We are lucky as humans to be blessed with impressive natural wonders that our planet has to offer, and exploring the Grand Canyon on foot is an unforgettable memory. It is indeed memorable in one of the world’s natural wonders especially when you embark on this adventure with your close friends or family.
Epic hiking, spectacular views, majestic wildlife, and even a ghost story or two are part of the alluring hiking trips into the Grand Canyons, and you will be able to learn historical facts, enjoy whitewater rafting, or create a photography portfolio. Since the Grand Canyon is one of the best hiking destinations in the USA, here’s a list of the 12 best picks for you:
Grand Canyon Hiking Trails
1. Bright Angel Trail
One of the most popular and strenuous trails in the Grand Canyon, Bright Angel Trail combines thrill, views, and a lush oasis of cottonwoods, willows, and grasses along a perennial stream, which is a stark contrast to the grand towers of red desert rock on the way to the Colorado River. The shortest and easiest hike on this trail would be to a 1.5-mile resthouse if you are not feeling very adventurous.
Book Hotels Near Bright Angel Trail
2. South Kaibab Trail
If you want 360-degree panoramic views of the canyon, the North and South Rim, and the fastest way to the canyon interiors, you should check South Kaibab Trail. The trail turbocharges through Ooh Aah Point, Skeleton Point, and the Tip-Off. Even though it is shorter than Bright Angel, it is steeper and not as easily accessible as the Bright Angel Trail. You must carry your water because this trail has no water source.
3. Rim Trail
This easy and pet-friendly trail is a must-see for every visitor to the South Rim. It winds along the canyon’s edge and offers breathtaking vistas throughout the journey. It stretches from the Village area to Hermits Rest, so you can choose the distance you want. Still, if the distance seems a bit much, you can cut that hike short and use the shuttle to return. Some of the best stops on this trail are Mohave Point for great sunsets, Pima Point for the majestic view of the Colorado River, and Hopi Point as it extends further into the canyon.
4. Havasu Falls
Learn about the fascinating history of the Havasupai Indian Reservation and experience the extraordinary. This trail has been included in the list even though it is not technically within the Grand Canyon experience. Permits are required to visit this stunning place, but they are not easy to get, so plan accordingly. It is worth visiting the turquoise waters of Havasu Falls and the lush green oasis with a creek running through.
read also: Weekend Getaways in Arizona
5. Hermit Trail
Those who want a more rugged and adventurous experience will love Hermit Trail. Less maintained, secluded, and challenging, it is ideal for experienced hikers and is not recommended for beginners. An alternative to a rim-to-river hiking trail, it drops 2,000 feet within the first 2.5 miles making it a tough route going back up. Again, there is no potable water so you should carry your own or source and filter natural water from Santa Maria Springs or Dripping Springs. It starts from Hermit Rest and provides access to a few permitted campsites. Some stops recommended for day hikers are Waldron Basic and Breezy Point.
6. Cape Final Trail
Combine dappled forest canopy with gorgeous and expansive canyon vistas, you will find yourself at Cape Final Trail. One of the easiest trails, it is also a secluded and rustic experience you will look forward to as it takes you through a lush, shaded forest. As it is moderate in elevation, families will find it easy to hike on the North Rim. The trail navigates through the forest and beside the canyon’s edge leading to a beautiful view. Some of the prominent features include the Vishnu Temple.
7. Cliff Springs Trail
This is yet another easy 1-mile round trip trail. It is also among the most beautiful and best hikes in the Grand Canyon. If you want to walk through an unspoiled forest with a gorgeous natural spring at the end, Cliff Springs Trail should be your first choice. You might also get exposed to American history as you pass a native home built into the canyons (which you shouldn’t try to go inside).
Book Hotels Near Cliff Springs Trail in Grand Canyon
8. Grandview Trail
Initially used by copper miners and their mules in 1893, Grandview Trail today is a steep, equally secluded hiking trail. If you want to avoid the crowds of nearby Bright Angel and South Kaibab, choose Grandview Trail. Some of the popular camping spots are on top of Horseshoe Mesa where you will witness historical mining remnants. Don’t underestimate the hike and be well prepared as it is not an easy one. It is approximately 6-8 miles roundtrip with nearly 3,000 feet of elevation change and exponentially more dangerous than Bright Angel or the South Kaibab.
9. The Widforss Trail
What you will love about this wondrous hiking trail is not just the canyon views but the forested trail with dappled sunlight peeking through the heavy canopy. This scenic trail is named after Gunnar Widforss, an early 20th-century artist renowned for his watercolor paintings of the Grand Canyon. This trail is one of the best hikes in the Grand Canyon for forestry, wildlife, and stunning ponderosa pines with one of the world’s largest pines on this trail. You will also have great views of the Transept side canyon.
10. North Kaibab Trail
It is one of the greatest hiking trails, and it is also the best to go river-to-rim and rim-to-rim as long as you have planned properly and meticulously. There are several iterations you can do to make the trail shorter but if not, the trail can go on for multiple days with almost 6,00 feet of elevation change making it quite difficult. If you are a day hiker, you will be satisfied with a hike to Coconino Overlook, and those seeking thrilling adventure can try hiking to Roaring Springs.
11. Boucher Trail
Not for the faint of heart, this trail is extremely difficult and needs you to be an experienced hiker before embarking on this adventure. Named after the legendary Grand Canyon Hermit, Louis Boucher, it starts from Hermit Trailhead where you will traverse rugged terrain. While the rewards are epic, the difficulty is intense – it may be the most difficult trail on the South Rim. Some of the highlights include Yuma Point, Redwall, and Boucher Creek.
read also: Hiking Trails Asheville NC
12. Tanner Trail
This historic trail is just off Desert View Drive at Lipan Point and was first used by native people and then by miners. The Tanner Trail provides stunning views of the Escalante and Cardenas Buttes. Because of its difficulty and lack of water sources, this unmaintained hiking trail is recommended for experienced hikers only. You should be aware that this trail is quite narrow and often overgrown – speak with a ranger and check the NPS guide.
Wrapping Up
You can choose your own Grand Canyon adventure. From enjoying scenic views, hiking the challenging terrain, and observing the unique wildlife, there is much to do at this iconic century-old American landmark. You can choose from a short day hike to a multi-day backpacking trip and get the real scope of its size and beauty. Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to elevate your experience by hiking along the canyon rim and enjoying the strata of delicate hues as Californian condors circle. But don’t forget to bring sunscreen, be well prepared with plenty of water to hydrate yourself as the temperature varies, and wear appropriate clothing
