Going the Extra Mile(s): Hiking the Grand Canyon’s South Rim
By Jake
Williams, Arizona might look like just another small town off I‑40, but for me it became the perfect basecamp: the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon.” From this small Arizona town, I set out on two days of hikes along the South Rim, experiencing sunrise vistas, quiet trails, and encounters with wildlife.
Day One: Sunrise at Mather Point
Arriving just before dawn, I hurried to Mather Point to catch the first light spreading across the canyon. The moment was worth every early‑morning shiver: the red and orange hues slowly lit up the buttes and cliffs.
From there, I set out on the Rim Trail east toward the South Kaibab trailhead. This 2.5‑mile stretch was peaceful, with few crowds and abundant wildlife. Small animals darted across the path and a herd of mule deer crossed casually just ahead of me. At South Kaibab, breathtaking vistas opened across the canyon before I turned back toward Mather Point to close out the day.
Quick Tips:
Arrive early for sunrise; parking fills fast.
Total hike out‑and‑back: ~5 miles.
Shuttle service available at South Kaibab if you’d rather not walk back.
Day Two: Rim Trail to Hermit’s Rest
The next morning I headed west along the Rim Trail. The first 2.5 miles are paved and gentle, passing landmarks like the Yavapai Geology Museum and the Trail of Time—a fascinating outdoor exhibit that traces millions of years of geologic history.
Passing through Grand Canyon Village, the trail winds around Lookout Studio, Kolb Studio, and after the village opens up to a series of overlooks including Maricopa, Powell, Hopi, and Mohave Points. Some sections skirt close to the edge, offering thrilling views straight down into the canyon and out across the Colorado River.
The final stretch, the Hermit’s Road Greenway Trail, leads 2.8 miles to Hermit’s Rest, a rustic stone building that makes the perfect end‑point for a long day on the rim.
Quick Tips:
Total hike length: ~11 miles one‑way (use the shuttle back).
Stop for views at Powell Point’s John Wesley Powell monument.
Carry water and watch footing on unpaved stretches.
Grateful Reflections
Across two days and ~16 miles, I gained more than photos: a renewed appreciation for the rangers who keep the park running, the wildlife that inhabits it, and the trails that make the canyon accessible. The Grand Canyon truly rewards those willing to go the extra miles.
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