One of The Grand Canyon’s Best Hikes

Each year, millions of people descend upon The Grand Canyon to witness one of the 7 Wonders of the World.   Some hit the overlooks to snap pictures.  Others raft down the mighty Colorado River.  A few brave souls will hike or ride a burro to the bottom.

To be honest, hiking and rafting are the best ways to see this amazing geologic wonder.  Why?  Crowds can be quite thick at the most popular overlooks, potentially spoiling that peaceful moment you were hoping to snag with Mother Nature.   But the good news is that you don’t have to hike thousands of feet to the bottom of the canyon to enjoy one of The Grand Canyon’s Best Hikes!

The Grand Canyon Village is where the action’s at on the South Rim.  Iconic lodges, views, and the ever-popular Indian show are here.  It also the place where you hop onboard the shuttle bus (no personal cars allowed) to see prime views of the Canyon.   But, there is an alternative to the bus.   Take the Rim Trail.

The Rim Trail is just that – it follows the rim of the Grand Canyon from the Village all the way to Hermit’s Rest.  And it’s absolutely spectacular.    Most people bypass the trail and opt for the bus, making it one of the few trails in the park where it’s just you and the Grand Canyon.   The scenery is breathtaking.  It’s so peaceful that deer often come out to munch on the grass.  You can hear the wind rustle and echo through the canyon walls.  Birds soar above as if putting on an aerial demonstration just for you.  

Trailhead elevation is 6,820 feet with an elevation increase of about 200 feet, making it one of the easiest hikes in the park.  Most of the trail is paved – some parts are accessible by wheelchair and bicycles.  Leased pets are even allowed to take in the scenery with their owners.  Catch the trailhead in the Village and take it approximately 7 miles (one way) to the end.  If you get tired, just catch the shuttle bus back.

Word of Caution:  Make sure to bring plenty of water.  There are no water stations until Hermit’s Rest.  If you are scared of heights or prone to vertigo, bypass this hike.  Parts of the trail hug the rim and there are no railings.  It’s just you and the canyon straight down!

For more information about day hikes in the Grand Canyon, visit www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/day-hiking.htm

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