Are you traveling to America’s Grand Canyon soon? If you’re hoping to take in the best views of this natural wonder, you should know that there are many different viewpoints from which to choose. Indeed, there are numerous viewpoints just along the South Rim alone and it’s difficult to determine which ones to visit. Thus, in order to assist you in organizing your itinerary, we now present the 15 best Grand Canyon viewpoints on the South Rim.

The 15 Best Grand Canyon Viewpoints on the South Rim

The Hermit Road Viewpoints via the Red Route Shuttle

1. The Hermit’s Rest Point

The edge of this famous Arizona canyon at this specific overlook is generally densely forested. Thus, the view can be a wee bit obstructed. On the other hand, this rest point includes not only restrooms, but also a café, and even a gift shop.

The nigh-famous structure was constructed in 1914. The trail itself runs from the rest point to the mighty Colorado River. The rest point was named after the lone Canadian prospector named Louis Boucher.  

Boucher reportedly carved this trail into the famous canyon and built his home in the nearby town of Dripping Springs. This rest point is the westernmost spot on the southern rim and is easily accessible by vehicle. It’s just a few feet from the rim.

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Pima Point

Pima Point provides a pretty panoramic vista that runs 40 miles along the South Rim’s northernmost corner. Visitors’ views include Hermit Creek’s red canyons and the green, verdant vegetation near Hermit Creek’s lower end. Interestingly, the creek’s water flows all year long.

Veteran visitors say that “the eastern view from” here is exceptional as it includes The Alligator, the Granite Rapids, and Monument Creek. It is just 1.5 miles away from Hermit’s Rest too so hikers can easily check out the views from both of these viewpoints on the same day. Plus, as previously mentioned, Hermit’s Rest has restrooms and more.

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The Abyss

No, this Grand Canyon viewpoint was not named after the 1989 sci-fi film of the same name. Those in the know confirm this place to be unique. While most of the other spots generally thrust out into the Grand Canyon, the Abyss is actually a significantly steep notch in this striking canyon.

There’s a vertical drop of 3,000 feet down to the rugged Redwall formation. You can take the popular Hermit Road Shuttle which stops at nine different places along the hiking trail. In fact, the Abyss is one of the stopping points. 

You may wish to take your own vehicle there if you visit during the off-season. This deep drop provides people with impressive views of the Tonto Plateau, Granite Rapids, and Colorado River. You can also see The Monument and Monument Creek.

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Mohave Point

This Grand Canyon viewpoint will give you great views of Pima Point, and The Abyss. Indeed, those who look to the West should also be able to spot Cocopa, Havasupai, and Yuma Points as well. Those who look down from this viewing area should see Granite Rapids and Boucher Rapids too.

Mind you, some say that the previously mentioned Abyss and the surrounding 3,000-foot towering cliffs steal the show here. If you like to avoid crowds, then you have another reason for visiting Mohave Point. This is one of the viewpoints that is generally less visited and there are a number of lookout points that help to further disperse those travelers who do take the trek here. It can actually be a very peaceful place.

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Hopi Point 

Some travel writers claim Hopi Point is the best Grand Canyon viewpoint. This viewpoint is the southern rim’s northernmost spot. It features a fenced-in viewing area and the impressive vista upon Dana Butte over the canyon.

On one side of this viewing area, you will find Salt Creek. The creek empties into the Colorado River and results in rather impressive rapids. On the other side of this lookout is well-known Monument Creek which eventually empties into the Colorado River and results in the great Granite Rapids. Hopi Point offers visitors some memorable unobstructed views and is said by some travel journalists to be the best place on the rim to see some truly awe-spiring, impressive sunsets as well.

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Powell Point

Popular Powell Point is found on West Rim Drive and is a notably narrow spur. Here you will be able to see a striking memorial to a pair of historic explorations of the famous Colorado River conducted by American geologist and explorer John Wesley Powell. This viewpoint is maybe a 10-minute hike beyond the well-known Orphan Mine. So if you’re going to the mine, you can visit here as well.

For travelers who prefer not to wait for tour buses, this short walk will allow you to stretch your legs and also check out the attractive pine woods along the way. It is important to remember though that the previously-mentioned Hopi Point blocks some views here at Powell Point. Plus the Colorado River runs through a granite gouge so it is also obstructed from visitors’ views here. On the plus side, it is another great place to see the sunset and avoid large groups of tourists.  

