Maricopa Point

Maricopa Point is a narrow rim projection on Hermit Road, reaching about 100 feet (30 m) northeast before the canyon drops away below. Its open view sweeps more than 180 degrees across the Grand Canyon, with several miles of the Tonto Trail visible on the slope below and, in clear conditions, a tiny glimpse of the Colorado River. Take this stop for the broad view and the old mine workings below.

From March 1 through November 30, private vehicles are excluded from Hermit Road; reach Maricopa by the Hermits Rest (Red) Route shuttle, on foot, by bicycle or with a commercial tour. In December through February, vehicles under 22 feet can use the road, but the shuttle does not run. The Maricopa stop is westbound-only and has no canyon view by itself, so follow the short, easy paved path to the rim and plan your return before getting off. The viewpoint is wheelchair accessible. On foot, Trailview Overlook is 0.7 mile east on pavement; Powell Point is 0.5 mile west, where the path changes from pavement to dirt.

Below the overlook are remnants of the Orphan Lode Mine: equipment and cable supports on the canyon wall, with a gate and clearing marking the rim above. Dan Hogan claimed the mine in 1891 for copper; it switched to uranium in the 1950s and closed in 1967. A brief hotel operation also stood near the rim. The park acquired the site in 1987, and major environmental restoration began in 2008. Mining hot spots remain, so stay on the marked trail.

Maricopa Point takes its name from the Maricopa people of south-central Arizona. Interpretive panels at the overlook also tell the story of the canyon’s controversial mining history.

A wide photo can include the Tonto Trail below the rim to show the canyon’s depth. Treat the Colorado River as a bonus: it is only a tiny glimpse here, even in clear conditions. Look a little left and down for the old mine equipment if you want a more specific frame than the panorama.