A cluster of tall aspen protected by cliffs from wind and wildfires. along South Canyon in the Grand Canyon. This hike is Extremely Strenuous. This is one of the more remote sections of the Grand Canyon. The solitude comes at the price of a long and tough walk to the river. South Canyon area is located within the Saddle Mountain Wilderness. It offers a panoramic view of House Rock Valley with Marble Canyon, the Vermilion Cliffs, and the Kaibab Plateau as a backdrop. The trail travels along a bench of pinyon-juniper woodland, and, although it ends about one mile before reaching the edge of Marble Canyon, there is easy access to the edge. The view of the Colorado River is well worth the hike. It is also worthwhile to note that this trail is in a remote area, with limited water and high summer temperatures.
Trail #31 leaves Trail #57 about 1.0 mile from the trailhead at FR 445. Its path generally follows the contour of a bench overlooking Marble Canyon.