About
Length (round trip)6 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyStrenuous
Elevation gain2,040 ft up
Typical time4 hr
TrailheadSouth Kaibab Trailhead, Yaki Point (shuttle only)
SurfaceDirt ridge with log steps
Best seasonSouth Rim year round; March to May and September to November are best. The North Rim opens mid-May to mid-October.
DogsNot allowed
What you'll see 🌄 Big views🌊 River or creek🎒 Backpacking

Unlike Bright Angel, which follows a side canyon, South Kaibab runs straight down an open ridge, so the views are continuous. There is no water anywhere on it and almost no shade. Common turnarounds: Ooh Aah Point (1.8 miles round trip, 600 feet), Cedar Ridge (3 miles, 1,120 feet) and Skeleton Point (6 miles, 2,040 feet).

Tips
There is no public parking at the trailhead - park at the visitor centre and take the Kaibab/Rim (Orange) shuttle, a nine-minute ride. Carry all your water. Most people go down South Kaibab and come back up Bright Angel, which is far easier.
Location

South Kaibab Trailhead, Yaki Point (shuttle only)

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
Your Hikes

🔒 Login or create an account to record the trails you've done, rate them, and tie them to a trip.