South Kaibab Trail day hike: Ridge-top views, small groups

The South Kaibab's ridge-top route gives you panoramic views on both sides at once, not just one wall of the canyon.

A guided day hike on the South Kaibab Trail in Grand Canyon National Park, starting at Yaki Point and descending a ridge to Ooh Aah Point and Cedar Ridge with a licensed guide, small group, snacks and lunch included. The ridge-top route offers 360-degree views unavailable on other trails. The hike takes six hours and is moderately strenuous. Your guide adjusts the pace to the group and carries trekking poles and a backpack for you.

The experience

The South Kaibab Trail starts at Yaki Point and follows a ridge that drops into the canyon with views on both sides: a setup that separates it from other Grand Canyon routes. Your licensed guide leads a small group down toward Ooh Aah Point and Cedar Ridge, sharing details about the geology and ecology as you go. The ridge itself is what makes the difference: you're not walking along a wall but along a spine, so the panoramas shift with every turn.

The hike runs six hours and is moderately strenuous, though your guide sets the pace to match the group. You'll have time to stop and photograph, rest in the shade, and take in the scale of the place without rushing. Snacks and lunch are included. Bring water from the rim or purchase it there. The guide carries a backpack and provides trekking poles, which matter on the descent. Yaki Point has parking and is accessible by shuttle from the South Rim visitor area.

This is not a walk-and-talk tour where you tag along passively. You're hiking into the canyon on a real trail with real elevation change, and the guide's role is to keep you safe, hydrated and interested in what you're standing in front of. First-time hikers can do this if they have moderate fitness. Seasoned hikers will find the ridge views worth the effort.

What’s included

• Licensed and certified guide leading a small group.
• snacks and lunch throughout the day.
• backpack and trekking poles provided by the guide.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

AgesAdult (11 to 90 years) · Child (under 11)

GroupUp to 7

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 9 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPublic transport nearby

Operated by The Desert Hiking Company

Is this one for you?The guide speaks English and leads the commentary in a way that works for hikers of moderate fitness. If you're comfortable with six hours of steady descent and ascent on a real trail, this ridge-top route gives you views other Grand Canyon hikes don't reach.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (under 11).

What is Ooh Aah Point and how far down the trail is it?

Ooh Aah Point is an early landmark on the South Kaibab Trail where the views open up dramatically. It's one of the first major stops your guide will take you to on the descent from Yaki Point, typically reached in the first couple of hours of the hike.

Do I need to bring my own water and snacks?

Snacks and lunch are included in the hike. Water is not included. You can bring your own or purchase bottled water at Yaki Point before you start, since there are no water sources on the trail itself.

How steep is the South Kaibab Trail compared to other Grand Canyon hikes?

The South Kaibab is moderately strenuous with real elevation loss, and it's steeper and more exposed than some other canyon trails. Your guide will adjust the pace to the group's fitness level, and trekking poles are provided to help with the descent.

What happens if someone in the group is moving slower than others?

The guide sets the pace to match the group's speed and fitness level, so the hike stays together. The route can reach Ooh Aah Point, Cedar Ridge, or possibly Skeleton Point depending on how the group is moving and what feels right for the day.

Is the Grand Canyon entrance fee included?

The entrance fee to Grand Canyon National Park is not included in this hike. You'll need to pay it separately when you enter the park, or bring an America the Beautiful pass if you have one.