South Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge
The classic introductory South Kaibab day hike to a broad ridge with toilets and expansive views.
Route overview
Descend South Kaibab Trail past Ooh-Aah Point to Cedar Ridge and return.
Cedar Ridge is the NPS-recommended turnaround for first-time canyon hikers, casual hikers and late starters. The ridge gives broad views in multiple directions, but there is no water and almost no shade. In summer NPS advises day hikers not to continue beyond this point.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- South Rim, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
- Distance
- 4.8 km round trip
- Typical duration
- 2–4 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- approximately 347 m on return
- Best season
- Spring and autumn; do not continue beyond Cedar Ridge as a summer day hike
- Trail type
- Out and back
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Heat, no water, little shade, mule traffic, fatigue and ice
Highlights
Cedar Ridge, Ooh-Aah Point, open ridge panoramas
Why find a buddy
Useful for shared pacing and an objective turnaround before conditions deteriorate.
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.