Cross one of the largest chasms in the world. From high up on the Grand Canyon’s rim, descend a full mile deep to the Colorado River, then climb back out. Are you ready for the challenge?
Mileage | 22–24 miles |
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Duration | 2–4 days |
Best time | late May, September to November |
Reservations | Required, competitive |
From | To nearest trailhead |
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Williams | 1 hr |
Flagstaff | 1 hr 45 min |
Page | 2 hrs 30 min |
Phoenix Major airport | 3 hrs 45 min |
Las Vegas Major airport | 4 hrs 30 min |
The best time to hike Rim-to-Rim Trail is in late May, and from September to November.
While both itineraries share the same trail North of the Colorado river, there are two options on the South Rim side.
Recommended if you’re planning to take over three days and you’re traveling southbound since you can stop at Indian Gradens on the way up South Rim.
Recommended if you prefer a more serene experience and you don’t mind the extra difficulty.
5:55 AM | from Flagstaff, drive to the Backcountry Information Center | 1 hr 45 min |
7:40 AM | walk to Bright Angel Lodge | 20 min |
8:00 AM | take the Trans-Canyon Shuttle to North Kaibab Trailhead | 5 hrs |
1:00 PM | Arrive at North Kaibab Trailhead |
Date | Camp | Mileage | Elevation gain/loss |
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Thu, Nov 28 | - | 24.2 mi | 5,900 ft+ / 7,300 ft- |
8:00 AM | from Bright Angel Trailhead, walk to Bright Angel Lodge | 5 min |
8:05 AM | take the Blue Line Shuttle to the Backcountry Information Center | 10 min |
8:15 AM | drive to Flagstaff | 1 hr 45 min |
10:00 AM | Arrive at Flagstaff |
Permit. A Grand Canyon National Park Backcountry Permit is required for this trip.
There are 3 ways to obtain one:
Here is how to fill out the permit application:
Entry | North Kaibab Trailhead |
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Exit | Bright Angel Trailhead |
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