Grand Canyon Village Viewpoints via the Blue and Orange Route Shuttle 

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Yavapai Point 

If you’re already stopping at Mather Point, Yavapai Point is a nice, easy walk from there. If you prefer to do the road trip thing, you should note that Mather Point offers easily accessible parking. In fact, vehicles that are more than 22 feet in length are not allowed at the surprisingly little parking lot near this viewpoint.

While there, be sure to wander over to the nearby Yavapai Observation Station too. It’s a modest little visitor center complete with numerous books and additional geographical info concerning the Grand Canyon. Those in the know claim that out of the trio of areas that make up the Grand Canyon’s southern rim, Yavapai Point provides people with the most memorable panoramic views.  

It is believed that this is due to the fact that it is the northernmost point and is also closest to the Colorado River. Hikers should note that the hike here will probably take twice as long to get back as it does to reach this viewpoint because of the inclines. This is especially important if you are going to be hiking later that day.

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Mather Point

Mather Point is reported to be “the most popular” viewpoint on the South Rim. This is due in part to how accessible it is. In fact, it is the viewpoint that is closest to the parking lot and entrance station and not far from the visitor’s center either.

Mather Point offers travelers extensive, impressive views. It features a pair of railed overlooks that are a bit narrow yet they are situated on huge, projecting rocks providing memorable views to the west. From there you can see the famous Bright Angel Trail and Pipe Creek. You should also be able to see a section of the Tonto Trail too. There is available parking close to this viewpoint.

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Ooh Aah Point

Ooh Aah Point is a highlight of the heavily traveled South Kaibab Trail. This beautiful hiking trail is only 1.8 miles. Before reaching this outstanding outlook you will discover that this is a great place for year-round birdwatching and other wildlife viewings as well. Naturally, once you actually do get to the Ooh Aah viewpoint, you will be amazed at the perfect panoramic views of the outstanding eastern area of the canyon.

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Yaki Point

You will find Yaki Point at the easternmost part of the Kaibab Trail. It used to be accessible to personal vehicles. Unfortunately, for those who prefer driving to hiking, the parking lot eventually became inadequate to handle the amount of regular traffic it was receiving.

Now if you want to drive your own vehicle there you will probably have to park along the nearby streets close to the picnic areas and hoof it the rest of the way. Still, the views of Clear Creek and Cremation Creek make your walk in well worth it. The views here are distinct in that this viewpoint provides the best view of the South Kaibab Trail and encompasses the western vista.  

The Desert View Road Viewpoints via your own vehicle 

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Desert View Point 

The aptly named Desert View Point is found on Desert View Road. It’s said to be the most popular viewpoint along this road too. If you are driving from the East Entrance, this is the first stop.

Desert View Point is popular with travelers for a couple of reasons. It’s the first place you can stop and see the stunning Grand Canyon, plus you can also check out the Colorado River and the Desert View Watchtower. This tourist attraction is an interesting tower that was designed by American architect Mary Colter.  

It was designed and built in 1932. Made from stone, it is similar in style to the ancient Pueblo towers. You must climb a flight of 85 steps in order to reach the observation deck.

There you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views. This olden tower stands almost 70 feet high and can get crowded. You will also find a campground, a gas station, a restaurant, and even a shop here too.

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Navajo Point

You’ll find this viewpoint right down the road from Desert View Point. It’s possible to park right next to the canyon’s rim. It’s a quieter place because it’s as popular with tourists.

Some say it may be less popular because it offers visitors views much like those at Desert Point. From here you can see the popular Desert View Watchtower from a distance and even have a picnic lunch. It’s 7,498 feet high which means it’s the South Rim’s highest point.   

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Papago Point

If you’re looking for amazing views and don’t mind putting in some effort, Papago Point is the best place to see the Colorado River and unsurprisingly attracts few tourists. The trail here is quite narrow and there are steep drops on either side of it. Papago’s less than one mile from the road and you’ll have to park on the shoulder. If this all sounds a tad too adventurous for you, fret not. Shoshone Point is more easily accessible.

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Grandview Point

The south rim’s southernmost point is Grandview Point. The actual official viewpoint here is a wee bit obstructed by some trees. Nevertheless, if you walk a bit on the Grandview Trail you will be able to enjoy totally unobstructed views that others have referred to as “amazing.” This was the first spot developed for tourism. The Grandview Hotel was erected in 1908. Grandview Point is the south rim’s second-highest point with a height of 7,400 feet.

