Point Imperial Trail

Point Imperial Trail is a backcountry out-and-back from the left end of the Point Imperial parking area to Grand Canyon's northern park boundary. It follows the rim through sections burned in the 2000 Outlet Fire. The mapped route is about 2.6 miles each way, or 5.2 miles round trip; allow 2.5 to 3 hours. The park's posted figure is 4 miles round trip, but the mapped path and other trail listings put it around 5.2 to 5.3 miles, so plan for the longer walk.

This is a longer rim walk, not just a stroll around the overlook. The route crosses an old burn area with little shade, so this is a sun-exposed backcountry walk rather than a developed rim stroll. No water source is listed along the route; check the trail's latest condition with the Backcountry Information Center before setting out.

Point Imperial itself is at the trailhead: the 8,803-foot overlook is the highest point on the Grand Canyon rim, with views toward the Painted Desert and eastern canyon. Red and black Precambrian rock layers add contrast to that view. The trail continues north and ends at the park boundary; connections toward Nankoweap Trail and Kaibab National Forest continue beyond this hike. Turn around at the boundary for the Point Imperial Trail out-and-back.

Start at the left end of the Point Imperial parking lot. Vault toilets and a picnic area are at the overlook, not along the trail; bring your own food and water. Point Imperial Road is narrow and winding, and RVs over 22 feet or vehicle-trailer combinations over 22 feet are prohibited. Dogs are not allowed on this route; leashed pets are limited to the North Rim's designated bridle trail and a section of the Arizona Trail. Winter and early-spring ice can make upper sections dangerously slick, so traction devices are recommended.