7 Amazing Trails Near (But Not In) the Grand Canyon
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Formed by ancient waters carved through layers of volcanic rock and sediment millions of years ago, the Grand Canyon is a spectacle like no other. This geological phenomenon attracts people from all around the globe who wish to explore the vast landscape positioned in the northwest corner of Arizona. Kaibab National Forest is nestled along the north and south rims and offers some terrific trails to explore. Here are 7 amazing trails near the Grand Canyon to consider for your next hiking adventure.
If you're looking for Grand Canyon travel tips, don't worry - we got you covered!
1. Rainbow Rim Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 38.5 miles
Route type: There and back
Elevation gain: 2,962 ft
Dog friendly: Yes
The famous Rainbow Rim Trail extends entirely within the national forest. Free to access and open to hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, and backpackers, this expansive trail provides plenty of opportunities for a variety of outdoor activities. The route stretches over 18 miles in one direction and connects five Grand Canyon observation spots along dirt Forest Service roads. Each observation site along the path offers not only panoramic views of the Canyon but also unique glimpses of geologic features like Tapeats Amphitheater, Steamboat Mountain, Powell Plateau, Mt. Trumble, and Great Thumb Mesas.
2. Grandview Trail
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 12.5 miles
Route type: Loop
Elevation gain: 3,937 ft
Dog friendly: No
For a more challenging hike, you may want to explore the Grandview Trail. The trail, which was formerly a miner's route, is not as well maintained as some of the other routes and is best suited to more experienced hikers. You'll come across rugged and narrow pathways with sheer drop-offs along the way, which are not for the faint of heart. With such a challenging hike comes great rewards, as you’ll be gifted with incredible views of the vibrant, multi-colored landscape.
3. Lookout Canyon Trail #120
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 11.2 miles
Route type: Point to point
Elevation gain: 1,256 ft
Dog friendly: Yes
Lookout Canyon Trail is a great place to get away from the busy crowds and find yourself in a beautiful forest. There are many trails with the same name, but each has a different number. All of them traverse through gorgeous paths full of ponderosa pines, but they each offer a unique scenic view. Trail #120 gradually leads you to the bottom of Lookout Canyon through a series of dense forests and vibrant meadows.
4. Sycamore Rim Trail
Kaibab National Forest.
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 12.1 miles
Route type: Loop
Elevation gain: 1,223 ft
Dog friendly: Yes
Sycamore Rim Trail is an 11-mile loop located in the Kaibab National Forest offering some amazing vistas. There are many different trailheads to begin your hike from, but the most popular option is the Sycamore Falls Trailhead. Once you’ve reached the trailhead, begin your hike going clockwise to help get the elevation gain out of the way early. Along this trail are the Pomeroy Tanks, which are natural reservoirs that create a perennial source of water. Once you pass the tanks you’ll hike up KA Hill where you’ll have incredible views of Bill Williams Mountain and Flagstaff’s San Francisco Peaks. This is a great trail for hiking, biking, rock climbing and exploring!
5. Bill Williams Mountain Trail
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 7.5 miles
Route type: There and back
Elevation gain: 2,385 ft
Dog friendly: Yes
The Bill Williams Mountain Trail is an incredibly steep but beautiful hike within the Kaibab National Forest. The trail begins flat and paved as you walk into a deep forest of pine. Continue for about a thousand feet and you’ll hit your first intersection with Clover Spring Trail situated on your left. Continue straight and follow the green diamond blazes on the fence posts guiding you to the summit. Once at the summit you’ll discover the famous Bill Williams Lookout Tower. You can climb most of the way up the tower for some truly spectacular views of the vast landscape below. The total elevation is over 9,000 ft and the hike may take up to 5 or more hours to complete. Come prepared with proper gear and plenty of water.
6. Jumpup-Nail Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 6.7 miles
Route type: There and back
Elevation gain: -2,000 ft
Dog friendly: Yes
The Jumpup-Nail Trail is located within the Kanab Creek Wilderness. It begins as a steep descent into Jumpup Canyon, where you’ll discover popular accesses to Kanab Creek and the Colorado River. The trails are narrow and steep, but they offer a stunning glimpse into the vermillion colored cliffs that make this canyon come alive. The trail is in a remote area with limited water access, so be sure to carry plenty of water on your hike, especially during high summer temperatures.
7. Gooseneck Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 14.4 miles
Route type: There and back
Elevation gain: 708 ft
Dog friendly: Yes
This is a rocky trail on the Grand Canyon's North Rim that leads to a primitive wilderness area. It's a more daring run than others on our list due to the limited transport options, but the landscape is unrivaled. The trail is named for a large peninsula of land that it passes through, providing amazing views of Kanab Creek Canyon from a 2,000-foot vantage point. The trailhead is located on FR 227, which may be difficult for vehicles with low clearance.
These are only a few of many trails that should be added to your list when visiting this magical location in Arizona. Unique rock formations, ancient trees and a history that can be heard through the winds are great reasons to strap on your boots and take a hike on one of these trails. Some of the trails are meant for more experienced hikers, but that doesn’t mean you can’t hike them if you’re a beginner. Just take your time and keep well hydrated. It’s also very important to stay on designated marked trails so you don’t get lost. Enjoy the journey!
View from North Timp Point looking towards the Grand Canyon. Featured image by: Kaibab National Forest.
