Point Imperial

Point Imperial is a high-elevation overlook at the eastern end of Grand Canyon's North Rim. At 8,803 feet, it is the highest point on the canyon rim. Keep it in your plans if you want the Painted Desert and the eastern Grand Canyon in one view, with narrow Marble Canyon showing as a winding cut before the canyon opens out. This is a roadside stop, with a short stroll from the parking area to the viewpoint, rather than a destination that requires a long hike.

Look east across the broad landscape, then trace Marble Canyon's narrow walls as they wind toward the wider canyon. Point Imperial's height and eastern position give you a view that feels different from the more familiar South Rim overlooks: the land opens toward the Painted Desert while the canyon's shape changes in front of you.

Red and black Precambrian rock layers add a strong color contrast to the view. These layers are visible from Point Imperial but not from Bright Angel Point, so take a moment to look past the big panorama and pick out the darker bands against the red cliffs.

Point Imperial Road branches from Cape Royal Road at the Y and runs nearly three miles to a one-way loop at the overlook. The drive passes high-elevation forest and open meadows, with seasonal wildflowers along the way. The road is narrow and winding, with blind corners; vehicles or vehicle-and-trailer combinations longer than 22 feet are prohibited. Snow can close the North Rim scenic roads in winter, so check access before making the drive.

At the point, you'll find parking, picnic tables, interpretive exhibits and vault toilets. Part of the viewpoint is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, though the accessible route is not described in detail. The picnic tables make this a good place to eat food you've brought along.

Sunrise and sunset put long shadows across the side canyons and mesas. Aim east and keep both the near canyon ridges and the wider horizon in the frame; that layered view shows how Marble Canyon narrows before opening into the Grand Canyon.