Skeleton Point
Where the South Kaibab Trail first reveals the Colorado River
About
Skeleton Point sits three miles below the South Rim on the South Kaibab Trail, and it's the spot where the Colorado River comes into view for the first time on the descent. A short spur trail heading west from the main junction gives hikers that first look at the river far below, along with the Phantom Ranch area across the inner canyon.
The hike
Getting here and back is a 6-mile roundtrip with roughly 2,040 feet of elevation change, taking most hikers 4-6 hours. The National Park Service marks Skeleton Point as the recommended turnaround for a day hike on the South Kaibab — continuing past it toward the river adds another 5,000 feet of elevation change each way and is not something to attempt in a single day. Rangers advise checking conditions before you go.
- No water anywhere on the South Kaibab Trail — carry everything you'll need
- No shade along most of the route below the rim
- Reached via the South Kaibab Trailhead, which has no private vehicle parking and is served by the park's free shuttle
Best Time to Hike to Skeleton Point
The National Park Service marks Skeleton Point as the recommended turnaround for a day hike on the South Kaibab; rangers advise checking conditions before you go, regardless of season.
Trail Tips
- No water anywhere on the South Kaibab Trail — carry everything you'll need.
- No shade along most of the route below the rim.
- Continuing past Skeleton Point toward the river adds another 5,000 feet of elevation change each way and is not something to attempt in a single day.
Getting to Skeleton Point
Reached via the South Kaibab Trailhead, which has no private vehicle parking and is served by the park's free shuttle. Getting here and back is a 6-mile roundtrip with roughly 2,040 feet of elevation change, taking most hikers 4-6 hours.
What to Expect at Skeleton Point
Skeleton Point sits three miles below the South Rim on the South Kaibab Trail, and it's the spot where the Colorado River comes into view for the first time on the descent. A short spur trail heading west from the main junction gives hikers that first look at the river far below, along with the Phantom Ranch area across the inner canyon.
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