Point Imperial Viewpoint
North Rim, Arizona
| Address: | ~Point Imperial Rd, North Rim, AZ 86052, USA |
| GPS: |
36°16'44.7"N 111°58'40.8"W Maps | Directions |
| State: | Arizona |
| Trail Length: | 0.20 miles |
| Trail Type: | Out & Back |
| Hike Difficulty: | Beginner |
| Elevation Gain: | 137 feet |
| Trails/Routes: | 0.2 mi |
Restrooms Pet Friendly
Hike
At 8,803 feet (2,683 meters), Point Imperial is the highest viewpoint in Grand Canyon. With sweeping eastern views, it’s also the best place for sunrise on the North Rim. The prominent spire in front of the viewpoint marks the top of Mount Hayden. The 8,372-foot spire is composed of Coconino Sandstone, which formed roughly 265 million years ago when Northern Arizona was covered with massive sand dunes similar to today’s Sahara Desert. Over millions of years, the sand dunes compressed into sandstone.Courtesy of jameskaiser.com
This 11-mile (one way) drive from the Visitor Center leads to Point Imperial, the highest rim overlook in the park at elevation 8,803 feet. From here the canyon view encompasses Mt. Hayden, Vermilion Cliffs and Marble Canyon as well as an area of the park that was burned by the 2000 Outlet wildfire. Picnic tables are located at the point and an interpretive sign describes geologic formations.Courtesy of mygrandcanyonpark.com
More Information
Be courteous, informed, and prepared. Read trailhead guidelines, stay on the trail, and don't feed the wildlife.
Read More
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel & camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
Directions
From North Rim, Arizona
- Head northwest on AZ-67 N toward Bridle PathMay be closed at certain times or days(1.9 mi)
- Turn rightMay be closed at certain times or days(5.4 mi)
- Continue onto Point Imperial RdMay be closed at certain times or days(210 ft)
- Slight left to stay on Point Imperial RdParts of this road may be closed at certain times or daysDestination will be on the right(2.7 mi)
Trails
Distance ?
1,054 feetElevation Gain ?
-425 feetReal Ascent ?
0 feetReal Descent ?
425 feetAvg Grade (-24°)
-45%Grade (-29° to 0°)
-56% to 0%Elevation differences are scaled for emphasis. While the numbers are accurate, the cut-away shown here is not to scale.
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