Pros & cons
PROS
- Panoramic below-the-rim views for a short hike
- Glorious sunrise and sunset light for photos
CONS
- Steep uphill return with little shade
- No water available on the trail
Overview
Ooh Aah Point is the first big payoff on the South Kaibab Trail: a dramatic, below‑the‑rim perch with sweeping, unobstructed views that live up to the name. It’s about 1.8 miles round trip from the trailhead with roughly 600–790 feet of elevation loss, so the return is a stout climb.
The Hike
Expect a short but steep, well‑traveled descent with switchbacks and some loose gravel. Most hikers take 1–2 hours round trip, depending on breaks and photo stops. There’s little to no shade and no water along the South Kaibab Trail, so plan accordingly, especially in summer when heat is intense.
What You’ll See
From this ridge‑top vantage, you get a huge 180‑degree panorama of layered limestone, sandstone, and shale—classic Grand Canyon geology on full display. Being below the rim makes everything feel closer and more immersive than the roadside overlooks.
Wildlife
Common sightings include rock squirrels, ravens, lizards, and mule deer. Keep an eye out for birds of prey—and be mindful that snakes are possible along this stretch of trail.
Logistics & Services
There are no facilities at Ooh Aah Point. Restrooms are at the South Kaibab Trailhead (vault toilets) and there’s no water at the trailhead or on the trail. Private vehicles typically can’t park at the trailhead; use the free park shuttle from the Visitor Center area or park at a designated lot and ride.
Best Time to Visit
Go early. Sunrise to mid‑morning offers cooler temps, softer light, and lighter crowds. Late afternoon into sunset is also stellar for photography. Midday, weekends, and holidays are the busiest and hottest—avoid summer afternoons if you can.
Know Before You Go
- Bring plenty of water (at least 2 liters per person in warm weather), sun protection, and sturdy footwear.
- The trail can be icy or muddy in winter and spring—traction helps after storms.
- Crowds gather at the viewpoint; a few extra minutes can earn you a quieter spot nearby.
Where it is
36.0615, -112.0869Tips for Ooh Aah Point
- 01Park at the Visitor Center and take the free shuttle to South Kaibab Trailhead.
- 02Start at sunrise to beat heat and crowds; the return is all uphill.
- 03Carry at least 2 liters of water per person—there’s no water on the trail.
- 04Expect loose gravel, stairs, and mule traffic; wear sturdy shoes.
- 05In winter and early spring, check for ice and consider traction devices.
Amenities
Near Ooh Aah Point
All places →All trails →
0.2 mi awayCedar RidgeMid-canyon perch with huge views and a convenient toilet stopRestroom · Scenic Viewpoint
0.2 mi awayYaki PointQuiet shuttle-only overlook with big views of South Kaibab countryRestroom · Picnic Table
0.7 mi awayO'Neill ButtePhotogenic butte anchoring the South Kaibab hike with sweeping viewsScenic Viewpoint
0.8 mi awaySouth Kaibab TrailheadShuttle-only gateway to the canyon’s most panoramic ridge descentTrailhead · Restroom
1 mi awayPipe Creek Vista to Bright Angel Lodge (Rim Trail)Easy rim walk with nonstop views and flexible shuttle logisticsEasy · 3.2 mi · 1.8 hr
1.8 mi awayTrail of TimeWalk a billion years with big canyon views—paved, easy, fascinatingEasy · 2.8 mi · 1.5 hr
2.1 mi awayShoshone Point TrailEasy forest stroll to a quiet, sweeping South Rim promontoryEasy · 2 mi · 1 hr
2.3 mi awayRim TrailEffortless South Rim stroll with nonstop Grand Canyon views.Easy · 13 mi · 6 hr
