Inspire Me

Stunning Arizona’s Parks and Landscapes

In Arizona, each region has something to offer. The remote Arizona’s Strip in the far north holds canyons, plateaus and volcanoes in wilderness areas that many travellers have yet to discover.

Just south of the Strip, the Grand Canyon’s sheer size and beauty make it one of the great natural wonders of the world. You will appreciate it best if you make time for contemplation, hiking, mule riding, or river running.

South Rim Day Hikes:

Rim Trail

The Rim Trail extends from the village area to Hermits Rest. Begin from any viewpoint in the Village or along Hermit Road. The Rim Trail offers excellent walking for quiet views of the inner canyon and for visitors who desire an easy hike. No water west of Bright Angel Lodge. By using the shuttle buses, you can customize your hike to meet your needs. Part of the trail is paved and accessible.

Bright Angel Trail

(Steep) The Bright Angel Trail begins just west of Bright Angel Lodge and offers day hikes that range in distance up to 12 miles (round trip). Some shade. Seasonal water subject to pipeline breaks. Check at the Visitor Center or Backcountry Information Center for water status. Upper portion of the trail may be extremely icy in winter or early spring.

South Kaibab Trail

(Steep) The South Kaibab Trail begins south of Yaki Point on Yaki Point Road. Access to the trailhead is by shuttle bus (Kaibab Trail Route). Offers day hikes that range in distance up to 6 miles (round trip). Best views for a relatively short hike. Steep trail, no water, little shade. Water available seasonally at the trailhead. Upper portion of the trail may be extremely icy in winter or early spring.

Hermit Trail

(Steep) The Hermit Trail offers hikes to Santa Maria Spring, 5 miles (round trip), and Dripping Springs, 7 miles (round trip). Trail conditions are tougher than the Bright Angel and South Kaibab Trails. Unmaintained steep trail requires caution. Begins 500 feet west of Hermits Rest. Water from springs must be treated before drinking. For experienced desert hikers. Hiking boots recommended.

Grandview Trail

(Very Steep) The Grandview Trail offers hikes to Coconino Saddle, 2.2 miles (round trip), and Horseshoe Mesa, 6.4 miles (round trip). Trail conditions are tougher than the Bright Angel and South Kaibab Trails. Unmaintained steep trail requires caution. Begins on canyon side of retaining wall at Grandview Point on Desert View Drive (12 miles east of village). For experienced desert hikers. Hiking boots recommended.

Navajo lands begin on the east edge of the Grand Canyon and stretch across most of north-eastern Arizona, stunning region of rock and sky with such a beautiful spots such as Monument Valley and Canyon de Chelly.

Within this land you will also find the Hopi tribe, whose villages rise from the mesa tops as they have for countries.

In the picture – View from Toroweap Overlook, 3000 feet (900m) above the Colorado River with Lava Falls Rapids in back.

Moving south from Grand Canyon and Native American lands you will reach Flagstaff, a mountain town with a lively university and a strong sense of outdoors. Winter skiing, hiking, boating and fishing are all within easy rich of town. Volcanoes the region and farther east make up the roof of Arizona, with heights to 12,633 feet.

In the picture – Spider Rock, Canyon de Chelly National Monument