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Colter Hall
5.1 km
Experience the Grand Canyon from Colter Hall, a budget-friendly student dormitory perfect for adventurers seeking both comfort and community.
Grand Canyon Museum Collection
5.2 km
Explore the Grand Canyon's past through a vast collection of artifacts and research materials, preserving the legacy of this natural wonder.
Maricopa Point
5.2 km
Experience panoramic Grand Canyon views and discover the area's mining history at this easily accessible South Rim viewpoint.
Bright Angel Lodge
5.3 km
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Lookout Studio
5.3 km
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Grand Canyon National Park - Kolb Studio
5.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Tipoff
1.0 km
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Cedar Ridge
1.9 km
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S Kaibab Trail
2.2 km
Experience the breathtaking views and stunning landscapes of the S Kaibab Trail at Grand Canyon Village, a must-visit for every nature lover.
Black Bridge
2.2 km
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Ooh Aah Point
2.2 km
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Yaki Point
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Plateau Point
2.7 km
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Mather Point
2.7 km
Experience the breathtaking views at Mather Point, the iconic vista point in the Grand Canyon, perfect for photography and exploration.
Mather Point Ampitheater
2.8 km
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Grand Canyon South
2.8 km
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Tribes of the Canyon Memorial
2.8 km
Experience the rich cultural heritage of Native American tribes at the Tribes of the Canyon Memorial, a breathtaking tribute in the heart of the Grand Canyon.
Yavapai Point
3.0 km
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Yavapai Geology Museum
3.0 km
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8 S Entrance Rd
3.0 km
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GRAND CANYON
3.0 km
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Essential places to dine
Yavapai Tavern
4.0 km
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Yavapai Lodge Dining Hall
4.0 km
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Yavapai Lodge
4.0 km
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El Tovar cocktail lounge
5.0 km
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Grand Canyon Beer Garden
5.0 km
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El Tovar Dining Room
5.0 km
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Arizona Steakhouse
5.3 km
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Harvey House Cafe
5.3 km
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Fred Harvey Tavern
5.3 km
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Maswik Lodge
5.8 km
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Maswik Food Court
5.8 km
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We Cook Pizza and Pasta
12.1 km
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Yippee-Ei-O! Steakhouse
12.2 km
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R&J's Mexican Food Truck
12.3 km
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Explorers Cafe & Pizza Hut Express
12.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
GCC Park Store at Grand Canyon Visitor Center
3.1 km
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Bright Angel Bikes & Café at Grand Canyon Visitor Center
3.1 km
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Yavapai Café
4.0 km
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Market Plaza Parking - Lot B
4.1 km
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General Store
4.2 km
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Grand Canyon Village Market & Deli
4.2 km
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Grand Canyon Outfitters
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Mather Campground Camp Store
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Camper Services And Camp Store
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Xanterra Garage
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Canyon Closet - Grand Canyon School PTA
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North Country HealthCare - Grand Canyon
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Grand Canyon Conservancy
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Bright Angel Gift Shop
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The Fountain
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Roughrider Saloon
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Kaibab Lodge
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Kaibab Plateau
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Kaibab Camper Village
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Jacob Lake Inn
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Indian Fry Bread
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Chevron
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The Long Horn Saloon
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dj's Wild West Junction
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Spenser's Pub
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Williams
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Canyon Club
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Grand Canyon Brewing + Distillery
92.8 km
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Sultana Bar
92.9 km
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Glen Canyon
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