Rim Trail (South Rim) is a 13 mi trail with 200 ft of climbing — about 4h 25m of moving time before you stop for anything. Leashed dogs are welcome, and it takes a stroller. About 15% of it is shaded, and there is water on the route to refill from.
Underfoot & overhead paved rim — walk any segment
13 mi and 200 ft of climbing work out to 4h 25m of moving time — before you stop for anything. There is water on the route to refill from. Informational only, not medical advice.
Get the fall refuel plan →NAISMITH · CDC · ACSM · how these numbers are worked out
In July, Grand Canyon National Park runs around 84°F at the main visitor elevation, and this route gives you almost nothing to hide under.
54°F · Showers And Thunderstorms · wind 3 to 9 mph
NOAA forecast for Grand Canyon National Park — not for this trailhead specificallyThe North Rim Scenic Drives (Cape Royal Road and Point Imperial Road) are closed through sunrise Nov. 3, 2026, to accommodate critical road repair and rehabilitation work. No services, fuel, and no water are...
Live NPS alert for Grand Canyon National Park · sourceCurrent trail closures: the entire North Kaibab Trail (including Cottonwood Campground), Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Campground, Silver Bridge, and the Black Bridge. Please do not attempt to access the closed areas.
Live NPS alert for Grand Canyon National ParkAbout 4h 25m of moving time for 13 mi and 200 ft of climbing — that is Naismith's planning rule, so it counts walking only, with nothing for photos, lunch or the queue at the top.
Planning figures for that much moving time are 2.2–4.4 L, cool day to hot. There is water on the route, so you can refill. Informational only, not medical advice.
Yes — leashed dogs are allowed on Rim Trail (South Rim). Leashes (6 ft max) are required everywhere in Grand Canyon National Park.
We rate it comfortable from age 0. It takes a stroller. That rating is our own hand-check of length, footing and exposure, not an official NPS grade.
About 15% of the route is shaded, and Grand Canyon National Park peaks around 84°F in its hottest month. The less shade a route has, the more of it you want behind you before midday.
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