Place

Cape Final Trail

A dirt trail leads through a forest.
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
Significance:
Backcountry trail

Scenic View/Photo Spot, Trailhead

Cape Final Trail is reached via the North Rim Scenic Roads.

The North Rim Scenic Roads (Cape Royal Road and Point Imperial Road) are closed from sunset October 15 through sunrise November. 3, 2026, to accommodate critical road repair and rehabilitation work.

Limited fall day-use operations are in place on the North Rim, between October 15, and November 30, 2026 - unless the North Rim is closed by a major snow storm before November 30. 

  • The North Rim Campground, General Store and Backcountry Information Office have closed for the 2026 season. 
 
  • DRINKING WATER and FOOD are not available on the North Rim between October 16 and November 30, 2026. We encourage everyone planning a North Rim visit to check current conditions, carry adequate food, water, fuel, and emergency supplies, and use extra caution as winter weather arrives.

Cape Final Trail

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. Note: Post-fire hazards and weather events may result in a temporary closure of this trail.

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.


  • 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.

     

Grand Canyon National Park

Tags: grand canyon national park, trail, cape final, cape, north rim, grand canyon, backcountry, camping, hiking

Last updated: October 16, 2026