Last updated: October 17, 2026
Place
Point Imperial Trail
Quick Facts
Point Imperial 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.
The Point Imperial Trail from Point Imperial to the Forest Service boundry, is a distance of 2 miles (3.2 km), or 4.0 mi. (6.4 km) round-trip; 2 hours approximate round-trip hiking time.
Be aware that this trail has not been maintained recently. Best to contact the Backcountry Information Center (email) or call 928-638-7875, between 8 am and 5 pm Monday through Friday, except on federal holidays., if you are interested in this trail.
Trail Information
Located at the left end of the parking lot at Point Imperial, this 2 mile (3.2 km), or 4.0 mi. (6.4 km round-trip) trail passes through areas burned by the 2000 Outlet Fire and ends at the northern park boundary. From there, connections are possible to the Nankoweap Trail and Kaibab National Forest.
Hike Smart
Make a Plan
Once you have researched your trip and are confident in what to expect on the trail, leave your plan with someone who will notice if you are overdue and report it to 911.
Check the Weather
Summer temperatures in the shade routinely pass 100°F (38°C). Avoid hiking between 10 am and 4 pm, the hottest times of day.
From July to September, monsoons can build large, violent lightning storms. Seek shelter immediately.
In winter and early spring, temperatures can drop below 32°F (0°C) and upper portions of this steep trail become dangerously icy. Hard ice often conceals potentially hazardous passages. Over-the-shoe traction devices are highly recommended.
Pack Properly
It is critical to determine before your hike your needs for fluids and for snacks high in calories and salts. Consuming twice as many calories as during normal exercise is realistic for summer canyon hikes. The return hike will likely take twice as long as the hike down. Wearing sun hats and cool, wet clothing will help regulate your core body temperature during warmer hikes.
Energy Balance
Your body needs energy-balancing: proper nutrition and hydration are critical to your hiking success! Eat and drink while resting-sip fluids only when thirsty.
Too little water leads to dehydration and heat stroke. Excessive hydration and insufficient salt intake causes hyponatremia—a seizure-producing electrolyte disorder. If you do not feel well: seek shade, get wet, cool off, eat, and rest. Turning around may be your best option.
NOTE: RVs over 22 feet long, and vehicle-trailer combinations with a total length over 22 feet, are not permitted on the Point Imperial and Cape Royal scenic roads due to narrow, windy roads with blind corners.