Hikes: 'If someone could only do one short hike at the Canyon, I'd have to suggest the

• Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge (3 miles total roundtrip)
• Skeleton Point (6 miles total)
• Grandview Trail to the first overlook (about 2.5 miles roundtrip, but a much more rugged trail). (Expansive views for a short hike)

For someone doing a more ambitious trek:

• Bright Angel Trail to Plateau Point (12 miles total). The Bright Angel is less spectacular than the Kaibab in its upper reaches, but for a longer hike it has more diversity and this trek ends at a truly great overlook of the Colorado River.

For someone who is an experienced hiker and wanted a taste of the backcountry:

• Grandview to Horseshoe Mesa, (6 miles, but intense)
• Shoshone Point: 3/4 mile flat and pleasant forest stroll. It's a lovely place, and very peaceful even on the busiest summer day. Not adventurous really, but definitely off the beaten track.’
• South Kaibab Trailhead. This is a pretty steep trail with loose dirt and gravel and while it does not have much shade, it has unbeatable views on your quick descent into the canyon. Definitely allow lots of time, bring water for everyone and pack a lunch.