Grand Canyon South Kaibab 4-Day
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Overview:
The South Kaibab Trail is a challenging route walk from the South Rim to the inner Grand Canyon. The route has extreme exposure in certain locations and has sweeping views highlighting the beauty of the Grand Canyon. This route is the shortest path into the inner canyon; an area of intense extremes, from massive cliff walls to the exciting rapids of the Colorado River. Our route follows a trail with no water but there are 2 rest areas with limited shade and restrooms along the route. Be ready for unforgettable views, intense beauty and the challenge of a lifetime.
Good for families with older children [10 years old minimum], novice to intermediate hikers, and those with limited or no experience in desert environments.
Challenge:
Additional Information:
Getting to Grand Canyon: The closest public airport to Grand Canyon is in Tusayan but this has extremely limited flights. It is best to consider flying in to either Flagstaff [1.5 hour drive], Phoenix [3.5 hour drive] or Las Vegas [3.5 hour drive]. You will need to rent a car or hire transportation to Grand Canyon Village to meet your guide.
Accommodations: Prior to heading to the backcountry you will need to secure accommodations. This can be found either in Grand Canyon Village [El Tovar Hotel, Bright Angel Lodge, Yavapai Lodge, Maswik Lodge, or Mather Campground] or in Tusayan [10 minutes South of the park entrance] or Williams [1 hour South of the park entrance].
Park Entry: To enter Grand Canyon National Park you need either a valid National Parks Pass, Military ID, or be prepared to pay the entrance fee [$20 as of 2023].
Passports: Not required for this adventure.
Options: This hike can be enjoyed as a shorter hike [3 days] with a longer first day and hiking out from Bright Angel Campground.
What’s Included:
A certified and highly experienced 4Points Grand Canyon Hiking Guide
All meals on trail
Permits and campsites for the duration of your time in the Grand Canyon Backcountry
What’s not included:
Gratuities: 15-20% gratuity recommended for guide
Price: $1700 per person/4 days
Group Size: Regular group size is 6 [which includes 1 guide]; large group size is 11 [which includes 2 guides]. Large group sites can be very difficult to secure during peak season [March to September].
Participant Requirements: Clients need to be physically capable of descending into and climbing out of the inner canyon. This is a 5,000 foot elevation change. Be mindful of the intense summer heat within the canyon (temperatures can exceed 120°F). Additionally, ensure you can carry a 35-40 lb pack for the duration of your trip.
Itinerary:
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Meet with your guide for a pre-trip orientation to discuss logistics, hand out gear, and talk about what to expect on the trail. Meals and lodging will be on your own either in Grand Canyon Village, locally in Tusayan [10 minutes from the park], or in Williams [about one hour South of the park entrance].
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Distance: 7 miles
Elevation Loss: 4,800 feetThis adventure begins with our group meeting in Grand Canyon Village and a short bus ride to the South Kaibab Trailhead. Our route begins to descend immediately, and we pass Ooh Ah Point, and continue down to Cedar Ridge for a short break. You can begin to appreciate the intense scale of the canyon as we hike along soaring cliffs, with epic vistas and ever-changing colors. As we pass Skeleton Point we begin to see the inner canyon before we begin our final descent toward the Colorado River, the Black Bridge, and our final destination for the day at Bright Angel Campground. After we set up camp we’ll explore historical Phantom Ranch and grab a cool drink while we appreciate the beauty of Bright Angel Creek.
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Distance: 5 miles
Elevation Gain/Loss: MinimalAfter a hearty breakfast prepared by your guide, the group will explore the inner canyon by hiking along the North Kaibab Trail to Shadow Creek. We’ll find the hidden oasis of Shadow Falls: This small waterfall is our destination and a perfect spot to soak under the cool waters of Shadow Creek.
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Distance: 4.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,500 feetOn our 3 rd day of hiking, we ascend out of the inner canyon. Our route today challenges the Devil’s Corkscrew and the amazing rock formations of Garden Creek. Our campsite comes into view as we approach Havasupai Garden, a lush paradise of Cottonwood Trees, grasses, and Garden Creek flowing through. After setting up camp, we’ll take time to cool off in Garden Creek before we pack up our dinner to enjoy sunset at the incredible Plateau Point.
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Distance: 5 miles
Elevation Gain: 3,000 feetYour guide will help you start the day early with a quick breakfast and pack up so we can hit the trail for our hike back to Grand Canyon Village. Our route today has rest houses placed about every 1.5 miles with shade, water, and restrooms. The final ascent to the summit of the Bright Angel Trail will challenge you; but the reward is reaching the top of the route at the South Rim and completing the journey of a lifetime.
