Phantom Ranch via South Kaibab Trail

The South Kaibab Trail is the second-most visited trail in the entire Grand Canyon. With several viewpoints accessible without any extreme hiking, it’s a great trail to wander down to take in the grandeur of the Grand Canyon. Those bound for Phantom Ranch will deal with more intense grades and intimidating sections of the trail. We don’t recommend trying to do this hike in a day. Book in at Phantom Ranch or Bright Angel to break up this big trek.

There may be mules on this trail packing out trash from Phantom Ranch. Should you come up to mules, listen to the handler’s directions on how to pass them. If you come up from behind, just announce yourself and listen for instructions on how to pass once it’s safe to do so.

From the trailhead, you’ll hike out along the ridge. About a half-mile into the outbound trip, you’ll pass Yaki Point on your right, a popular viewpoint. At the point, look out over the amazing view to the east. Ahead of you is Cedar Ridge, a popular turnaround point for casual hikers. Ahead of Cedar Ridge is O’Neill Butte, from which there’s plenty of canyon to appreciate in almost all directions. Hiking around the east side of the butte, you’ll continue to Skeleton Point. This is where things get interesting.

Descend through very steep switchbacks, then continue down to a suspension bridge. Hike off the edge of The Tipoff, winding down towards the river. More switchbacks take you to the Kaibab Suspension Bridge. Cross, pass Bright Angel Campground, and arrive at Phantom Ranch. The return trip follows the same route.