Rim Trail — South Kaibab Trailhead to Mather Point
An easy rim walk linking the South Kaibab trailhead, Pipe Creek Vista and Mather Point.
Route overview
Follow the signed Rim Trail west from the South Kaibab Trailhead through Pipe Creek Vista to Mather Point.
This eastern Rim Trail section gives continuous inner-canyon views without descending below the rim. It combines a quiet approach from the South Kaibab Trailhead with Pipe Creek Vista and the busy Mather Point area. Shuttle access makes it easy to complete one way, but hikers still need water, sun protection and lightning awareness.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- South Rim, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
- Distance
- 3.5 km one way
- Typical duration
- 1–1.5 hours
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Elevation gain
- Minimal rolling elevation change
- Best season
- Year-round, with winter traction and summer storm awareness
- Trail type
- Point to point
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No for ordinary non-commercial day hiking
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Lightning, winter ice, sun exposure, cliff edges and shuttle logistics
Highlights
Pipe Creek Vista, Mather Point, broad canyon panorama
Why find a buddy
A low-commitment route for testing pace and compatibility while sharing shuttle planning.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.