Canyon Quest
Embark on an adventure down the South Kaibab Trail, a historic rim-to-river path known for its sweeping views, ancient fossils, and remarkable plant and animal life. Experience the canyon from a whole new perspective as you hike below the rim, where every step reveals deeper layers of geologic time and ever-changing scenery.
- Dates:
Saturdays
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trip Length: 6 Hours
- Cost: $110/person
- Group size: 6
Descend the Iconic South Kaibab Trail
The distance you travel will depend on the group’s pace and weather conditions. The hike may take you as far as Skeleton Point—a stunning 6-mile round trip—where you can pause for a picnic and take in some of the most breathtaking views in Grand Canyon. Your day will end just as it began: immersed in the awe-inspiring beauty of this remarkable landscape.
Trip Highlights
- Descend deep into Grand Canyon along high ridge lines with jaw-dropping views
- Witness the canyon’s geology unfold layer by layer beneath your feet
- Walk among some of the oldest sedimentary rocks in the world
- Hike the legendary first trail constructed by the National Park Service
Itinerary
Meet at South Kaibab Trailhead for introductions and a safety talk. Once the group is ready, you will begin hiking down the trail & stop at scenic points. The maximum distance will be to Skeleton Point, 6 miles round-trip. The average tour will hike to Cedar Ridge for a 3-mile round trip. The tour will end at South Kaibab Trailhead.
Don't forget to bring:
- Picnic lunch
- Comfortable, athletic or hiking shoes with GOOD tread
- 2 liters of water per person (33 ounces = 1 liter)
- Comfortable backpack to hold: snacks, water, and other items (please don't forget SNACKS!)
- Sun protection: Sunglasses, Wide-brimmed hats, Sunscreen
- Rain gear for monsoon season
- Please check the gear list in your itinerary for further ideas and information!
Is your group larger than 6? Want to hike a little longer? Don't see the date you want?
Email our office to for more information GCCFI@grandcayon.org
Additional notes
Where should you stay?
Participants should come seasonally prepared and be enthusiastic about outdoor exploration. We do not cancel or transfer tours for weather events.
- Is your group larger than 6?
- Want to hike a little longer?
- Don't see the date you want?
- Please email us for group rates at GCCFI@grandcanyon.org.
Click here to view more guided tours of Grand Canyon.
Cancellation Policy
If a cancellation is made more than 72 hours before the start of the tour, a 50% refund will be issued. If the cancellation is made within 24 hours of the tour's start, no refund will be provided, and the full program fee will be retained. All reservations retain a 10% administrative fee.
Reserved spots are transferable to different trips, if there is availability. This transfer can occur up to 14 days prior to the trip's start date.
Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute reserves the right to cancel all or a portion of a trip due the following circumstances; failure to meet the participant minimum and loss of scheduled staff due to injury or illness. In this event, participants will receive a full refund.
In addition, Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute may cancel a trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather events, natural disasters, park closures, and health emergencies, and there is no alternative trip available to you. In this event, if Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute cancels 5 days or more prior to departure, the customer will receive a full refund. If the trip is a day or private program and GCCFI cancels 4 days or less the customer will receive trip credit.
Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute is not responsible for: flight tickets, visa fees if applicable, gear, medical expenses, clothing, and any expenses occurred while preparing for this trip.
We highly recommend the purchase of trip insurance to help offset any cost incurred if cancellation occurs.
Testimonials
The Zelkovic Family
“Our day with the Field Institute exceeded all our expectations and we came away with a great respect for the canyon and for the work of the Conservancy. It was such a wonderful experience from beginning to end and hope we can return in the not so distant future to participate in one of your multi-day programs.”
The Jankowskis
“Our family’s experience was nothing short of amazing! Slim (our guide) provided a perspective we would have never been able to get on our own and we learned so much. Her passion for the canyon and what she does came through too, which made our time something we’ll never forget!”
Amy Waits
“The guides were awesome – so educational and patient!!! Encouraging & helpful in every way. Such an amazing first visit to the canyon – Life changing to have experienced the GC up close & personal… Thank you so much!”
Joe Sweeney
“I've brought many school groups to the Field Institute and the quality of instruction provides them with an understanding of Indigenous cultures, diverse ecology, and geologic history. Students leave with a stronger sense of self-confidence, an intimate connection to nature, and memories that will last a lifetime.”
Andy M.
“Top to bottom, the Field Institute exceeded all of my expectations .... they ensured we packed wisely for our trip and saved me from lugging around 5 lbs. of junk I didn't need. Overall, it's packed with value that I don't think commercial outfitters would provide and delivered a deeply rich experience.”