Getting here:
The South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park can be accessed by Amtrak Rail Pass bus service (Amtrak's Thruway Service) from Flagstaff, AZ train station. This train station is served by regular scheduled trains from Los Angeles, CA from the west, or Raton, NM from the east. From Flagstaff, AZ to Grand Canyon Village, the bus journey takes 1 hour 45 minutes on Route 180. Buses depart at 0830 hrs and 1500 hrs. The Rim Trail runs parallel to the South Loop Road which starts at the village.

Description:
A "trail" may not correctly describe it. The path is paved and well-maintained. It is not exactly off the beaten track because it runs parallel to the South Loop Road, which naturally infested with gas-guzzling cars and RVs. At least the Rim Trail come as close to the canyon's edge as it is humanly possible, with unobstructed view of the gaping ravines and lofty peaks.

That being said, the Rim Trail is a natural choice for families with kids. They can park their minivans or RVs, and get to the trail in a jiffy. It is safe, spectacular and hassle-free.

I walked from Yavapai Point to Yaki Point, estimated to be about 1-mile distance. The latter is pretty much the end of the Rim Trail (or so I think). From here, I could see the Wotan's Throne, a butte that is flat on top, thanks to million of years of erosion. The fairly popular South Kaibab Trail begins here, but I think I've seen enough. A scheduled free shuttle makes it round between Hermit's Rest and Yaki Point. I took this shuttle to return back to the village.