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Shoshone Point

Some say this spot off Desert View Road is one of the Grand Canyon’s best-kept secrets. You need to drive a good mile down an unpaved road and then hike roughly half an hour to reach this viewpoint. The hike is an easy one though it just takes time. 

Mind you, if you’re not careful going there, you might miss it. Tech-loving travelers suggest putting on Google Maps prior to heading out. You park your vehicle in the clear dirt area there.

Check online or in your local paper and plan to arrive there before sunset. You may find you have the place all to yourself. The views are reportedly amazing and you can sit and watch as the sky turns colors as the sun slowly sets.  

See the best viewpoints via shuttle or personal vehicle

There are a number of shuttles visitors can use in the Grand Canyon. They run roughly every half hour. Check the shuttle schedules online.  

There are three different routes. In the summer you have to take the shuttle to visit some viewpoints. If you really would rather drive your own vehicle, the best place to do it is in the easternmost section of the canyon.

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If you’re in good shape and you’re going to visit America’s Grand Canyon in the state of Arizona, you should seriously consider hiking there. The scenic hiking trails there are the best way to truly experience this natural wonder. To help you determine which trails to hike, here are the 12 best hiking trails at the Grand Canyon.

The 12 Best Hiking Trails at the Grand Canyon

1. The South Rim Trail

The well-known South Rim Trail is where many visitors first see the world-famous Grand Canyon. It is a paved, 13-mile route with a comparatively minimal elevation change. Mind you, you do not have to hike the entire 13 miles.

On this route, there are shuttle stops, joining scenic viewpoints with such park facilities as the informative Grand Canyon Visitor Center. Enjoy the views from such lookouts as Powell Point and Mather Point as you make your way along the popular South Rim Trail. Veteran visitors confirm that Yavapai Point is one of the best places to see the sunset. The viewpoints can be crowded during the summer months so get there early.

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The Bright Angel Trail

The popular Bright Angel Trail is arguably one of the most iconic hiking trails in the USA. The trail steeply descends from the popular South Rim, and soon reveals incredible views that can’t be seen from the rim itself. Within nine miles the trail descends more than 4,000 feet via seemingly endless switchbacks, from the rim to the rushing Colorado River.

It can, however, be dangerous for novices. Even though this hiking trail has had available water stations along the trail for a number of years, as many as 250 travelers are still rescued from the Grand Canyon every single year. Some inexperienced hikers try to complete the entire trail in a single day. Plan on making it a two-day hike and that will help avoid many issues.

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The South Kaibab Trail

This trail drops almost 5,000 feet within seven miles between the well-known South Rim and the river. There are no water sources and little shade. Still, despite the challenges, the rock formations and views are stunning.

If you are interested in day hikes, consider the following turnaround points: Ooh-Aah-Point is only one mile down, Cedar Ridge is 1.5 miles, and Skeleton Point, is three miles and includes views of the river. This trail is also a trailhead for those who are going to backpack into the canyon. Many backpackers prefer the quick elevation hiking downhill.

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Bright Angel Point Trail

Hiking the Bright Angel Point is now considered “a standard excursion” when one visits the North Rim. Here you will discover an easily accessible half-mile hiking trail that will lead you to what some say are the “best views of the canyon.” You begin the hike at the North Rim’s Visitor Center and Lodge.

It really is an exceptional introductory trail to complete upon arrival. You will find interpretive information both at the visitor center and along the way. Remember though, since this is the North Rim’s main outlook you will not be alone on this little hike so get there early.

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The North Kaibab Trail

This is the one and only officially maintained hiking trail that enters the Grand Canyon from the North Rim. Just like the Bright Angel and South Kaibab Trails, this trail has steep switchbacks the entire way down to the river. If you’d rather do a day hike rather than the rather demanding 14 miles down and back up again, use one of the numerous turnaround points on the trail.

At about five miles, you can turn back at Roaring Springs, the source of the park’s drinking water. Potable water is only available seasonally a healthy half-mile after at the Manzanita Rest Area, and 1.4 miles later, you can camp at the Cottonwood Campground, but you’ll need a permit. On the plus side, this trail is less crowded than its various southern counterparts, if you enjoy solitude.

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The Havasu Falls Hike

The Havasu Falls Hike is one of the country’s most well-known waterfall hikes. It’s important to remember that this trail is situated on the Havasupai Indian Reservation. Permits are required and they are not that easy to get.  

