On day 2 of our Grand Canyon adventure, we decided to hike up Red Butte (a very prominent peak just off the highway that leads to the Grand Canyon south rim). It was a very enjoyable hike in the morning sun. The access road was good, as was the trail to the top of the butte. The butte had excellent views with a lookout on top.

Once complete with the side trip, it was off to the Grand Canyon again. We really hadn't figured out what to do on day 2. We considered hiking down into the canyon via the Bright Angel trail. However, we hadn't explored the area west of the village (Hermit's Rest). So we decided we'd take the shuttle bus out to Hermit's Rest.

On the shuttle bus ride, we looked over maps and came to the consensus that we would grab lunch at the snack bar at Hermit's Rest, then hike the 10 miles back to the South Rim Village. This turned out to be an excellent idea. The trail altered between paved and dirt, but for the most part stuck right next to the rim and offered excellent views for the entire 10 miles.

After 4 straight days of hiking (and 23 miles of hiking the last 2 days), we were tired pups when we got back to the car.

Our 2 days touring the south rim of the Grand Canyon were well spent. However, next time we plan to hike down to the Colorado River.

For Red Butte:
On Highway 64/180 watch for milepost 224. There is a big "Entering Kaibab Forest" marker about 100 yards north of the turn on the east side of Highway 64/180. FR 320 is approximately 12 miles south of Tusayan. Turn east off Highway 64/180 onto Forest Road (FR) 320. Travel east for 1.5 miles and turn left (north) onto FR 340. Travel .75 mile on this road then turn right (east) onto a spur road. The trailhead is at the end of this .25 mile road. The trailhead is well marked and has parking for several vehicles. Road is in good shape for all vehicles.

For the Rim Trail from Hermit's Rest:
Catch the shuttle bus and ride it all of the way to Hermit's Rest. This might sound easy, but the bus makes like 8 stops en route to Hermit's Rest, so it is a bit time consuming.

Hike the rim trail back to the shuttle transfer station where you got on.

For Red Butte:
From the trailhead, follow the very well-graded trail as it switchbacks to the top of Red Butte. The mileage roundtrip is right at 3 miles with 900 feet of gain.

For the Rim Trail from Hermit's Rest:
Simply follow the trail along the rim east. Signs will update you on distance to the next bus stop and total distance traveled. If you get tired on the way, you can always hop on the bus and ride it back.