Weather data last updated: August 01, 2026 at 07:47 AM UTC
South Rim Trail — 63/100 Caution
Manageable with preparation. Plan accordingly.
- Weather Comfort: 13/40
- Safety Risk: 20/30
- Seasonal Match: 20/20
- Daylight Window: 10/10
Planning a hike on South Rim Trail? This 13.0-mile moderate trail in Arizona (Grand Canyon National Park) gets a fresh weather forecast and Suitability Score every day. We translate temperature, rain, wind, and daylight into practical hiking advice.
Today’s Conditions at a Glance
Desert Hiking Safety
Desert trails demand strict heat management. Plan to finish before 10 AM in summer. Carry at least 6.5 L of water (1.7 gal) for this 13.0-mile route.
- Wear sun protection: hat, sunscreen, light long sleeves
- Electrolyte replacement is essential in heat
- Watch for heat exhaustion: dizziness, cramping, confusion
Long-Distance Planning
At 13.0 miles, this is a full-day commitment. Budget 7 hours on trail including breaks. Identify a turnaround time before you start — don’t out-hike your daylight window.
- Pack calorie-dense snacks (500+ kcal beyond normal lunch)
- Trekking poles reduce knee strain on long descents
- Share your itinerary with someone not on the hike
Seasonal Guide
- Spring: Spring (Arizona): Snow may linger above 6,000 ft through May. Muddy lower sections are common. Layers essential — mornings can be near freezing.
- Summer: Summer: Start before 8 AM to beat heat and afternoon thunderstorms. Afternoon temps at 7,000 ft can still be comfortable, but exposed sections get hot quickly.
- Fall: Fall: Often the best hiking season — stable weather, fewer crowds. Shorter days mean plan turnaround times carefully after September.
- Winter: Winter: Limited daylight and potential snow/ice above 5,000 ft. Check our daily score; many trails remain accessible with traction devices.
What to Pack
- Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
- 2+ liters of water (more in heat or for long routes)
- Snacks and electrolytes
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- First-aid kit and whistle
- Fully charged phone + offline map backup
- Electrolyte tablets and sun-protective clothing
- Trekking poles and headlamp
7-Day Forecast & Hiking Suitability
| Date | High/Low | Rain | Wind | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026-07-30 | 84°F / 60°F | 8% | 9 mph | 63 | Caution |
| 2026-07-31 | 90°F / 61°F | 2% | 13 mph | 56 | Caution |
| 2026-08-01 | 93°F / 70°F | 1% | 16 mph | 30 | High Risk |
| 2026-08-02 | 92°F / 64°F | 1% | 18 mph | 40 | High Risk |
| 2026-08-03 | 92°F / 69°F | 0% | 20 mph | 40 | High Risk |
| 2026-08-04 | 92°F / 67°F | 1% | 15 mph | 56 | Caution |
| 2026-08-05 | 92°F / 67°F | 11% | 14 mph | 56 | Caution |
Trail Information
- Location: Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
- Length: 13.0 miles
- Elevation: 7000 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to hike South Rim Trail?
Review our 7-day suitability scores and seasonal match rating. Elevation and AZ climate vary significantly by month.
Is South Rim Trail safe to hike today?
Check today’s Suitability Score above. This is informational only — always confirm with official park sources before hiking.
What should I wear on South Rim Trail?
Plan layers based on forecast highs/lows and elevation. Waterproof gear if rain probability exceeds 40%.
Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. Not professional outdoor safety advice. Always check official NPS/USFS sources before hiking. Weather data by Open-Meteo. Trail data © OpenStreetMap contributors.