Really short trail with an amazing view of the canyon at the end. It's very low energy and low effort. It takes about 30 mins there and back.
Trip Snapshot
Best Time to Visit
Sunrise or sunset; Mar–May & Sep–Nov
Open
Open 24/7
Price Range
$ (free access; West Rim pass required for road)
Time Needed
15–30 minutes
Parking
Small dirt pull‑outs along Quartermaster Point Rd; free
NOT WORTH IT!!! Way overpriced at $80 per person! Cameras and phones are restricted on the bridge, if you want a picture from there you have to purchase theirs at $25. Views of the canyon are limited! Very disappointed!!!
Very short trail with stunning views. It takes ca 30 minutes
Silence, nature, wild and nothing else. 100% recommend!
Super nice view about 15/20 minutes walk from the parking lot
Why Visit Short Hike Trail
A short, unpaved spur off Quartermaster Point Road that leads to sweeping West Rim canyon views; ideal for a quick leg-stretch or sunset photo stop.
Highlights
180-degree panoramas of the Colorado River’s West Rim.
Minimal crowds compared with nearby Skywalk and Eagle Point.
Easy, family-friendly walk—no technical gear required.
Description
Short Hike Trail is an informal 0.4 mi / 0.6 km out-and-back footpath on Hualapai tribal lands, roughly 3 mi / 4.8 km south of Grand Canyon West’s main visitor complex. The gently rolling dirt track leaves Quartermaster Point Road and meanders through high-desert scrub to a rocky promontory overlooking the Colorado River’s 3,000-ft / 914 m drop. With no guardrails, services, or entry gates, the route offers a raw, uncrowded canyon experience that can be completed in 15–30 minutes. Visitors should come prepared with water, sun protection, and sturdy footwear.
History
2015
Path appears on satellite imagery and begins showing up in user-generated GPS tracks.
2021
Added as 'Short Hike Trail' on Google Maps, making it easier for self-drivers to locate.
Features
Scenic canyon overlook
Desert vegetation & wildlife viewing
Informal cairn-marked route
Note: No restrooms, water, or shade structures
Getting There
Car: From the Grand Canyon West Welcome Center, drive south on Quartermaster Point Rd (graded dirt). High-clearance vehicles recommended after rain. Look for a small pull-out and unsigned footpath on the west side of the road. Tour Shuttle: Some Hualapai guided tours include a brief stop; confirm when booking. Public Transit: None—private vehicle or tour only.
Insider Tips
Local advice to help you make the most of your visit.
01Good to know
Bring plenty of water
none is available on-site.
02Be prepared
Cell service is spotty; download offline maps before leaving the Welcome Center.
03Local tip
Watch your footing near the rim
there are sheer drop-offs with no barriers.
04Save time
Summer lightning storms develop quickly; retreat to your vehicle if thunder is heard.
05Stay connected
A polarizing filter helps cut glare for canyon photography.
Want the perfect day plan?Checkout our planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the trail suitable for young children?
Yes, the path is short and mostly level, but close supervision is essential near the unprotected rim.
Do I need a permit to hike here?
No separate hiking permit is required, but you must purchase a Grand Canyon West entrance pass to access Quartermaster Point Road.
How long does the hike take?
Most visitors spend 15–30 minutes walking to the overlook and back.
