Increased Elevation at Point 'Ooh Ahh'
Exploring the South Kaibab Trail: A Scenic Hike into the Grand Canyon
The South Kaibab Trail, located on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, offers a unique and picturesque hiking experience for both beginners and seasoned hikers alike. The trailhead, which serves as the starting point for the Ooh Ahh Point hike, can be found at GPS coordinates approximately 36.05335° N, 112.08344° W.
Access to the South Kaibab Trailhead is via a shuttle service from Grand Canyon Village, near the intersection of US 180 and AZ 64. Private vehicles are not permitted at the trailhead.
Ooh Ahh Point, a popular destination along the trail, is about 1.8 miles down the South Kaibab Trail. This short hike promises stunning canyon views that make it a favourite among day hikers.
The trail itself has a standard gradient of 10% and a width of 4 feet, making it manageable despite its toughness. However, it's important to note that the hike back up from Ooh Ahh Point is typically done at about half the speed that one goes down.
The South Kaibab Trail is a corridor trail, heavily used and actively maintained, and is the second most popular trail after the Bright Angel Trail. Mules are present on the trail, primarily used for supply and trash hauling for Phantom Ranch. There are fewer mules here compared to the Bright Angel Trail.
While mules on the South Kaibab Trail are not aggressive, it's best to keep your hands to yourself and avoid trying to pet or feed them. Passing mules requires standing to the side of the trail and following the mule handler's instructions.
The weather in the Grand Canyon can be extreme, with winter bringing bitter cold, ice, and snow. In snowy conditions, micro-spikes and trekking poles are necessary for the South Kaibab Trail.
For hikers, the Hiker's Express Shuttle Bus is geared toward their needs and can be used by anyone. The Orange Shuttle Bus can be taken from several parking lots around Grand Canyon Village, including the Visitor's Center.
The trail is appropriate for beginners, but hiking or fitness clothing and footwear are recommended. When hiking to Ooh Ahh Point at sunrise, it's possible to avoid encountering mules in either direction.
Remember, there is no water available on the trail, so bring at least 1L of water. With these tips in mind, you're ready to embark on an unforgettable journey down the South Kaibab Trail.
[1] - Access to the South Kaibab Trailhead: https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/shuttle-bus.htm [2] - Ooh Ahh Point Distance: https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/ooh-ahh-point.htm [3] - South Kaibab Trailhead GPS Coordinates: https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/trails.htm [4] - South Kaibab Trail Overview: https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/south-kaibab-trail.htm
- After reaching the South Kaibab Trailhead via the shuttle service from Grand Canyon Village, you'll find the trailhead at GPS coordinates approximately 36.05335° N, 112.08344° W.
- The South Kaibab Trail leads to Ooh Ahh Point, a popular destination about 1.8 miles down the trail, where breathtaking canyon views await.
- Proper hiking gear, such as hiking or fitness clothing and footwear, is recommended for the South Kaibab Trail, especially when hiking in snowy conditions, where micro-spikes and trekking poles might be necessary.
- For a unique outdoor-living experience, consider embarking on a sunrise hike to Ooh Ahh Point on the South Kaibab Trail to avoid encounters with mules and enjoy a serene, unforgettable journey.
