Pros & cons
PROS
- Big panoramas of the canyon and the famous Shafer Trail switchbacks
- Often quieter than the main point but just as photogenic
CONS
- No restrooms or water at the overlook
- Sheer drop-offs can feel intense for anyone wary of heights
Overview
Shafer Canyon Overlook is a viewpoint reached by a spur from the West Rim Trail in Dead Horse Point State Park. The park hiking map places it west of Wingate Campground, between Rim Overlook and Meander Overlook.
Getting There
Follow the West Rim Trail from the Visitor Center or the campground connections, then take the signed overlook spur. The official map labels the spur as 0.25 mile. There is no drive-up parking pullout at this viewpoint.
What to Expect
The viewpoint looks into the layered cliffs and open depths of Shafer Canyon. Walk only on the marked route, use care near the unguarded edge, and carry water and sun protection. Services are at the visitor center and campgrounds. This overlook is distinct from the roadside Shafer Canyon overlooks in neighboring Canyonlands National Park.
Where it is
38.4794, -109.7504Tips for Shafer Canyon Overlook
- 01Come in early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer people.
- 02Bring plenty of water and sun protection—there are no services at the overlook.
- 03Keep a safe distance from the rim; some sections are unguarded and exposed.
- 04If you plan to drive the Shafer Trail, confirm current conditions and bring high-clearance 4WD.
Amenities
Near Shafer Canyon Overlook
All places →All trails →
0.2 mi awayShafer Canyon Overlook TrailShort West Rim spur to broad Shafer Canyon views and a glimpse of the Colorado River.Easy · 0.5 mi · 30 min
0.3 mi awayMeander OverlookAn intimate, river‑centric view of a sweeping canyon meanderScenic Viewpoint
0.5 mi awayWingate CampgroundMesa-top campsites with hookups, big views and dark-sky nightsCampground · Restroom
0.7 mi awayRim OverlookQuiet West Rim spur viewpoint above Shafer CanyonScenic Viewpoint
0.7 mi awayKayenta CampgroundSmall, quiet rim-top base with hookups and stellar dark skiesTrailhead · Restroom
0.9 mi awayDead Horse Point Overlook TrailA short paved, ADA-accessible path from the Dead Horse Point Trailhead to the park's iconic main overlook.Easy · 0.1 mi · 6 min
1 mi awayDead Horse Visitors Center LoopShort paved visitor-center loop with three desert viewpoints and interpretive exhibitsEasy · 0.3 mi · 15 min
1 mi awayVisitor Center Nature TrailShort paved one-way walk with desert exhibits beside the visitor centerEasy · 0.2 mi · 7 min
