The South Rim Trail follows the canyon edge at Grand Canyon National Park, linking viewpoints between the South Kaibab Trailhead and Hermits Rest. Its mostly level route is paved in many sections, so you can choose a short walk or use shuttle stops to cover more ground without walking the full distance. Stop at overlooks for views into the canyon and toward the Colorado River, or follow the Trail of Time, where rock samples and markers explain the canyon’s geological history. Dogs are allowed on the trail; bring water and protect their paws from hot pavement.
A route along the canyon edge
The South Rim Trail runs between the South Kaibab Trailhead and Hermits Rest, passing Grand Canyon Village and a series of overlooks. The full route is about 13 miles, but you do not need to walk it all. Choose a short out-and-back stroll, or use shuttle stops along the route to link selected sections. The trail connects with other paths and viewpoints, so it can also fit around stops elsewhere on the South Rim.
Much of the route is paved and level, with relatively little change in elevation. The surface is not paved throughout, and wheelchair accessibility applies to a section between Lookout Studio and the South Kaibab Trailhead. Check the route and access details for the section you plan to walk before setting out.
Viewpoints and geological markers
The trail gives you repeated views across the Grand Canyon and toward the Colorado River. Mather Point is a common starting point near the visitor center, but it can be busy. Walking farther along the rim lets you choose among other overlooks, including Yavapai, Hopi, Mohave and Powell points.
The Trail of Time adds an interpretive walk focused on the canyon’s formation. It runs for just over a mile between Verkamp’s and the Yavapai Geology Museum. Rock samples from inside the canyon line the route, and metal viewing tubes point toward matching rock layers on the opposite wall. Each meter represents one million years of geological history, covering about 2.1 billion years from one end to the other. You can walk from the oldest rocks toward the younger layers, or go in reverse.
Walking with a dog or family
Dogs are permitted on the South Rim Trail, which stays above the canyon rim. Carry water for both of you and take care with hot pavement; booties or paw wax can help protect a dog’s paws. The trail has benches, though there are no trash cans along some sections, so plan to carry waste with you.
The level path and the option to walk a short stretch make the route manageable for a range of walking abilities and for families using strollers. Keep children close to the rim, since some stretches have few safety rails. For a longer outing, combine walking with the shuttle rather than committing to the full one-way distance on foot.
FAQ
How long is the South Rim Trail?
The route is about 13 miles between the South Kaibab Trailhead and Hermits Rest. Walking the full route takes about 5 to 6 hours; shuttle stops let you cover a shorter section.
Is the South Rim Trail paved?
Much of the route is paved, and the trail is mostly level. Some sections are not paved.
Can you take a dog on the South Rim Trail?
Yes. Bring water and protect your dog’s paws from hot pavement.
What is the Trail of Time?
It is an interpretive walk of just over a mile between Verkamp’s and the Yavapai Geology Museum, with rock samples and markers about the canyon’s geological history.
