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Quick Overview
- Distance: 23.5 miles (South Kaibab to North Kaibab)
- Total Elevation Gain: ~6,000 ft descent, ~5,800 ft ascent
- Trailheads: South Kaibab Trailhead (South Rim) to North Kaibab Trailhead (North Rim)
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Best Season: Mid-May to mid-June, and mid-September to October (avoid summer heat and winter snow)
- Permit Required: Yes, for overnight camping at Phantom Ranch or Bright Angel Campground
Why Hike Rim to Rim?
This hike offers a complete Grand Canyon experience: descending through layers of geologic time, camping beside the Colorado River, and ascending through lush canyons and red rock amphitheaters. It’s more than just a hike — it’s a journey from one world to another and back again.
Route Summary
South Kaibab Trail (7.4 miles to Phantom Ranch)
- Start: South Kaibab Trailhead (7,260 ft)
- Highlights: Ooh Aah Point, Skeleton Point, The Tipoff
- Notes: No water, exposed, steep descent. Epic sunrise views.
Phantom Ranch & Bright Angel Campground
- Located along Bright Angel Creek near the Colorado River
- Water, toilets, ranger station, and campground (with permit)
- Phantom Ranch offers cabins, meals (reservations required), and lemonade refills
North Kaibab Trail (14 miles to North Rim)
- Highlights: Ribbon Falls, Cottonwood Campground, Roaring Springs, Supai Tunnel
- Finish: North Kaibab Trailhead (8,241 ft)
- Notes: Steady uphill climb with increasing shade and vegetation as you ascend
Itinerary Options
1-Day (Ultramarathon Style)
- Only for extremely fit hikers or runners
- Start pre-dawn, carry minimal gear, and plan for 10–14 hours of movement
- Water availability and heat are critical concerns
2-Day (Most Popular)
- Day 1: South Kaibab to Bright Angel Campground (camp overnight)
- Day 2: Bright Angel Campground to North Rim
3-Day (More Comfortable)
- Day 1: South Kaibab to Bright Angel Campground
- Day 2: Explore Phantom Ranch / Ribbon Falls, camp at Cottonwood
- Day 3: Hike out to the North Rim
Water & Resupply Points
- South Kaibab Trail: No water – start fully loaded
- Phantom Ranch/Bright Angel Campground: Year-round water
- Manzanita Rest Area: Seasonal water (check current water status)
- North Kaibab Trailhead: Seasonal water
Permit & Reservation Info
- Backcountry Permit: Required for overnight camping (Bright Angel or Cottonwood Campgrounds)
- Phantom Ranch: Lottery-based cabin reservations through Xanterra
- Apply 4 months in advance via Recreation.gov
What to Pack
Essentials
- At least 3–4 liters of water capacity
- Electrolytes & high-sodium snacks
- Sun hat, sunglasses, SPF
- Map or GPS app with offline data (AllTrails, Gaia)
- First aid kit and blister care
For Overnight
- Lightweight backpacking tent or bivy
- Sleeping pad and warm-weather bag (temps can vary drastically)
- Camp stove and meals (or meals at Phantom Ranch if booked)
Weather & Timing
- Summer: Avoid unless experienced. Temps at the bottom can exceed 110°F.
- Winter: Snow possible on the rims. Check trailhead access.
- Spring/Fall: Ideal windows — still hot in the canyon, but safer overall.
Logistics: Getting Back to Your Car
- Shuttle Service: Arrange in advance with Trans-Canyon Shuttle (runs May–October)
- Car Swap: Coordinate with another hiking party going the opposite direction
- Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim: Some hikers choose to return the same way over two days
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is Rim to Rim?
Very strenuous. This is a physically and mentally demanding trek due to elevation, heat, and distance. Don’t underestimate the canyon — hiking down is optional, hiking back up is not.
Is South Kaibab or Bright Angel better for descent?
South Kaibab is steeper and more scenic but has no water. Bright Angel has shade and water stops, making it better for ascents. South Kaibab is the classic route for starting Rim to Rim.
Can I do it in reverse (North to South)?
Yes, but keep in mind that the North Rim opens seasonally (mid-May to mid-October). South Rim is open year-round and has better amenities and lodging.
Are there mule trains on the trail?
Yes, particularly near Phantom Ranch. Step off the trail and follow ranger instructions when encountered.
The Rim to Rim Trail is the ultimate Grand Canyon adventure. From the first steps into the canyon at dawn to the triumphant climb out the other side, this journey offers unmatched beauty, solitude, and perspective. With proper planning, gear, and respect for the terrain, Rim to Rim can be the highlight of a lifetime of hiking experiences.
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Where to Stay
There are a variety of accommodation options available both inside and near Grand Canyon National Park to suit every type of traveler. For those looking to stay within the park, camping is available at the Mather Campground on the South Rim and the North Rim Campground, both of which can be booked through Recreation.gov.
For a more comfortable stay, park lodges such as Bright Angel Lodge, Phantom Ranch, and Grand Canyon Lodge offer a range of rooms and cabins. These accommodations can sell out months in advance, so early booking is advised.
Outside the park, nearby towns like Tusayan and Flagstaff offer a variety of lodging options including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. You can find a range of options on AirBNB and VRBO. For a unique camping experience, consider staying at a KOA Campground, which offer amenities like hot showers and Wi-Fi.
Dining Options
There are several dining options available within Grand Canyon National Park. El Tovar Dining Room and Bright Angel Restaurant offer full-service dining with stunning canyon views. For a more casual meal, try the Arizona Room or the Maswik Cafeteria.
Outside the park, Tusayan offers a range of restaurants and cafes. Try the local favorite, Big E Steakhouse and Saloon, for hearty meals and a cozy atmosphere. For quick bites and grocery needs, there’s a General Store in Grand Canyon Village.
Travel Tips & Safety
When planning your visit to Grand Canyon National Park, it’s essential to prepare for the unique challenges the park presents. The arid climate requires visitors to stay hydrated and protect themselves from the sun. Bring plenty of water, wear a hat, and use sunscreen.
The park is also at a high altitude, which can cause altitude sickness. Take time to acclimate and avoid strenuous activity on your first day.
If you’re hiking, know your limits and turn back if you’re feeling unwell. Flash floods can occur during monsoon season (July-September), so pay attention to weather reports.
Check the park’s pet policies if you’re planning to bring a furry friend. Pets are allowed on some trails and in some campgrounds, but restrictions apply.
Latest Park Alerts
Before your visit, be sure to check the latest park alerts on the official National Park Service website. This will provide you with the most up-to-date information on trail closures, weather conditions, and potential hazards. You can find this information here.
Get Involved
If you’re passionate about preserving the natural beauty of our national parks, consider volunteering. Grand Canyon National Park offers opportunities for trail work, visitor programs, and citizen science projects. Volunteering is a rewarding way to contribute to the park’s conservation efforts and gain a deeper connection to this incredible landscape. Find out more about volunteer opportunities here.
Remember, exploring the Grand Canyon is an unforgettable experience. With proper planning, you can enjoy all the wonders that this national treasure has to offer. Safe travels!