Easy Hikes Near the South Rim for Beginners
If it’s your first time visiting the Grand Canyon, you might be wondering: are there any easy hikes that don’t require serious gear or expert-level endurance?
Good news: yes, there are! While the canyon is famous for its steep and strenuous trails, the South Rim offers plenty of beginner-friendly hikes with jaw-dropping views and minimal elevation change. Whether you’re hiking with kids, want a gentle stroll before sunset, or just aren’t ready to tackle switchbacks yet, this guide is for you.
At Highland Grand Canyon, we often help guests plan their first hikes and these are our top recommendations.
1. Rim Trail (Pick Your Distance)
Distance: Up to 13 miles one-way (but you can hike short sections)
Elevation: Mostly flat
Best for: Beginners, families, and anyone avoiding steep climbs
The Rim Trail hugs the canyon edge from Hermit’s Rest to the South Kaibab Trailhead, and it’s mostly paved and relatively flat, making it ideal for all ages and abilities. Shuttle stops let you hop on or off along the way.
Best section for beginners: Try walking from Mather Point to Yavapai Point, or from Verkamp’s Visitor Center to Kolb Studio. These routes are short, scenic, and great for photography.
Pro tip: Go early or late for fewer crowds and softer lighting. Many Rim Trail sections are partially shaded and perfect for a leisurely stroll.
2. Shoshone Point Trail
Distance: 2.1 miles round trip
Elevation: Minimal
Best for: A quiet, lesser-known hike with big views
If you’re looking for an easy trail away from the crowds, Shoshone Point is a favorite among locals. Located off Desert View Drive, this hidden dirt trail leads to a scenic overlook with picnic tables and forest solitude.
Pro tip: Bring a flashlight if you plan to stay for sunset, it gets dark fast on the way back.
3. Trail of Time
Distance: 1.7 miles one-way
Elevation: Mostly flat
Best for: Learning about geology while you walk
This paved interpretive trail runs from Yavapai Geology Museum to Verkamp’s Visitor Center, with markers explaining the canyon’s formation over millions of years. It's a great way to blend education and exploration on the South Rim.
4. Bright Angel Trail (First ½ Mile Only)
Distance: ~1 mile round trip
Elevation Gain: ~300 feet
Best for: Tasting canyon depth without a full descent
The Bright Angel Trail is iconic but you don’t need to go far to feel the canyon. Walking the first half-mile offers dramatic views and inner canyon insight, but remember that climbing back up takes more effort.
Pro tip: Wear grippy shoes, bring water, and turn around early if it’s hot. This short intro is great if you’re getting into canyon hiking.
5. West Rim Hike: Mohave Point to Hopi Point
Distance: ~1 mile one-way, downhill
Elevation: Gentle descent
Best for: Walkers not afraid of heights who want dramatic views
Accessible via the free Hermit Road shuttle bus, the West Rim includes popular viewpoints like Mohave and Hopi. If heights don’t bother you, consider hiking downhill from Mohave Point to Hopi Point. The path offers expansive views and is mostly smooth and gradual.
Tips for First-Time Hikers at the Grand Canyon
Start early for cooler temperatures and soft lighting
Carry water and salty snacks. Staying hydrated is key, even on easy hikes
Know your limits and feel free to turn around at any time
Check shuttle schedules: the Hopi, Hermit, and Village shuttles can help you loop hikes easily
Dress in layers as weather can shift quickly, especially in spring and fall
Stay Minutes from These Trails
Highland Grand Canyon is just 15 minutes from the South Rim, giving you early access to these beginner hikes without battling park traffic. After your adventure, come back to a luxury safari tent with hot showers, cozy linens, and stars overhead.
Whether this is your first trip or your tenth, these South Rim walking trails are an ideal start and Highland is the perfect base from which to explore.
