No matter what your level of hiking experience, there is no shortage of trails at Grand Canyon South Rim. The main thing to remember is to always take along more water than you think you will need and plenty of salty snacks! Most visitors do not take into account the effects of the 7000+ foot altitude, the dryness of the local climate, or the increasing temperatures during their descent.
For the casual walker who wants to see spectacular views of the park without strenuous climbing, there is the Rim Trail, which extends from Pipe Creek Vista in the east to Hermits Rest on the west, a fair portion of it being paved. Water is not available along the western portion of the trail and there are 2 rest areas/toilets, the first at Hopi Point, the second at Hermits Rest Gift Shop.
Next in difficulty is the popular and well-maintained Bright Angel Trail, which descends from behind Kolb Studio in the village. Day hike options include mile and a half and three mile resthouses (water at both stops, toilets at mile and a half). For the more experienced, Indian Gardens camp area (10 miles round trip, water and toilets available) and Plateau Point (directly overlooking the Colorado River, 12 miles round trip) are also possible. Hikers are highly discouraged from attempting to descend to the river and back in a day.
Another good choice is the South Kaibab Trail, which descends from Yaki Point (accesible by the Green Shuttle Route). Day hikes here include Ooh Aah Point and Cedar Ridge (rest area with toilets, no water). Those used to conditions may aim further, including Skeleton Point, The Tip-Off, or Panorama Point (overlooks Phantom Ranch and the river, roughly 10.5 miles round trip).
Hermits Trail, eight miles west of the village area, begins roughly a quarter mile west of Hermits Rest Gift Shop and Snack Bar. It is a rougher, unmaintained trail with many rocky areas. The climb out can be tricky with a lot of loose stone making footing difficult. Branches off this trail include the Waldron Trail, which climbs back to the northwest and Dripping Springs Trail (a popular day hike destination, 6 miles round trip. On the Hermit Trail itself, day hikes include Santa Maria Spring. Hermit Camp lies roughly 7 miles below the rim. There is no potable water on this trail. Water from the springs MUST be treated before usage.
If you are going into the canyon, or on any hike for that matter, you will need:
*a backpack or day pack
*water containers with a full day's supply of water
*salty snacks and/or protein bars
*suitable shoes
*a camera (optional)
Other trails in the area include South Bass, Grandview, New Hance and Tanner. These are all considered difficult trails. Any of the ranger stations within the park can provide detailed maps and information.