Last updated: October 16, 2026
Place
Point Imperial
NPS/M. Quinn
Quick Facts
Location:
North Rim
Significance:
Scenic Overlook
Amenities
6 listed
Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Picnic Table, Restroom, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Toilet - Vault/Composting, Trailhead
Point Imperial 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 highest point on the rim of Grand Canyon at 8,803 feet (2,683 m), Point Imperial is also the most northern boundary of the park. Note: Post-fire hazards and weather events may result in a temporary closure of this location.
The drive to Point Imperial is part of the experience. The scenic road passes through high-elevation forests, open meadows, wildfire recovery areas, and seasonal wildflowers before reaching the overlook.
Fom the ‘Y’ with Cape Royal Road, the road to Point Imperial is nearly three miles (4.5 km) to a one-way loop road at the point itself. There is a picnic area and vault toilets at the point.
From Point Imperial, visitors have views of the Painted Desert and the eastern end of Grand Canyon. It is from this area that the canyon transforms from the narrow walls of Marble Canyon, visible only as a winding gash, to a more open and dramatic "grand" canyon.
Layers of red and black Precambrian rocks, not visible from Bright Angel Point, add contrast and color.
Sunrise and sunset at Point Imperial are especially dramatic because of the long shadows cast across the side canyons and mesas.
Part of the viewpoint is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
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 to Point Imperial, due to narrow, windy roads with blind corners.