Pros & cons
PROS
- Quick stop with parking just steps from the overlook
- Distinct view of the canyon’s “Big Island” and broad panoramas
CONS
- No facilities on site
- Less dramatic than some other North Rim viewpoints
Overview
Big Island View is a North Rim overlook perched above the Gunnison River. It’s an easy, short walk from the parking area, making it a convenient stop as you work your way along North Rim Drive. Expect a quieter scene than the South Rim and a vantage that feels a bit different from the sheer-drop drama the park is known for.
What You’ll See
- A distinctive look at the canyon’s namesake “island”—a prominent, forested high plateau surrounded by cliffs.
- Broad east–west panoramas where the upstream canyon is noticeably wider and the slopes are less steep than many other viewpoints.
- Partly wooded slopes and intermediate ravines that break up the walls, plus the Gunnison River visible below.
- A good angle toward nearby Island Peaks, offering variety if you’re stopping at multiple overlooks.
Getting There
Located along the North Rim Drive, Big Island View has a designated pullout/parking area with a very short stroll to the railing. The road is gravel but typically suitable for most vehicles in normal conditions.
Best Time to Visit
Come during daylight for the easiest, most satisfying views and photos. The North Rim generally sees fewer people than the South Rim, so crowding is seldom an issue. The road and overlooks can be inaccessible in winter due to snow—check conditions before you go.
Wildlife
This stretch of rim hosts mule deer, birds of prey (hawks and eagles), smaller mammals, and songbirds. Very occasional sightings of black bears or bobcats occur elsewhere along the rim.
Photography Tips
Bring binoculars or a zoom lens to pick out details along the river and the “island” feature. The spot works for both wide-angle canyon shots and tighter compositions of cliffs, ravines, and treed slopes.
Know Before You Go
There are no amenities here—no water, restrooms, or services—so come prepared. The overlook is exposed to sun and wind; pack water, sun protection, and layers if you’re touring multiple stops. It’s one of several North Rim overlooks and not the most dramatic, but it adds useful variety to a full rim tour.
Where it is
38.5730, -107.6946Tips for Big Island View
- 01Pair this stop with nearby Island Peaks View for complementary angles.
- 02Bring binoculars or a zoom lens to study the river and cliff details.
- 03North Rim Drive is gravel—drive slowly and confirm seasonal access.
- 04Visit in daylight for the clearest, most satisfying views.
- 05It’s a very short walk from parking, perfect for a quick North Rim loop.
Amenities
Near Big Island View
All places →All trails →
0.3 mi awayBalanced Rock OverlookShort walk to a striking rock and dizzying canyon depthTrailhead · Pullout
0.3 mi awayIsland Peaks ViewQuiet North Rim viewpoint over jagged canyon wallsScenic Viewpoint
0.4 mi awayThe Narrows ViewQuick walk to peer into the canyon’s tightest squeezePullout · Parking
0.4 mi awayCross Fissures ViewShort walk to dramatic fissures and jagged canyon wallsScenic Viewpoint · Trailhead
1.1 mi awayNorth Vista TrailNorth Rim stunner to Exclamation Point and a quiet summitModerate · 7 mi · 3.5 hr
1.1 mi awayChasm View Nature TrailShort loop to the North Rim’s tightest, wildest canyon viewsEasy · 0.5 mi · 30 min
1.3 mi awayGunnison RouteShort, brutal drop to the Gunnison River with chains and screeChallenging · 2.7 mi · 5 hr
1.3 mi awayOak Flat Loop TrailShort, below-the-rim loop with big canyon drama and quick accessModerate · 1.6 mi · 1.3 hr
