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    South Kaibab Trail to Tip Off

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Hard
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    5.5-7.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    14.3 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    992 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead

    The hike on South Kaibab Trail to the Tip Off is one of the best ways to enjoy the mighty Grand Canyon from the South Rim. South Kaibab Trail is the second-most visited trail in the canyon after Bright Angel Trail and there are a variety of viewpoints along the way. The Tip Off is an incredible viewpoint that can be reached in a day round trip by fit hikers. Expect moderate traffic on this route.

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    Route Description for South Kaibab Trail to Tip Off

    The South Kaibab Trail is the second-most visited trail in the entire Grand Canyon. With several viewpoints accessible without any extreme hiking, it’s a great trail to wander down to take in the grandeur of the Grand Canyon. This route is possible to complete in a day for fit hikers, but you can also opt to turn this into a backpacking trip by continuing further to Phantom Ranch on South Kaibab Trail.

    There may be mules on this trail packing out trash from Phantom Ranch. Should you come up to mules, listen to the handler’s directions on how to pass them. If you come up from behind, just announce yourself and listen for instructions on how to pass once it’s safe to do so.

    From the trailhead, you’ll hike out along the ridge. About a 0.8 km into the outbound trip, you’ll pass Yaki Point on your right, a popular viewpoint. At the point, look out over the amazing view to the east. Ahead of you is Cedar Ridge, a popular turnaround point for casual hikers. Ahead of Cedar Ridge is O’Neill Butte, from which there’s plenty of canyon to appreciate in almost all directions. Hiking around the east side of the butte, you’ll continue to Skeleton Point. This is where things get interesting.

    Descend through very steep switchbacks, arriving at the Tip Off just past the restrooms. Take a moment to take in the view here and rest up before the steep hike back to the trailhead.

    Getting to the South Kaibab Trail to Tip Off Trailhead

    The trailhead for the South Kaibab Trail to Tip Off hike is on Yaki Point Road.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      September-May

    • Pets allowed

      No

    • Family friendly

      No

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    South Kaibab Trail to Tip Off Elevation Graph

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