Many people have hiking this trail on their bucket list not only to see the wonderful waterfall but also because of the surrounding scenery. The hike is considered moderately strenuous and covers at least 10 miles as well. Regular readers may already know that day hiking to the falls is not permitted. In order to see the falls, you must either do some backpacking and spend the night or choose to do some mule riding.

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The Grandview Trail

This enjoyable hiking trail was actually created by old copper miners and their trusty mules. If you’re hoping to avoid the crowds often found on the nearby South Kaibab and Bright Angel Trails, then this South Rim hiking trail fits the bill. This admittedly steep route is also a fine backpacking trail and it’s easier to get a permit for this one too.

Atop Horseshoe Mesa you will find historical mining remains and popular places to camp should you wish to do more than go day hiking. Horseshoe Mesa is also a great place to turn around if you’re just day hiking. The hike is less than six miles and the elevation is under 3,000 feet.

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The Widforss Trail

You’ll discover this scenic hiking trail on the North Rim. It’s named for the 20th-century artist, Gunnar Widforss, who was well-known for his paintings of the Grand Canyon. For two miles it follows the North Rim and provides pretty panoramas of the canyon’s quieter side. It continues on through a shaded forest still showing some signs of past forest fires there. Following mile five, you emerge from the forest to enjoy additional attractive views at popular Widforss Point.

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The Cape Final Trail

Try hiking the Cape Final Trail on the North Rim. This family-friendly, four-mile hike features memorable views, moderate elevation change, a generally level trail, and quite often no real crowds. This trail winds through the verdant forest and along the edge of the canyon, eventually leading you to the Cape Final viewpoint where you will enjoy stunning views. From this popular precipice, your peepers can peruse plenty of prominent features of the gorgeous Grand Canyon such as the canyon’s eastern edge and the Vishnu Temple.

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The Hermit Trail

If you’re looking for a good alternative to rim-to-river-hiking trails on the bustling South Rim, the Hermit Trail, on the western edge of the park, is for you. It offers what some call a “more solitary” experience. In the first two and a half miles, the trail actually drops a total of 2,000 feet.

The drop does make the hike back up a little challenging. Indeed, some experts say only experienced desert hikers should attempt this hike. During the park’s early years, it was actually the official main thoroughfare into the canyon.

Today, much of the foot traffic is the result of day hikers because there are only a few campsites available. Santa Maria Springs, 2.5 miles below the rim, is a good turnaround point. Water’s available here but it must be treated. 

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The Rim-to-Rim Trail

Regular readers know your rovin’ writer hiked the Grand Canyon rim-to-rim with his father and a small group of scouts over two days. However, if you want to hike it in one day, consider this trail. This trail is 24 miles in length between the North and the South Rims.

Expect an elevation gain of over 4,500 feet and be aware that you should only attempt to hike this in one day if you are an experienced, healthy, long-distance hiker. It’s also important to note that you need to hit the trail before daybreak. If you prefer, you can take a shuttle ride back to the starting point (from May to October). If you’re interested in this challenging adventure, be sure to contact the people at the Backcountry Information Center for additional information.  

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The Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim Trail

If you’re really hardcore, this is arguably the Grand Canyon’s ultimate adventure hike. The route is generally the same as the previous hike, but rather than wait for the shuttle or call Uber, you basically turn around and do the 24-mile hike once more. As previously noted, rim-to-rim hikes can be completed in two or more days if you obtain a backcountry permit. 

In fact, if you carry your own gear, the popular Bright Angel Campground is nestled in the middle of the trail route close to the Colorado River. There are similar primitive campgrounds on the nearby North Kaibab Trail. This is almost a 50-mile journey and is only permissible during the day. Unless you possess the proper training, you should not attempt it in a single day. The best time to hike this challenging trail is from May to October.

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The Grand Canyon National Park is visited by over 5 million travelers every year. It has been an official national monument since 1908. It took almost 6 million years to create this big ol’ hole in the ground too. The truth is this ever-changing landscape is still moving and morphing due to the steady direction to the mighty Colorado River.

Your roving writer (and anyone else who has hiked the canyon rim to rim) can tell you the area offers more than an athletic challenge. Here you’ll find five different tribes of Indians, 30 amphibians and reptiles, 70 species of mammals, and 250 species of birds. Indeed there are many things to see and do in and near the Grand Canyon. Here are nine of them.

