Hike Overview
The South Kaibab Sunset Hike offers a magical opportunity to witness the Grand Canyon bathed in the golden hues of sunset. This guided hike is timed perfectly to ensure you reach one of the canyon’s prime viewing spots just as the sun dips below the horizon. The South Kaibab Trail, known for its incredible vistas, becomes even more spectacular during the sunset, with the canyon walls glowing in brilliant shades of orange, red, and purple.
Itinerary
- Start: Meet your guide at the South Kaibab Trailhead in the late afternoon, ensuring you have plenty of time to reach the sunset viewing point. The hike begins with a descent along the ridge, with breathtaking views that only get better as the sun begins to set.
- Ooh Aah Point: The first stop is Ooh Aah Point, about 1 mile from the trailhead. As the sun lowers, this spot offers fantastic views of the canyon with its colors beginning to shift. This is a popular spot to pause, take photos, and enjoy the changing light.
- Cedar Ridge: Continue down to Cedar Ridge, a broad, flat area perfect for watching the sunset. Arrive with enough time to find a comfortable spot, relax, and watch as the canyon transforms in the fading light. The views here are unparalleled, with unobstructed vistas stretching across the canyon.
- Return: After the sun has set and the sky begins to darken, start your ascent back to the trailhead. Your guide will provide headlamps for the return hike, making the journey safe and comfortable in the twilight.
What to bring
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- 1-2 liters of water
- Sunscreen (for the hike down)
- A jacket or warm layer (it can get cool after sunset)
- Camera or smartphone for capturing the sunset
- Park Entrance Fee $30/vehicle
- Guide Gratuity (10-20%)
