The Grand Canyon National Park is a bucket-list destination because of its vast size and natural beauty. For families traveling with kids, hiking offers an incredible way to experience this natural wonder up close.
The South Rim in Arizona is particularly family-friendly, with many trail options that cater to various skill levels and ages. With a bit of preparation and a sense of adventure, Grand Canyon hikes with kids can become one of your family’s most cherished memories.
Read on to discover Grand Canyon kid friendly hikes!
The Rim Trail
The Rim Trail is one of the most accessible and family-friendly trails in the Grand Canyon. It is one of the more easy Grand Canyon hikes as well. Stretching approximately 13 miles (21 km), this mostly flat and paved path is perfect for families with younger children or those using strollers. Starting near Hermit Road, the trail provides stunning views of the canyon from above, with plenty of lookouts to stop, rest, and take photos.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot mountain goats on the canyon walls below. We were able to see 3 of them perched on the side, eating. Such a cool sighting! For convenience, park near the Bright Angel Lodge, which has restrooms and a water bottle refill station at the trailhead. If parking is full, you can park at the main visitors center and hop on the free park shuttle to the trailhead.
The Rim Trail also connects with key points of interest like Yavapai Point and Mather Point. At Yavapai Point, visit the free Yavapai Geology Museum to learn about the canyon’s fascinating history and enjoy breathtaking views from its large windows. You can also spot the Colorado River from here. Mather Point is another must-see, especially at sunset when the canyon colors are glowing.
The Grand Canyon Visitor Center near Mather Point is a great stop for souvenirs, information, and the Junior Ranger Program. Kids can pick up a free activities book, complete the tasks during their hike, and return it to the friendly Grand Canyon National Park Service Rangers to be sworn in as Junior Rangers and receive a badge. It’s a fun and educational highlight for little adventurers. Definitely worth a stop at the Grand Canyon village which also has the Grand Canyon railway running through it. See if you can spot the train!
The Bright Angel Trail
For families ready to venture into the canyon, the Bright Angel Trail offers a completely different perspective. This trail takes you below the rim and provides incredible views looking up at the canyon walls. It’s a more challenging hike than the Rim Trail, with steep sections and a winding, uneven path, so it’s not suitable for strollers. For families with babies or toddlers, bring along a carrier.
The lack of railings and proximity to steep drop-offs means parents need to keep a close eye on their kids. However, the trail’s beauty makes it worth the effort. A great goal for families is the mile-and-a-half rest house, which offers restrooms and a water refill station. Reaching this point took our family about an hour and 20 minutes, with plenty of stops to marvel at the views.
Remember, heading down into the canyon is much easier than climbing back up, so pace yourself and prepare for the return journey to take double the time. For younger kids, that may mean turning back after half an hour.
Another note about this trail is that they do guided tours with mules so it’s important to remember and step to the uphill side of the trail to allow them to pass safely. The mule tours are strict about age and size, so this is recommended for older kids. My 10 year old was not heavy enough.
Snacks and water are essential, as is starting your hike early in the morning when it’s cooler and less crowded. After your hike, enjoy a well-earned picnic near the trailhead while soaking in the incredible views.
The South Kaibab Trail
For families with older kids or those seeking a more adventurous hike, the South Kaibab Trail is a fantastic option. Known for its steep and narrow sections, this trail offers panoramic, open views of the canyon that are simply unforgettable. While it’s more challenging than the Bright Angel Trail, it’s manageable with careful planning and clear communication about safety.
Parking is not allowed near the trailhead, so families must park at the main visitors center and take the free shuttle to Yaki Road, where the trail begins. Before starting, we talked to our kids about trail etiquette and safety, meaning no running, climbing, or rough play. We also emphasized the importance of staying on the marked path.
For an adventure, aim for Ooh Aah Point, a 1.8-mile round trip with jaw-dropping views. The trail can get busy, so consider starting early in the morning for a quieter experience and cooler temperatures. Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep everyone energized, and keep younger children close by at all times.
Trails we did not get to this time include hiking to Shoshone Point or Hermit’s Rest. Both look fantastic and if you have the time, definitely check it out. There is so much at the Grand Canyon for kids and adults, it’s hard to see it all!
Tips for Hiking with Kids
Visiting Grand Canyon with kids is as much about preparation as it is about the adventure. Ensure everyone is wearing comfortable, sturdy shoes with good grip, and dress in layers to accommodate the changing temperatures. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are a must, as the high elevation can make the sun feel more intense.
Pack plenty of water for each person and take advantage of refill stations at the trailheads and rest stops. Snacks are essential to keep energy levels up, especially for younger kids. Encourage them to take breaks and enjoy the scenery. I had to remind my adventurous, speedy kids that it’s not a race!
Finally, take the time to stop at educational spots like the Yavapai Geology Museum or participate in the Junior Ranger Program to make the experience even more enriching for your kids.
A Memorable Family Adventure
Hiking the Grand Canyon South Rim with kids is an unforgettable experience that combines adventure, education, and family bonding. Whether you stick to the paved Rim Trail, venture into the canyon on the Bright Angel Trail, or challenge yourselves on the South Kaibab Trail, there’s something for everyone. With a little preparation and a spirit of exploration, your family will create memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your gear, grab your map, and get ready to explore one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders!
Looking for more Grand Canyon information? Check out our 2 day itinerary and our Grand Canyon Packing List.
Sedona is only 2 hours from here and is another amazing hiking location. Check out our Sedona with Kids guide