Skeleton Point, Grand Canyon Travel Guide

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Hike the South Kaibab Trail to Skeleton Point for breathtaking Grand Canyon views and a rewarding day of exploration.

Skeleton Point, a 6-mile roundtrip hike on the South Kaibab Trail, offers iconic Grand Canyon views and a challenging experience. It's a popular day hike recommended by the Park Service, providing a glimpse of the Colorado River and the canyon's vast geological history.

A brief summary to Skeleton Point

Grand Canyon Village, Arizona, 86023, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Skeleton Point.

Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Bring plenty of water (at least 3 liters) as there are no water sources along the trail.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and apply sunscreen regularly, as much of the trail is exposed.
Check with park rangers for safety alerts and weather conditions before heading out.

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Explore Skeleton Point on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Skeleton Point, mapped for you.

Getting There

Shuttle Bus

From Grand Canyon Village, take the free Kaibab Rim (Orange) Route shuttle to the South Kaibab Trailhead. Shuttles run every 15-30 minutes. No tickets are required. This is the only way to access the trailhead, as private vehicles are not allowed.
Walking

Once you arrive at the South Kaibab Trailhead via the shuttle, the trail begins along a paved path. Follow the signs for the South Kaibab Trail. The initial descent involves a series of switchbacks. The hike to Skeleton Point is 3 miles downhill, with a challenging 3-mile uphill return.
Parking

If arriving by personal vehicle, park at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center or in designated lots within Grand Canyon Village. Parking is free, but can be limited, especially during peak season. From the Visitor Center, take the free Kaibab Rim (Orange) Route shuttle to the South Kaibab Trailhead. A park entrance fee of $35 per vehicle is required.

Discover more about Skeleton Point

Skeleton Point, accessible via the South Kaibab Trail, is a popular destination for a day hike within the Grand Canyon. This 6-mile round trip offers hikers stunning panoramic views and a moderately challenging experience. The trail descends into the canyon, providing an immersive experience of the Grand Canyon's vastness and geological history.The South Kaibab Trail itself was constructed in 1924-25 by the National Park Service with the goal of maximizing scenic vistas. The trail winds around natural features, offering ever-changing perspectives of the canyon's colorful rock layers. Along the way, hikers pass Ooh Aah Point, a popular turnaround spot for a shorter hike, and Cedar Ridge, which has toilet facilities. Skeleton Point provides the first views of the Colorado River from the trail. The Redwall Limestone, approximately 335 million years old, is visible from Skeleton Point.Hiking to Skeleton Point requires preparation. There are no water sources along the trail, so carrying at least 3 liters of water is recommended. The weather in the Grand Canyon can be extreme, with bitter cold, ice, and snow in the winter and intense heat in the summer.