If you are a travel enthusiast and a hiking junkie, the Grand Canyon is somewhere in your travel plans. Known for its mesmerizing views and rich history, millions of people visit the Grand Canyon every year.
The Grand Canyon covers a large area. This means there are plenty of trails to hike on. So many options might leave you confused about where to go. This is why we shortlisted breathtaking tracks for Grand Canyon hikes that leave you hypnotized, enthralled, and craving more.
- South Rim Trail
The South Rim Trail is quite famous among Grand Canyon visitors because this is where your trip starts. It features several eye-captivating views that are not easy to forget. South Rim Trail is 13 miles long, with the route paved properly to help hikers pass through. There is a slight change in the elevation, which makes this track suitable for both beginner and advanced hikers.
Good news for Instagrammers. Go to the Yavapai, Mather, and Powell points to watch the sunset. These places can be crowded, so you must take high-quality gear to capture the best sunset or sunrise photo.
There are different facilities like a market and campgrounds, meaning that you will find people there at all times. Certain cliffs can be steep, so wear appropriate hiking sneakers (Usman, please link the hiking sneaker article here). If you are looking for a way to make your loved one happy, plan a date night at the South Rim for lots of romance and a better bond with your spouse.
- South Kaibab Trail
The South Kaibab Trail is a 7-mile track with 5000 feet of elevation. It is incredibly challenging and unsuitable for beginners and people with health conditions. Despite its popularity, you cannot take a personal vehicle on the South Kaibab Trail. A convenient shuttle system carries hikers from one point to the other.
Start early if you want to make the most out of your hike at South Kaibab. Don’t forget to pack your hiking essentials for a comfortable and convenient trip. Unlike South Rim, South Kaibab has no facilities — you won’t even find a water supply here.
Since people who have experience hiking or trekking go here, we recommend that you opt for professional hiking clothes. Always purchase professional hiking apparel from reputed brands so that it lasts longer and doesn’t make you uncomfortable on complicated tracks like South Kaibab.
You will find stunning displays and gorgeous photography points throughout your journey. From Ooh-Aah-Point to Cedar and Skeleton Points, there are plenty of spots to see as you approach the Colorado River. The journey downhill is much faster and effortless. Also, the shuttles come in at different times, so you can quit and return.
- Havasu Falls
Without any arguments, Havasu Falls are one of the most high-profile and picturesque Grand Canyon hikes. This is the spot for you if you have a hankering for baby blue water and colorful flowers. Unfortunately, it is not open for day hikers who plan to go home after completion. Hikers need a three-day permit to go there. You can plan and book a Havasu Falls hike from their reservation website.
It is a 10-mile and moderately challenging hike to get your heart rate up. You can also ride a mule to see the most beautiful spots at Havasu. Pack reusable camping gear to stay the night, and don’t pollute your surroundings.
- Horseshoe Bend
This trail is called that because it literally resembles a horseshoe. It is located in the Navajo Nation in Page. The course has a round trip walk for one mile, and you also get to spend time in the Secret Canyon, which is not much crowded compared to other parts of the Grand Canyon hikes. The best time to hike here is spring, when the sky is clear, and you can witness the gorgeous sunset.
It is a relatively easy passage, suitable for beginners, plus-size people, or those with conditions such as arthritis. The trail has minimal elevation; you can even power your way from the starting point to the finish. If you like capturing memories, some excellent spots scream ‘capture me!’.
- Cape Royal
Cape Royal is a popular choice if you are visiting the Grand Canyon with your family. It is a flat track with little elevation, so you can walk around and enjoy it with your kids. The trail isn’t overly populated like others, so you can capture and watch different views without waiting for a chance. The passage is paved and smooth, allowing people with disabilities to come and enjoy their time. Unfortunately, you cannot bring your dogs here.
The trail is concise, covering a distance of 0.8 miles. Despite its convenience and accessibility, many people do not access this one because of the longer driving time. Because of its small crowds but gorgeous beauty, many people even get married at the Cape Royal. It is open to the public throughout the year without needing a permit. However, experts recommend the best time for visiting to be fall.
- Widforss Trail
Widforss is a beginner-friendly trail with a distance of 4.2 miles that takes at least three to four hours to complete. It has a slight elevation, so you can power through and cover more distance in less time. The route is primarily shaded, allowing the hikers to spend quality time without feeling drained or exhausted. You can visit it throughout the year and have a fantastic experience.
Widforss has a beginner-friendly passage which many hikers might not find that challenging. In fact, pregnant women in proper hiking attire can come here to pull in a practical walk. There is a gorgeous forest on the trail to rest, hydrate yourself and grab a bite. During the days with no wind, the track is calm and tranquil — probably the best spot to plan a date. Also, you get to see different types of birds within the luscious greenery. People with a knack for solitude can come here to soothe the senses.
- Toroweap Overlook
Toroweap Overlook is an entire trail that opens only between May 15 till October 15. It has a rough and rocky track that can challenge some people more than others. This trail is incredibly long, over 600 km. You can drive your way from one point to the other for convenience. The best time to go there is in the summer to avoid monsoon rains and their muddy aftereffects.
Don’t forget to wear appropriate summer hiking clothes for comfort and convenience.
Despite the rough and rocky journey, Toroweap Outlook boasts the most spectacular and gorgeous views of the Grand Canyon. You can easily witness the Canyon along with the remains of the volcanic eruption that happened here years ago.
- Grand View Trail
Despite boasting a spectacular view, the Grand View Trail is not the easiest to conquer. It is a steep track with 12.5 miles of looped track that takes you at least eight to ten hours to complete. The 3000-foot elevation makes it quite challenging. So, if you are a professional and up for it, pack your hiking gear and head out for the Grand View Trail.
Here is a professional guide to choosing the right clothes.
If you are looking for a backpacking route, grab a permit and spend some time in the outstanding wilderness. You can park your vehicle at the trailhead and witness the gorgeous views. There are fewer people here; hence you can experience the best of the Grand Canyon without any distractions. Keep a hiking compass to stay on track.
- Hermit Trail
Hermit Trail is located on the park’s Western Edge, providing a more independent and solitary experience. This trail has varying elevations. It drops to 2000 feet in the first 2 miles and then gets challenging for the hikers as they climb up. It is one of the earliest trails, but most hikers are for day expeditions.
Hermit Trails feature Santa Maria Springs with access to an abundant water supply. The water must be treated before consumption because of exposure to debris. The result is stunning, but a lot of effort goes into completing the Hermit hiking trail. It is unsuitable for beginners and obese people. Only the fittest should set out for the Hermit Trails.
Witness Grand Views At the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is famous because of its stunning and picturesque views. It is among the world’s greatest natural wonders that attract millions worldwide. Whether you live in Arizona or not, there are plenty of hiking tracks to pull in a workout and explore the Grand Canyon.
We discussed the most popular hiking trails at the Grand Canyon of different difficulty levels and lengths. You can pick one that matches your fitness level. Remember to pack appropriate hiking gear for the trip so you are safe and ready to counter any inconvenience.
When going on trips like this, always wear appropriate hiking apparel to keep you comfortable and ensure ease of movement. We hope this article helps you plan the most enjoyable Grand Canyon hikes.