1. Grand Canyon Village Historic District

Travel back through the mists of time to the early 1900s. Visit the Grand Canyon Village Historic District and learn about the town when it was still only starting to take shape. Today this is the heart of tourism at the Grand Canyon.

If you’re interested in the dominant influences of the Native Americans, visit the Kolb Studio and the Hopi House. Travel east of Grand Canyon Village and you will discover the popular visitor center. Here you can check out a huge 3-D map on the canyon’s experiences known as The Canyon World.

Here you can pick up a lot of fun facts. For example, did you know that the Grand Canyon itself is larger than the entire state of Rhode Island? (Cool, huh?)

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2. Havasu Falls

If you want to see Havasu Falls you’ll need to plan in advance. You will have to get the correct permits and make reservations too. Despite the extra effort required, Havasu Falls remains a popular destination as people long to see the green-blue falls. The land is outside of the jurisdiction and boundaries of Grand Canyon National Park.

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3. The Grand Canyon Railway

People who work for the well-known Grand Canyon Railway claim that it is “almost as dramatic as the spectacular surroundings.” Veteran visitors confirm it lives up to the hype. One highlight of riding on the popular Grand Canyon Railway is that you will be traveling with a number of “authentic western characters” to help take you back in time to the early 1900s.

Conservationists will be happy to learn that the railroad reportedly helps keep roughly 50,000 automobiles out of the park. Thus, it also helps to preserve this famous national treasure. Oddly enough, while the park is home to an assortment of wildlife from condors to bighorn sheep, the rock squirrels are responsible for the majority of first aid treatments to visitors. In other words, do not feed them!

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4. The Hualapai Tribe

The renowned Hualapai Tribe has resided in the Southwest for many generations. There are roughly 2,300 tribe members as this goes to press. Most of them live in Peach Springs. The tribe runs a hotel, gift shop, shopping center, and restaurants. They also operate the Skywalk which can be found on a stretch of land that runs along the western rim of the canyon.

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5. The Skywalk

The previously-mentioned Skywalk is a remarkable steel-framed, horseshoe-shaped, structure with a glass floor. It extends 70 feet out over the western end of the Grand Canyon and is hundreds of feet above the ground. Walking out to the very edge of Skywalk is not anyone who is the least bit faint of heart. It does, however, provide one with an incredible view of one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

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6. National Geographic Visitors Center and IMAX Theater

Veteran visitors say that National Geographic has built the “ultimate” visitors center here at the Grand Canyon Canton hotel room. Discover the details about the popular Inner Grand Canyon’s attractions, dining, shopping, and other events. Grab a quick bite to eat in the Explorer’s Café where the staff specializes in quick eating at an affordable price. Those who have been. suggest such favorites as hot dogs, pizza, sandwiches and the Asian rice bowls complete with fresh vegetables. Be sure to see the critically acclaimed IMAX movie Grand Canyon – The Hidden Secrets in what is one of the world’s first IMAX theaters.

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7.  Horseshoe Bend

Another popular attraction here is Horseshoe Bend. Horseshoe Bend is situated approximately 140 miles from the North and South Rim. It is 5 miles from the Grand Canyon National Park entrance. Once you arrive there, you need only hike about three-quarters of a mile to the edge that overlooks the beauteous bend in the mighty Colorado River.

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8. Lake Powell

Lake Powell can be found along the border of Arizona and Utah. This reservoir is the USA’s second-largest man-made lake. It’s also a very popular vacation destination as well.

It is 186 miles in length and includes 1,960 miles of shoreline. When it is full it stores a maximum of 24,322,000 acre-feet of water. There’s a lot to do here too. You can go fishing, ride jet skis and even rent a houseboat if you would like to stick around a bit longer.

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9.  Antelope Canyon

Instagramable Antelope Canyon is reported to be one of the United States’ “most photographed” locations. This stunning spot can be found approximately 12 miles southeast of the above-mentioned Lake Powell. More specifically, it is situated on official Navajo tribal land just outside of Page, Arizona. You can only visit Antelope Canyon by signing on with a guided tour. If you are a shutterbug, the best time to visit is during the early and late morning hours when the lighting is better.

Although the famous Grand Canyon may appear to be incredibly deep, especially if you are on the Skywalk looking down into it is actually not the world’s deepest canyon. If you want to see the deepest canyon on the planet you will have to travel to Tibet in Asia. There you will find the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon. America’s Grand Canyon, however, remains one of the country’s most impressive national monuments.

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