Sixteen trails and numerous obscure routes provide access to the inner canyon. None of these trails are easy. Only the South Kaibab, Bright Angel, and North Kaibab Trails are maintained and patrolled by trail crews on a regular basis. These wider corridor trails offer expansive views, reliable water sources, great camping, and the opportunity for hiking in and out on different trails. Backcountry Rangers highly recommend this area, especially for a first Grand Canyon adventure.
Most visitors begin and end their hikes from the South Rim.
North Rim Hikes Roads leading to the North Rim are closed during winter months due to heavy snowfall. Depending upon weather conditions, these roads are usually open from mid May to the end of October. The hiking distance from the North Rim to the bottom of the canyon is twice as far as from the South Rim to the bottom. Three nights are the minimum recommended for a round trip from the North Rim. Out Night 5 Hike Out Since most people live at elevations near sea level, they find that hiking in high elevations greatly contributes to their fatigue.