|
| | | |
| |
|
| Hiking | |
4,595 AEG |
| | Hiking | | | | |
| 4,595 ft AEG | | | | |
|
|
| |
| Linked |
|
none
[ show ]
| no linked trail guides |
| Partners |
|
none
[ show ]
| no partners | | Speaking as someone who has hiked many of the maintained and un-maintained trails in the Grand Canyon, I can unequivocally recommend the South Kaibab Trail as the most scenic in the canyon. The main reason for this is that it is the only trail in the canyon that follows a peninsula that juts out into the canyon, providing sweeping views both up and down the canyon in addition to across the canyon. None of the other trails do this.
The temperature on the rim of Grand Canyon is approximately the same as Flagstaff, while the temperature at the bottom of Grand Canyon is approximately the same as Phoenix. You can enjoy the upper part even in summer, but don't go to the bottom in the summer. Even if you are in good enough shape to do such a hike in 100 degree weather, that is not my idea of a good time.
There are two ways I would particularly recommend doing this trail:
(1.) For novice hikers or those out of shape, you can still get a fantastic Canyon experience by hiking down the South Kaibab trail for 1.5 miles to Cedar Ridge. The spot can be recognized by a hitching rail, pit toilet, and small fossil exhibit - don't go any further. If you can do only one thing at Grand Canyon, this is the very best thing you can do. The views are stupendous, and you get a great experience of being down in the Canyon
rather than just looking at it. Bring plenty of water and remember that going down is easy but the trudge back up takes twice as long. But this is short enough that even if you are totally out of shape you can still do it - just take your time. This can even be done in the summer because you are not going down that far, but I would still recommend an early start.
(2.) For those in good enough shape, going down the Kaibab to the river and then up the Bridge Angel is a great way to do it. The Bright Angel is
longer but more gradual for the ascent, and has water available at Indian Gardens. Plus by doing a loop you get to experience both trails, which is always an advantage when you have the opportunity. This can be done as a long day hike (16 miles with 4500 feet of elevation gain) or a backpack. I prefer it in one day without having to carry a pack, and have done it twice this way. I figure any place you can backpack in two days, you can hike without a pack in one. But don't try it unless you know your capability. |
| _____________________
| | |
|
|
|
Route Editor
Route Scout
