Cape Final Trail

Most of the hike to Cape Final is through the forest, but the view at the end is worth it.

NPS

Quick Facts

Location:

North Rim

Amenities

2 listed

Scenic View/Photo Spot, Trailhead

NOTE: The North Rim of the park, along with Cape Royal Road, are open seasonally from May 15, through October 15, (with all visitor services).

NOTE: RVs over 22 feet long, and vehicle-trailer combinations with a total length over 22 feet, are not permitted on Cape Royal Road and the Scenic Drive. due to the narrow, windy roads with blind corners.

The Cape Final Trail is a relatively flat, forested trail that leads hikers 2.1 miles (3.4 k) to Cape Final, for a 4.2 miles (6.8 km) round trip hike. The trail begins from a small dirt parking lot alongside Cape Royal Road, and 2.4 miles (3.9 km) north of the Cape Royal parking lot.

The first half of this rocky trail is entirely within the forest, however, views of the eastern Grand Canyon begin peaking through the trees around the halfway mark. The trail comes to an end at Cape Final, one of the most spectacular viewpoints on the North Rim of Grand Canyon.

Trail Information

• Roundtrip Distance: 4.2 miles (6.8 km)
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Elevation change: 465 feet (0.14 m)
• Average Hiking Time: 2-4 hours
• Bring plenty of water; there is no water along the trail
• No shade at the viewpoint—bring sun protection

• A few primitive campsites are near the viewpoint, but you must first obtain a permit from the North Rim Backcountry Information Center.