Explore the Canyon
Marvel at magnificent vistas from the Grand Canyon’s rim, or descend within by foot or hoof. To enter the canyon is to step back in time, as younger limestone layers at the rim give way to more ancient strata, eventually reaching Vishnu Schist that dates back nearly two billion years — some of the oldest exposed rock on the planet.
Trails & Hikes
Rim Trail
This mostly-paved trail treats visitors to an unending series of jaw-dropping views. Park shuttles run along this route, allowing you to walk a segment and then get a ride back to your starting-point. Crowds near the Grand Canyon Visitor Center swiftly dwindle as you move east or west.
South Kaibab Trail
This trail descends along a ridgeline, offering unparalleled views but affording little shelter from the elements. There are no water sources along the way, either, so the park service discourages visitors from using this trail during the summer unless they depart very early in the morning and are appropriately equipped.
Bright Angel Trail
This is the most popular trail into the canyon and with good reason: the trailhead is conveniently located, and it has regular rest-houses and water-sources. Roughly following a route used by Native peoples for millennia, it descends in a break in the cliffs via a series of narrow switchbacks, then flattens out and follows a creek.
Hermit Trail
This trail is less trafficked and considered rougher and more strenuous. It’s a good place for adventurous hikers to escape the crowds, but talk to a ranger before embarking.
Other Ways to Explore
Desert View Drive
Also known as Arizona State Route 64, Desert View Drive extends east from the park for 23 miles and allows motorists to see a larger sweep of the canyon than they can on foot. Lipan Point affords perhaps the most astonishing views, and the Desert View Watchtower, constructed in 1932 from a design by Mary Colter, is also worth a visit.
Bicycle the Hermit Road
Bicycling is a great way to explore the rim of the canyon. There are paved greenways separated from car-traffic, and for much of the year, the Hermit Road is closed to all motorized vehicles save shuttle buses. Bright Angel Bicycle Rental and Café can outfit you with bicycles and e-bikes as hourly or daily rentals. Just be mindful of signs and stay off of paths that are exclusively for pedestrians.
Saddle up
Mules have been carrying tourists and supplies to and from the canyon floor for nearly 140 years. The offspring of a male donkey and female horse, they are steadier and more sure-footed than other equines. Day-trippers can take a two-hour, four-mile ride along the canyon rim. Riders must be at least nine years old and 4’9”, and weigh less than 225 pounds.
