The Rim Trail is an easy trail running for 9.3 miles along Grand Canyon's South Rim. Needless to say, it comes with a view. The eastern half, from Maricopa Point to Pipe Creek, is paved and runs through several popular viewpoints. It can be challenging when crowds are present and you may have to wait for people to finish snapping pictures. Sunrise is a good time for this half. Tourists are few and photography is better. There are rails to protect tourists, but parents should still hold on to young children.
The western half is not paved, has some canyon exposure (no young children) and even some mild climbing. Since I was on a family trip not dedicated to hiking, I did not do the entire trail. The Colorado River can be seen more along this stretch than elsewhere in the canyon. We had to use the bus route to Hermit's Rest for this hike. Consult the free newspaper for schedules and stopping points. Note that the bus does not stop at all points on the eastbound return. You may have to first go west to return east.
I wish this was closer to home. I could make this trail a weekly ritual.
Good signage makes the Rim Trail easy to follow.
A mile drop doesn't concern this squirrel.
Mary & Justin on the Rim Trail.
Justin on the edge..
The Colorado turns red near sunset.