Walking the Edge: Grand Canyon South Rim Trail Hikes

We're on the final stretch of road in this Arizona road trip and have saved the best for last.  It's the granddaddy of them all when it comes to America's scenic byways, the Grand Canyon South Rim.

From San Francisco peaks, follow Route 180 west to 64.  This Grand Canyon road trip will take you directly to the South Rim, known as Desert View.  When driving in, your first stop is Mather Point, and it's going to be the busiest place from which to take in the view.  Overlooking Pipe Creek Canyon and the Inner Gorge of the Colorado River, this is a great spot to take your road trip onto two feet.  The South Rim Trail starts here, and you've got some choices in the way of day hikes:

(links open to pdf files containing maps)

Rim Trail, from the Village to Hermit's Rest

Bright Angel Trail - Hikes range in distance up to 12 miles

South Kaibab Trail - Hikes up to 6 miles round trip

Hermit Trail - Tougher conditions than Bright Angel or South Kaibab, but offers springs.  Steep

Grandview Trail - Very steep trail requiring caution.


There's an important point to remember when you turn your Grand Canyon road trip into one in a pair of boots, and it's this:  Over 250 people are rescued from the canyon each year.  Being prepared for the conditions is paramount, and if you haven't done too much hiking, you may be surprised at how easy it is to go a lot farther along a trail than you'd intended.  Especially without water or proper footwear.  So while this post is meant to direct you to the amazing experience that is a trip to the Canyon, it's by no means a complete guide.  Please check out the resources below so that you can best prepare for one of the best vacations you can enjoy.

We want to see you back at Cibola Vista!

Photo Credit:  MatthiasDO on DeviantArt

Resources:
Day Hiking in the Canyon from the National Park Service
The Canyon.com
Grand Canyon National Park Hiking Guide
Tools, Tips, and Resources for Grand Canyon Hikers

Read more...