Even for experienced hikers, Grand Canyon hikes can be difficult. The large elevation changes and different climate and vegetation zones encountered between the rims and the canyon floor present unique challenges not found on other hiking trails, but many people believe the spectacular views are worth the effort. Hiking trails in the Grand Canyon range from multi-day expeditions into and out of the canyon to short, scenic day hikes along the rims. Hikers of all skill levels can find a suitable trail in the Grand Canyon, which ranges from well-maintained and staffed trails to remote wilderness paths.
The most popular routes from the rim to the Colorado River, which flows through the canyon’s bottom, are the Corridor Trails, which are made up of three trails. Two of these trails begin on the canyon’s South Rim, while the third begins on the North Rim. Hikers can choose to hike one trail into the canyon and one trail out, or one trail in and one trail out. A hike to the canyon’s bottom and back is an overnight backpacking trip in either case. Even the most seasoned hikers should not attempt this hike in a single day.
The South Rim is the starting point for the South Kaibab and Bright Angel trails. The National Park Service recommends that the 6.3 mile (10.1 km) South Kaibab trail be used only for hiking into the canyon because it has little shade and no sources of potable water. The Bright Angel trail is 7.8 miles (12.6 kilometers) long, but it has more shade, three water stations, and a lower elevation change. Hikers who want to take advantage of the South Kaibab trail’s views often opt to hike in on this trail and out on the Bright Angel path.
The North Kaibab trail is the longest of the major trails descending into the canyon, measuring 14.2 miles (22.9 kilometers). Because it begins on the north side of the canyon, it, like the rest of the North Rim, is closed due to heavy snowfall from the first major snowfall of the year until about mid-May. This trail has a campground about halfway along it, and the three Corridor Trails share a campground at the canyon’s bottom.
There are numerous unmaintained trails leading into the canyon, in addition to the three main trails maintained by the National Park Service. Only experienced Grand Canyon hikers should use these. The National Park Service requires all overnight hikers to obtain a backcountry permit, whether they are on maintained or unmaintained trails. Grand Canyon hikes must be planned well in advance because 13,000 permits are issued each year and often over twice as many are requested.
There are many shorter hikes available on both rims of the Grand Canyon for day hikers. These range in length from short scenic routes of less than a mile (1.6 km) to strenuous 10 mile (16 km) hikes that descend partway into the canyon. Some day hiking trails offer guided hikes, and park rangers can provide detailed information on other Grand Canyon hikes.