The South Kaibab Trail is the second of two South Rim hiking trails into the Grand Canyon, the other being the Bright Angel Trail. South Kaibab is considered to be much more strenuous than Bright Angel because it's extremely steep, offering no water points and very little shade, however it's also said to be the more scenic of the two.
The trail is just over 6 miles long and starts near Yaki Point on Yaki Point Road. At one time it was possible to park at the trailhead, however today parking is no longer allowed in an attempt to prevent overcrowding. Instead, hikers can get to the start of the trail by using the free shuttle bus that goes from the side road, or they can park slightly further away and walk to the overlook or the trailhead.
The trail offers spectacular views with most of it following the top of the ridge. However, during the steep 4,820 ft descent there is little or no shade and the only water available is at the trailhead or at the river, so visitors should bring plenty of water and should be experienced desert hikers if they wish to travel the whole distance.
There are, however, restrooms after 1.5 miles (and a descent of 940 ft) which offer the perfect stopping point for a half-day hike, which many people choose to do. The trail continues with a number of steep descents with restrooms and emergency phones further towards the end, and then at the edge of the Colorado River is the Phantom Ranch, offering a campsite and lodge facilities. However, visitors should be aware that these can get booked up a long time in advance, so those not wishing to hike back up the same day (nearly a 13 mile round trip taking approximately 7 hours) should be sure to make reservations.
Hikers should always take precautions, particularly during the summer months when it can get incredibly hot. The National Parks Service even recommends that the full round-trip should never be attempted in one day, however many a seasoned hiker argues that it's perfectly possible to do so as long as one is fit, has plenty of water and knows what they're doing.
The trail offers some of the most spectacular views of any in the canyon, and being so strenuous it's possible to avoid the crowds and enjoy it at your leisure. The trail itself doesn't require a fee, however entry to the Grand Canyon National Park does. Fees are $25 per private vehicle or $12 per person if on foot or by bike, and includes entrance to the North Rim as well as the South and all their trails for 7 days.
With many visitors rating the South Kaibab Trail above all others, it's definitely a must-do for any trip to the Grand Canyon. Although it's particularly strenuous it can be enjoyed by less experienced hikers just as much as seasoned ones, and is well worth a visit no matter how far you go.
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