Place · 0.4 mi away
Why hike it
If you want huge Grand Canyon views without the crowds or effort, this is your move. Shoshone Point is a mellow, mostly flat walk on a gated dirt road to a narrow rim point with a more‑than‑180° panorama. It’s about 2.0 miles total, out-and-back from the roadside gate, and usually far quieter than the signed overlooks.
What the walk is like
Start behind the locked gate and follow the wide, gently graded dirt road through shaded ponderosa pine; it transitions to pinyon–juniper as you near the rim. The endpoint is a cliff‑edge promontory with sweeping, unobstructed canyon views—photographers love the perspective and the relative solitude. Look closely at the layered rim—this is classic South Rim geology capped by Kaibab Limestone.
Facilities and access
At the end of the road you’ll find a rustic picnic area with tables, grills, a large ramada, and restrooms. Water is not available, and restrooms may be locked in the off‑season. The picnic area/ramada can be reserved for weddings and gatherings (typically in the warm season), but walking to the point does not require a permit.
Getting there and parking
The trail begins at an unsigned dirt pullout along Desert View Drive (Highway 64), roughly between mileposts 244–245. Park in the small lot, go through the gate, and follow the obvious road for about a mile to the rim. The lot is limited and unsigned—arrive early during peak seasons.
Best time to hike
Year‑round. It’s especially lovely in winter when snow dusts the forest and canyon—and the gentle grade makes it a standout cold‑season vista walk. Sunrise lights the canyon beautifully here; sunset colors can be excellent too, though the sun itself is less direct at the point. In summer, the shaded forest keeps things pleasant; go early or late for the best light and the most solitude.
Who will love it (and who won’t)
Families, casual hikers, and photographers get top‑tier views for minimal effort. If you’re seeking a workout or a technical trail, this one won’t scratch that itch—it’s all about the peaceful approach and the grand finale view.
Keep an eye out
Elk, deer, and even bighorn sheep sometimes wander through, and rattlesnakes are possible. In winter, this route works well for a quiet snowshoe after storms.
Pros
- Reservable ramada and picnic area at the end without sacrificing the view
- Unusually quiet South Rim viewpoint reached by a short, easy walk
Cons
- Small, unsigned parking pullout can be easy to miss and fills quickly
- No water and restrooms may be locked in the off‑season; bring all you need
Parking
Small, unsigned dirt pullout off Desert View Drive (Hwy 64) between mileposts 244–245; park by the locked gate and walk the old road.
Caution
Cliff edges at the point; watch footing. No water available and restrooms can be locked in the off‑season. Rattlesnakes possible. Occasional private events may reduce solitude at the picnic area, though the point remains walk‑in accessible.
