Grandview Trail Route Guide
Table of contents
Route Description for Grandview Trail
The Grandview Trail begins to descend to the right of the scenic viewpoint. For the first few switchbacks it will most likely be relatively crowded — typically by people with tripods trying to get a better shot. By the third or fourth switchback, however, the crowds really die down. This trail is far less travelled than the Bright Angel orthe Kaibab trail.
Once considered to be the best way down to the river, the path now has a few scary sections. There are several spots with steep, unguarded cliffs right beside the trail. Coupled with the trail’s steepness and the slick cobblestones that it’s composed of, this hike may be a bit precarious for some.
You will switchback down the face of the canyon for a few hundred meters, then veer right and go around a few points. These all offer fantastic views almost all the way to the Colorado River.
The first half of the Grandview Trail (approximately the first 3/5 of the elevation change) has pretty good shade coverage for most of the day. However, as you round the final bend and hike out along the side of one of the canyons, the shade disappears. Coupled with the lack of water, this can make the last section of the hike miserable. It doesn’t have to be, however, if you hike early and bring plenty of water to drink (and to pour on yourself).
Visible early on in the hike, Horseshoe Mesa is the plateau that juts out into the canyon. It was once a mine, though with falling copper prices and the pure difficulty of bringing it to the rim, it was quickly shut down. Those who started the mine wisely switched to the obvious tourism potential of the Grand Canyon instead! The remnants of one of the shacks that assisted in the operation of the tiny mine still remain, however.
The last three quarters of a mile on the trail are the least steep, leading out towards the mesa itself. Upon arrival, there will be several signs for other paths leading down to the Colorado River, and other trans-canyon trails. Follow the signs for Horseshoe Mesa and within a few minutes you will be at your destination. There is only minimal shade to be found while resting for the way up!
Find even more great hikes in Grand Canyon National Park:
Insider Hints for Grandview Trail
- Leave early to avoid descending and ascending the last section in direct sunlight.
- There is a backcountry campground at Horseshoe Mesa, offering a great place for a first backpack trip! Talk to the people at the backcountry office for more information.
Getting to the Grandview Trail Trailhead
To get to the Grandview Trailhead, from Grand Canyon Village drive along route 64 East towards Dessert View. Within 17.7 km there will be a signed turnoff for Grandview Point. Here you will find limited parking and pit toilets, however no water!Route Information for Grandview Trail
When to do:
Spring and Fall, avoid summer heat
Backcountry Campsites:
Yes, permits required
Toilets:
At trailhead
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back
Grandview Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews for Grandview Trail
We found this trail quite demanding, especially the first part. The views are just amazing and some of the best you’ll see in the South Rim.
- Trip Length
- 04:15
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Grandview is a steep and challenging half day hike, with some difficult sections but with the fantastic views, It's really worth it.
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Really nice and challenging trail in Grand Canyon. Not so much crowd. The views are stunning!
- Trip Length
- 04:00
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
A set of superb panoramic views. Challenging but beautiful and uncrowded.
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
The view from the top of the south rim brought tears to my eyes.
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Very windy trail. Lots of dust particles in the air but pretty cool views.
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Very nice trail. There were some dangerous sections so better pay attention!
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Great challenging trail. Finished 2 chicken sandwich during the hike.
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- Physical Difficulty
It's a truly wonderful hike. It gives breathtaking views of the eastern section of the park. Definitely recommended.
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Grandview Trail was an enjoyable hike, definitely glad to be an early riser to avoid the hottest part of the day.
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
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