4.7
(9386)
12,773
runners
Rim Trail
04:08
34.1km
530m
Running
Jog the challenging 21.2-mile Rim Trail in Grand Canyon National Park, offering spectacular views and 1739 feet of elevation gain.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Grand Canyon National Park
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
121 m
Grand Canyon Visitor Center
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
507 m
Mather Point Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
If you hike to the right, you will get to South Kaibab Trailhead. Take the shuttle (orange route) back to the visitors center.
Tip by
1.56 km
Yavapai Point
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
7.79 km
Powell Point
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
17.6 km
Hermit's Rest
Highlight • Monument
There are restrooms, drinking fountains and a gift shop that also sells maps of the area at Hermits Rest.
Tip by
33.1 km
Village Greenway
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
The greenway is well-connected with the shuttle service, so it is easy to hop on a shuttle to get you back to where you started.
Tip by
34.1 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
23.0 km
6.24 km
4.67 km
216 m
Surfaces
15.8 km
9.83 km
4.46 km
2.12 km
1.92 km
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Elevation
Highest point (2,170 m)
Lowest point (2,020 m)
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Weather
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Today
Monday 18 May
17°C
2°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the terrain like for jogging on the Rim Trail?
Much of this trail is paved and relatively flat, making for an easy run. However, west of Bright Angel Lodge, the path narrows and climbs. A section between Powell Point and Monument Creek Vista is a three-foot-wide dirt trail. In winter, surfaces can be slippery due to ice or snow, and summer brings risks of lightning and extreme heat.
What are the best times of year to jog this route?
Spring and fall offer the most pleasant conditions for jogging. Summer can be extremely hot with a risk of thunderstorms, while winter may bring slippery conditions due to ice and snow. Always check the weather forecast before you go.
Are dogs allowed on the Rim Trail?
Yes, pets are allowed on this trail, which is uncommon for such a long route in a national park. Please ensure your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them.
What kind of views and landmarks can I expect along the way?
You'll experience spectacular, family-friendly views of the Grand Canyon. Notable viewpoints include Mather Point Viewpoint, Yavapai Point, and Powell Point. The Trail of Time, a 1.3-mile section, offers interpretive features and samples of ancient rock layers. The route also passes by Hermit's Rest.
Where can I access the trail and what are the parking options?
The trail stretches from the South Kaibab Trail west to Hermit's Rest. Parking is available at various points along the South Rim, including near the Grand Canyon Visitor Center. The Grand Canyon shuttle bus system provides convenient access to many sections of the trail, allowing you to customize your jogging distance.
Are there any entrance fees or permits required for this trail?
The Rim Trail is located within Grand Canyon National Park, so standard park entrance fees apply. You can purchase a pass at the park entrance. No additional permits are typically required for day jogging on this trail.
Is water available along the route?
Water is available in the Grand Canyon Village area and at Hermit's Rest. However, there are no direct water sources along the trail itself, so it's crucial to carry enough water, especially during warmer months.
What wildlife might I see while jogging?
While jogging, you might spot various wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and deer. Keep an eye out for wildflowers during the appropriate seasons. Remember to maintain a safe distance and never feed the animals.
Does this trail connect with other paths?
Yes, the route primarily follows the Rim Trail, but it also passes through sections of the Village Greenway, Grand Canyon Village Greenway, Hermit Road Greenway Trail, and Bright Angel Trail.
Is the Rim Trail suitable for families or those with limited mobility?
Many sections of the trail are paved and wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for families and individuals with limited mobility. However, some parts, particularly west of Bright Angel Lodge, become narrower and more challenging.
Are there places to eat or rest near the trail?
Yes, the Grand Canyon Village area offers various amenities, including restaurants, cafes, and restrooms. Grand Canyon Visitor Center and Hermit's Rest also provide facilities.