Colorado River ~ Lees Ferry ~ Grand Canyon
Trip Overview
Secret Beach is a moderate 1.2-mile out-and-back hike from the Paria Riffle parking area near Lees Ferry that leads to a quiet stretch of shoreline along the Colorado River within Grand Canyon National Park. The is composed of packed dirt and polished river stones, passing diving-board-like Kaibab Limestone escarpments along the way. Near the end, the hike requires mild cliff scrambling before opening onto a sandy beach that can change dramatically with water levels.
Type of Hike : Out and Back
Length: 1.2 Miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: packed dirt & gravel, mild cliff scrambling
Elevation Gain: 40 feet
Dog Friendly: Yes – Leash
Park Pass/Permit Required: Yes – National Parks or Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Pass
Directions to the Trailhead
Turn right off of Lees Ferry Road about 50 yards past the Camp Ground and go .3 miles to the Paria Riffle parking area. The trail will be just right of the pit toilet.
Secret Beach Hike Description
Secret Beach is a 1.2-mile out-and-back hike within Grand Canyon National Park that leads to a quiet stretch of shoreline along the Colorado River. The route begins at the Paria Riffle parking area near Lees Ferry and follows the river downstream, with the restrooms on your left at the start.
The first section of the hike is mostly flat and easy, traveling over packed dirt and polished river stones while passing Kaibab Limestone escarpments that overhang the river. This easy walking comes to an end once the cliffs on the hiker’s right begin to constrict. At that point, the beach becomes visible to the left. To reach it, follow a short switchback that is narrow and slightly exposed. A brief Class 4 scramble leads down into a brushy arroyo.
Beyond this point, the route continues through brush for roughly 200 yards to the water’s edge. The size and character of the beach vary significantly with river levels. At lower flows, the shoreline can extend hundreds of yards in either direction, while higher water levels reduce it to a narrow strip or a few small sandy pockets.
Fishing is common along this stretch of river, and regulations differ below the Paria River confluence. Bait is allowed here, and anglers may keep up to six trout per day. When the water is muddy, fishing is usually poor.