Trail of Time

Trip Snapshot

Best Time to Visit

April–May & September–October; sunrise or late afternoon for cooler temps and softer light

Open

Daily, 00:00–24:00 (trail open; museum hours vary)

Price Range

$ (included with park entrance)

Time Needed

2-3 hours

Parking

Free parking at Grand Canyon Visitor Center (Lots 1‑4) & Yavapai Geology Museum

Ideal For

Paved, level path (2.83 mi / 4.56 km), interpretive panels & bronze age markers, rock sample exhibits, benches & shaded overlooks, restrooms at both trailheads, drinking fountains at Visitor Center, shuttle bus stops nearby, wheelchair & stroller friendly

Reviews from Google

4.9

(80 reviews)

Write a review

Amy Middleton2 years ago

The Grand Canyon South Rim walk is an unforgettable experience, offering some of the most breathtaking views you'll ever see. The well-maintained paths provide easy access to various vantage points, allowing you to take in the vast, majestic beauty of the canyon from multiple perspectives.The walk itself is relatively easy, making it accessible for people of all ages and fitness levels. Along the way, you'll find informative signs and exhibits that provide fascinating details about the geology, history, and wildlife of the area. There are also plenty of spots to rest and take photos, ensuring you can enjoy the scenery at your own pace.Whether you're an avid hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll with stunning views, the South Rim walk of the Grand Canyon is a must-do. The sheer scale and beauty of the canyon are awe-inspiring, and it's an experience that will stay with you long after you leave.

Michael Snyder1 year ago

Beautiful views and exhibits about canyon geology. Exhibits and displays every few hundred meters can break up the walk.

Hazel O2 years ago

The Western Rim Trail was amazing. Tim was extremely knowledgeable and informative which made it a truly enjoyable experience. The weather was perfect for exceptional views and being December, no crowds! I highly recommend Tim for an unforgettable adventure.

Bill Cleveland3 years ago

Trail of Time on the Grand Canyon South Rim takes you through 2 billion years of geological history in something less than a mile. Medallions mark varying time periods, with time intervals getting longer further back in history. Smaller markers in between have a penny, dime, or other coin. The signage provides nice information that connects with the landscape in view. Especially nice are the sample rock samples with polished faces. The trail is wheelchair accessible and paved the entire way. Sometimes the trail has a parallel trail getting walkers closer to the edge of the rim. At points, the trail has overlooks with safety rails while many locations count on common sense to not tumble over the edge. Plenty of people have dogs on the trail. Didn’t see many bikers and can imagine it would be hard to ride the trail with big crowds. Trail mostly level.

Viktor Pustelnik3 years ago

The Grand Canyon is so beautiful but it's as well the biggest thing I ever saw. It's so big!. And I recommend to go at the view point when it's sunset or sunrise it's so amazing and the photos is very beautiful. If it's many people on a view point you can go to some other nice view point around the canyon and you probably find one you like because it's so many of them. I definitely recommend👍😀

Why Visit Trail of Time

The Trail of Time is a 2.83‑mile paved interpretive walk along the South Rim that uses bronze markers and rock exhibits to illustrate 2 billion years of Grand Canyon geology.

Highlights

Walk one meter for every million years of Earth’s history.

Touch rock samples spanning 1.8 billion years.

Spectacular canyon vistas from a level, stroller‑ and wheelchair‑friendly path.

Description

Created in 2010, the Trail of Time transforms a section of the Rim Trail into an outdoor geology museum. Starting at Yavapai Geology Museum and ending near Grand Canyon Village, the route features 2,500 bronze time markers, interpretive panels, and more than 60 in‑situ rock specimens. Visitors gain a tangible sense of deep time while enjoying continuous canyon panoramas. The walk is mostly level, paved, and signed in both directions, making it suitable for families, wheelchairs, and strollers.

History

2002

Concept for an outdoor geology timeline approved by Grand Canyon National Park.

2005

Installation of the first rock exhibits and bronze markers begins.

2010

Official opening of the Trail of Time as part of the park’s centennial geology program.

2012

Trail receives the National Association for Interpretation’s Media Award.

2022

Grand Canyon Conservancy repairs asphalt and reinstalls ~100 of the 2,500 markers.

Features

Paved, level path (2.83 mi / 4.56 km)

Interpretive panels & bronze age markers

Rock sample exhibits

Benches & shaded overlooks

Restrooms at both trailheads

Drinking fountains at Visitor Center

Shuttle bus stops nearby

Wheelchair & stroller friendly

Getting There

This self‑guided walk can be started from either end, but most visitors begin at Yavapai Geology Museum and follow the timeline west toward Grand Canyon Village.

Insider Tips

Local advice to help you make the most of your visit.

01Good to know

Start early to avoid mid‑day heat.

02Be prepared

Bring at least 1 liter of water per person; there is little shade.

03Local tip

Wear sunscreen and a hat; elevation is ~7,000 ft.

04Save time

Use the shuttle for a one‑way walk to save time.

05Stay connected

Download the free NPS Trail of Time audio tour for added context.

Want the perfect day plan?Checkout our planning guides.

View Planning Guides

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to walk the Trail of Time?

Is the trail suitable for wheelchairs and strollers?

Can I bring my dog?

Do I need a permit or ticket?

Where can I find restrooms?

Is the trail open in winter?

Can I walk both directions?

Are ranger‑led tours offered?

Quick Information

HoursDaily, 00:00–24:00 (trail open; museum hours vary)

Best Time to VisitApril–May & September–October; sunrise or late afternoon for cooler temps and softer light

Recommended Duration2-3 hours

ParkingFree parking at Grand Canyon Visitor Center (Lots 1‑4) & Yavapai Geology Museum

FacilitiesPaved, level path (2.83 mi / 4.56 km), interpretive panels & bronze age markers, rock sample exhibits, benches & shaded overlooks, restrooms at both trailheads, drinking fountains at Visitor Center, shuttle bus stops nearby, wheelchair & stroller friendly

What to BringWater, sunscreen, hat

What to WearComfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking

Get Directions

Drive Now Walk Now

View Story

Contact Information

Rim Trail, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023, USA

References

National Park Service – “Trail of Time” https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/the-trail-of-time.htm Grand Canyon Conservancy – “Trail of Time Upgrades” https://www.grandcanyon.org/protect-grand-canyon/projects/trail-of-time Google Maps listing “Trail of Time” (accessed 10 Jun 2025)TripAdvisor – “Trail of Time” reviews https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g143028-d8130709-Reviews-The_Trail_of_Time-Grand_Canyon_National_Park_Arizona.html

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