Biking in the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is a geological marvel that calls to all adventurers, including mountain and road bikers! The famous National Park doesn't allow mountain biking anywhere in the park, but there are a few opportunities to cycle along the rim. Always check the up-to-date accessibility information, follow the park rules, and respect the natural environment so everyone can enjoy it. And without further ado, here are ways you can see the Grand Canyon on a bike.

NPS Photo / W. Tyson Joye

Mountain biking

Rainbow Rim Trail

This 22-mile singletrack winds through dense forests and meadows along the North Rim, outside the National Park boundaries. It's the only real option if you're looking for bikeable singletrack with views into the canyon. It offers a quieter experience than the more frequented trails on the South Rim, along with breathtaking views of the canyon at sporadic overlooks interspersed along the trail. There are some technical sections to test your skills and push your limits. The trail is a great option for combining backcountry camping and mountain biking as well. 

Overall, the Rainbow Rim trail is moderate difficulty, meant for intermediate to advanced riders.

Read more on mtbproject.com.

Can you bike across the Grand Canyon?

While the long-distance Arizona Trail crosses through the Grand Canyon, mountain biking on the trail section within the National Park is not allowed. If you're bound and determined to bike the whole Arizona Trail from start to finish, or you just want to say you biked across the Grand Canyon, you'll have to hike your bike along section #38, which runs from the South Kaibab trailhead down, across, and all the way up the North Rim. Not recommended except to the extremely fit or crazy!

Road & Gravel Biking

The National Park Service allows and actually encourages biking along all paved and unpaved roads on the South Rim. E-bikes with pedal assistance are allowed as well, although riding an ebike powered only by the motor without any pedaling is not allowed in the park.

Hermit Road

The NPS calls Hermit Road "one of the best places in the park for cycling," due to the stunning views and limited traffic. For 9 months out of the year, from March 1st through November 30th, traffic is restricted to shuttle buses and tour buses along with foot traffic and cyclists. It's a 7 mile ride with 9 designated viewpoints. Cyclists can get on or off the shuttle bus at any of the viewpoints, which all have shuttle bus stops (list here). It's the red section on the map below.

Hermit Road Greenway

If you want an easy, leisurely ride with panoramic views, head to the South Rim to ride the Hermit Road Greenway. It’s a 2.5-mile paved path surrounded by beautiful vistas. Each turn provides a new angle of the canyon to soak in all the scenic wonders. Best of all, this trail is suitable for all skill levels, which means the whole family can enjoy it. You'll need to ride along Hermit Road or take a shuttle bus to get there. It's the short green section on the map above.

Visitor Center to South Kaibab Trailhead

The greenway section from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center to South Kaibab Trailhead runs along the South Rim and is a paved cycling accessible trail. From the visitor center, you can also access paved greenways to the Market Plaza, south out of the park to Tusayan, and west to Bright Angel Trailhead.

Desert View Drive

If you're looking for a long-distance road biking challenge, Desert View Drive provides up to 23 miles one-way along the South Rim. You'll enjoy gorgeous views and rolling terrain at high altitude the whole way. Viewpoints along the way include Yaki Point, Grandview Point, Moran Point, Lipan Point, and Navajo Point. This road is only for experienced road bikers, as it's open to private traffic and has narrow or nonexistent shoulders. If you want to bike this route but avoid traffic, visit the park during the offseason (watch out for snow and ice). Check this park map for more route details.

Some Tips for a Grand Adventure

Before you embark on your mountain biking journey in the Grand Canyon, you have to prepare yourself. Always check trail and weather conditions before your trip. Wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet and protective clothing. Carry plenty of food and water, especially on hot, dry days. Familiar yourself with the park’s regulations for cycling. Lastly, stay on designated trails and respect the delicate ecosystem of this landmark.

Maps source: NPS. No protection is claimed in original U.S. Government works.