Kneeling Camel View

Overview

A quick, rewarding stop on the North Rim, Kneeling Camel View delivers classic Black Canyon drama without a hike. It’s a short stroll from a small roadside pullout to the rim, where the namesake rock formation—shaped like a kneeling camel—comes into view amid sheer cliffs and the Gunnison River far below.

What You’ll See

Expect steep, immediate drop-offs into the inner gorge, with a direct line of sight to the river and rugged, contoured walls. Look for the camel shape by scanning the canyon from the overlook—its “hump” and “head” profile are easiest to pick out when the light rakes across the rocks. Views stretch both directions along the chasm, making it a simple but photogenic stop.

Getting There & Logistics

Kneeling Camel View sits along North Rim Drive as part of a tight sequence of signed overlooks. There’s a small parking pullout and a short path to the rim. Services are minimal on this side of the park; the closest facilities are near the North Rim Ranger Station and North Rim Campground at the start of the drive. Note that North Rim roads are unpaved—passable when dry, but slow down and avoid slick conditions after rain.

How It Fits Into a North Rim Circuit

This lookout pairs well with nearby stops like The Narrows, Balanced Rock, Big Island, and Island Peaks. Each frames a slightly different angle of the inner canyon, so string a few together for a satisfying rim tour.

Best Time to Visit

Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light that makes the camel silhouette pop and adds depth to the cliffs. Midday can be harsh and flat for photos. While the North Rim is generally quieter than the South Rim, arriving earlier in the day helps with parking and gives you calmer overlooks.

Wildlife

This side of the park sees fewer visitors, so keep an eye out for birds riding the thermals and the occasional mule deer moving through the pinyon-juniper on the rim. Bring binoculars if you like to scan cliff faces and the river corridor.

Safety

You’re right on the rim here. Stay on the designated path and keep clear of unstable rock near the edge. Wind can be gusty; secure hats and loose items.