South Kaibab Trailhead Parking (Grand Canyon South Rim)
Do not drive to the South Kaibab Trailhead. Private automobiles are not allowed there. Park at the Backcountry Information Center Lot D and take the Hiker Express, or park at the Visitor Center and take the Orange Kaibab Rim shuttle. The trail has no water, so the shuttle plan and water plan belong in the same morning checklist.
The facts
- Trail served
- South Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge, Skeleton Point, Tipoff and Bright Angel Campground
- Cost / pass
- Grand Canyon National Park entrance pass; shuttle is included with park access
- Lot size
- No parking at the trailhead; use designated Visitor Center or Lot D parking
- When it fills
- South Rim visitor lots fill during busy periods; Lot D often has space when the village is congested
- Overflow option
- Backcountry Information Center Lot D or Grand Canyon Visitor Center parking
- Tow / citation risk
- Do not drive beyond the signed shuttle access; use the designated lots and shuttle stops
- Restrooms
- Restrooms at the Visitor Center, Lot D area and trailhead facilities; no water on the South Kaibab Trail
- Road to the lot
- South Rim roads to the Visitor Center or Backcountry Information Center; final access is shuttle-only
- Busy season
- Year-round trail access subject to conditions; spring, fall and holidays are busy
Getting there
South Kaibab Trailhead, Grand Canyon National Park, AZ 86023
Get directions →The trailhead is shuttle-only
The NPS South Kaibab trail guide states that parking is not permitted at the trailhead. The Orange Kaibab Rim Route runs from the Visitor Center to South Kaibab and Yaki Point, while the early-morning Hiker Express connects from the Backcountry Information Center and Bright Angel Lodge.
Choose the lot before the bus
Lot D is the useful base for hikers who are also returning via Bright Angel. The Visitor Center works for the Orange Route and has more visitor services. Either way, park once and board the correct shuttle; do not follow a map pin toward the trailhead in a private car.
Pack water before leaving the rim
The South Kaibab Trail has no water source. The NPS recommends using it primarily as a descent and returning by a route with a water plan. Parking at the correct lot will not help if the last shuttle and water decisions are left until the trailhead.
Frequently asked questions
Can I park at the South Kaibab Trailhead?
No. Private automobiles are not allowed at the South Kaibab Trailhead. Park at the Visitor Center or Backcountry Information Center Lot D and take the Orange Kaibab Rim shuttle or Hiker Express.
Where does the South Kaibab shuttle leave from?
The Orange Kaibab Rim Route leaves from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center. The Hiker Express provides early-morning service from the Backcountry Information Center, Bright Angel Lodge and Yavapai Lodge on its current schedule.
Is there water on the South Kaibab Trail?
No. Carry the water you need from the rim and check current NPS conditions before starting.
Can I park at Lot D for a South Kaibab and Bright Angel loop?
Yes. Lot D is near the Backcountry Information Center and connects to the Hiker Express for South Kaibab; Bright Angel is a short walk or Village Route shuttle ride away.
Facts on this page last verified August 2, 2026. Fees, hours, and access rules change seasonally — confirm with the official source before a long drive.