Explore the Tombstone Peak, Also Known as Skeleton Point
The South Kaibab Trail, a highlight of the Arizona Trail (AZT), offers an unforgettable hiking experience and is frequently used in Rim to Rim hikes. It is the second most popular trail after the Bright Angel Trail, having been the first trail from the rim to the river built by the Parks Service, opening in 1925.
Located near the Kaibab National Forest, the trail goes through the Kaibab Limestone layer of rock found at the top. Mules are present on the trail, supplying and hauling trash for Phantom Ranch, making for an interesting encounter during your hike.
Reaching the South Kaibab Trailhead from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center is straightforward. The free Eastbound Kaibab Rim Route (Orange) shuttle is the recommended mode of access. This shuttle departs directly from the Visitor Center Shuttle Bus Terminal, stops first at the South Kaibab Trailhead, and runs every 30 minutes from 4:00 AM to 6:30 AM, then every 15 minutes from 6:30 AM until 30 minutes after sunset.
On the trail, it's important to remember that mules aren't aggressive, but they can bite, so it's best to keep your hands to yourself and not try to pet or feed them. When passing mules head-on, stand to the side of the trail and follow the mule handler's instructions. Mules leave at variable times, usually around mid-morning, and there are no tourist rides on the South Kaibab Trail.
Camping is not allowed on the South Kaibab Trail; the only camping option is at Bright Angel Campground at the very bottom of the trail. It's also worth noting that there are no toilets at Skeleton Point, the trail's end at a distance of 3 miles and an elevation of 5200 feet.
Remember, the South Kaibab Trail is a corridor trail, heavily used and actively maintained. With a standard gradient of 10% and a standard width of 4 feet wide, it provides a challenging yet accessible hike for many. So, grab your gear, board the Orange Route shuttle, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the Grand Canyon with the South Kaibab Trail.
[1] Grand Canyon National Park Service: Shuttle Information [2] Grand Canyon National Park Service: South Kaibab Trail [3] Grand Canyon National Park Service: South Kaibab Trailhead
- The South Kaibab Trail is part of the Arizona Trail (AZT) and is a popular choice for day hikes and Rim to Rim treks.
- The trail traverses the Kaibab Limestone layer and is situated near the Kaibab National Forest in the Grand Canyon.
- Mules are common on the trail, serving as pack animals for Phantom Ranch, adding an intriguing aspect to the hiking experience.
- To access the South Kaibab Trailhead, take the free Eastbound Kaibab Rim Route (Orange) shuttle from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, which runs multiple times a day.
- While mules are not aggressive, they may bite, so hikers should avoid trying to pet or feed them, and follow mule handlers' instructions when passing by.
- Camping is not permitted on the South Kaibab Trail; the only camping option is at Bright Angel Campground at the trail's end.
- Hiking the South Kaibab Trail requires proper gear and preparation, making it an exciting addition to your outdoor lifestyle, home-and-garden, sports, travel, and nature-focused activities.
