6 hours
Mobile ticket
The South Kaibab Trail offers some of the most breathtaking views in the Grand Canyon, and our guided hike ensures you experience it like never before. Our expert guides are passionate about the canyon’s history, geology, and natural wonders, weaving stories and facts into your journey for a truly unforgettable adventure.
Unlike other trails, the South Kaibab’s ridge-top route provides unmatched, 360-degree panoramic views at every turn—perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike. We keep group sizes small for a more personal experience, ensuring you connect with your guide and fellow hikers.
Whether you’re marveling at sunrise over Ooh Aah Point or standing in awe at Cedar Ridge, this hike promises an adventure that is both challenging and rewarding, leaving you with memories to last a lifetime. Let us handle the logistics while you soak in the canyon’s beauty.
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Snacks
Lunch
Guide is licensed and certified
Backpack and Trekking Poles
Bottled water
Entrance fee
Gratuity for Guide
Join us for an unforgettable day hike along the stunning South Kaibab Trail, one of the most iconic and scenic routes in the Grand Canyon. Starting at Yaki Point, you'll descend into the canyon along a ridge that offers sweeping, panoramic views not found on other trails. Along the way, your expert guide will share fascinating insights into the geology, history, and ecology of the canyon. We'll make our way to popular landmarks such as Ooh Aah Point, Cedar Ridge, and possibly Skeleton Point, depending on the group's pace and preferences. You'll have time to soak in the incredible vistas, snap breathtaking photos, and enjoy a peaceful moment surrounded by the grandeur of the canyon. This hike is moderately strenuous, but the pace will be adjusted to suit the group. We’ll ensure you stay safe, hydrated, and energized throughout the journey. Whether you’re a first-time hiker or a seasoned adventurer, this trail offers a rewarding and unforgettable experience.
23 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
kendrickh222,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
I had a great time. Louis was a phenomenal tour guide and i didn't feel like he was just "at work" or only doing his job, you know? I felt like we were hiking together. It was the favorite part of my trip to the canyon, I would recommend it to anyone considering a tour through it as well.
Y6834FKjohnh,
Oct 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Our Grand Canyon hike was an amazing experience that left us with a sense of awe and gratitude, creating memories that'll last a lifetime. As we descended into the canyon, our guide, Chris, pointed out geological formations, explained the history behind the layered rocks, and shared stories of the many hikes he had made through the canyon. One of the highlights was learning how to use basic navigation skills with the landscape as our guide. We also learned about a local plant found along the trail called Mormon tea. As we chewed on the plant, Chris explained its anti-inflammatory properties and its role in traditional remedies. These are just a couple of examples that transformed the hike into an educational adventure. The hike back up the trail proved challenging for my wife, especially as dusk approached. Chris’s patience and genuine concern stood out during this time, as he encouraged her every step of the way and adjusted our pace. This was very much appreciated by both of us. Afterwards, we still had the meal that was planned for the trip, even though it was pitch dark and the park was closed by then. Reflecting on our day, we felt not only inspired by the grandeur of the canyon but deeply touched by Chris’s guidance, kindness, and companionship. The hike itself left us with a renewed appreciation for nature. If you’re visiting the Grand Canyon, we highly recommend this excursion. It’s an experience that will stay with you long after you leave the trail.
S2940LKsoniam,
Oct 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Chris was an ‘awesome:awesome’ who thought of everything and anticipated our needs at every step. A wonderful part of the hike was our lunch complete with checkered tablecloth and great host. We would highly recommend this trip Sonia and Nicky

Jean D,
Oct 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We did the sunset hike on South Kaibab trail to Cedar Ridge with Chase and it was an excellent experience. The hike was beautiful and Chase was an amazing guide. He did a great job coordinating logistics, even bringing dinner down for us to enjoy. His passion for the Canyon came through during our hike and he was full of info on the history/geology of the area. We couldn’t have been happier with the experience!
Karen P,
Oct 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
My husband and I had a wonderful hike on 9/27/25 with Chris. I had some concerns about thunder storms forecast the day before the hike. He was responsive and called me back to discuss and further plan our trip. We ended up doing the Bright Angel trail instead of the original plan as it was near where we were staying at Thunderbird Lodge. He suggested to start early, at 6 am to avoid the afternoon showers. The day of hike he brought us the backbacks ,poles and yummy snacks to the trailhead. Very considerate. Throughout, Chris was a knowledgeable and entertaining guide. We saw fossils and petroglyphs we would have missed otherwise. We felt very safe with his guidance. We hiked approx 4.5 miles down the canyon to the Havasupai Gardens where Chris made us great wraps for lunch. The hike back up out of the canyon was challenging with 3300 ft of elevation. My husband and I are very fit, but Chris checked with us frequently to make sure we tolerated the climbing. We never felt rushed or uncomfortable. We feel like we experienced much more during the hike than we would have without a guide. Highly recommend this company!
journeygirl0824,
Sep 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Chris was, without exception, the best guide we have ever had. He was passionate about the Canyon and extremely knowledgeable about its history, cultures, and organic life. He was patient and respectful of our needs and made sure that the experience was fun for us. Also, he made us a delicious late lunch on the trail. We will certainly seek him out for any future adventures in the area.

T2953PXalbertk,
Sep 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Doing the hike with Chris as a guide was cool. The wealth of additional information about the area and the people made the hike entertaining. A tour with Chris is highly recommended!

dwpaul,
Jul 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
To Fellow Hikers, Very professional company with a responsive owner. We had a hiccup on our end with our scheduling company and the good folks at The Dessert Hiking Company fixed everything. I knew the hike would be challenging and I had a healthy respect for the canyon before entering, which is why I decided our first hike should be done with a guide. We had a family of 5 including 3 teenagers. Our guide was Chris. He was great at communicating and very experienced at working with hikers of all skill levels. Our hike ended up being a little over 4 miles to Cedar Ridge and back. Chris provided plenty of education and entertainment throughout the hike. We made it down to Cedar Ridge not before stopping at Ooh Ah point for a picture. At Cedar Ridge, Chris made us a great lunch of wraps that he had previously discussed with us before the hike to make sure there were no issues. Then, after some fun with wild life(squirrels and a couple of Ravens), we started the ascent. This is where Chris earned our greatest respect because he was very patient and stopped many times for us so we could enjoy the hike back to the top. He shared some pro-tip hiking techniques and some personal stories that helped us get through the most challenging sections of the climb. We highly recommend Chris and The Dessert Hiking Company. David





Michael D,
Jun 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
Chris was a fantastic Grand Canyon tour guide. He was punctual and had everything ready to go right on time. Throughout the tour, he shared fascinating insights into the canyon’s geology, botany, and history, showing a deep knowledge and love for the area. His down-to-earth personality made the experience feel relaxed and engaging, and he kept the group moving at a perfect pace—not too fast, not too slow. Chris was also incredibly hospitable, making everyone feel welcome and cared for. Most of all, he was just genuinely nice—kind, approachable, and clearly passionate about what he does. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide.

Jill L,
Jun 3, 2025
- Review from Viator
This was an incredible experience for my husband and I. Chris was our guide and he tailored the hike, food, and pace to us specifically. He was so knowledgeable, we truly learned so much from him on this trip. I cannot say enough how worth while it was to have a guide for our first Grand Canyon hike. We will definitely be back! Thank you for an amazing experience.
Operated by The Desert Hiking Company