Skeleton Point: A Grand Canyon Day Hike
Hike the iconic South Kaibab Trail to Skeleton Point for unparalleled Grand Canyon views and a challenging day of exploration.
Skeleton Point, reached via the South Kaibab Trail, is a challenging but rewarding day hike in Grand Canyon National Park, offering stunning panoramic views and a glimpse of the Colorado River. The 6-mile round trip descends 2,000 feet, showcasing the canyon's vastness and geological wonders.
A brief summary to Skeleton Point
- Grand Canyon Village, Arizona, 86023, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Start your hike early to avoid the midday heat and ensure parking availability at the trailhead.
- Bring at least 3 liters of water per person, as there are no water sources along the South Kaibab Trail.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots for better grip on the sometimes slippery and uneven terrain.
- Check weather conditions and trail alerts before heading out, and be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion.
- Pace yourself on the ascent, taking frequent breaks to conserve energy and enjoy the views.
Getting There
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Shuttle
From Grand Canyon Village, take the free Hikers' Express Shuttle to the South Kaibab Trailhead. The shuttle departs from Bright Angel Lodge at 4:00 AM, 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM, stopping at the Backcountry Information Center and Visitor Center Shuttle Bus Terminal en route. No tickets are required. The shuttle is free and included with your park entrance fee.
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Parking
If driving, park at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center and use the free shuttle to reach the South Kaibab Trailhead. Parking at the Visitor Center is free with your park entrance fee. The park entrance fee is $35 per vehicle, valid for 7 days. Limited RV parking is available in Lot 1. Short-term and long-term parking are available at Grand Canyon National Park Airport. Short-term and long-term parking is $10 per day.
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
Your gateway to exploring the South Rim, providing access to stunning views, educational exhibits, and the Grand Canyon's free shuttle system.
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
Explore 4.56 billion years of geological history on this accessible trail with breathtaking Grand Canyon views.
Grand Canyon Pioneer Cemetery
4.3 km
Discover the stories of pioneers and visionaries at the Grand Canyon Pioneer Cemetery, a place of history and remembrance.
1.5 Mile Resthouse
5.0 km
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El Tovar Hotel
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Colter Hall
5.1 km
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Grand Canyon Museum Collection
5.2 km
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Maricopa Point
5.2 km
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Bright Angel Lodge
5.3 km
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Lookout Studio
5.3 km
Iconic Mary Colter-designed studio offering panoramic Grand Canyon views and unique souvenirs on the South Rim.
Grand Canyon National Park - Kolb Studio
5.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Tipoff
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Cedar Ridge
1.9 km
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S Kaibab Trail
2.2 km
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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
Experience the breathtaking views and rich geological history at Yavapai Point in Grand Canyon National Park, a must-see for every nature lover.
Yavapai Geology Museum
3.0 km
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8 S Entrance Rd
3.0 km
Your gateway to exploring the majestic Grand Canyon: information, planning, and breathtaking views await at the South Rim Visitor Center.
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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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
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Sultana Bar
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Glen Canyon
98.0 km
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