Best three comprehensive views of the Grand Canyon are on the North Rim!

The North Rim provides the best three comprehensive views of the Grand Canyon. However one is easy to reach while the other two require more effort.

Point Imperial

As you begin the drive on Cape Royal Road, you’ll come to an intersection after about 5 miles. Cape Royal Road veers to the right. But a jog to the left travels 2.7 miles to Imperial Point, the highest viewpoint in Grand Canyon National Park at 8,803 ft.

You’ll see expansive views of the Painted Desert along with the eastern end of the Grand Canyon. You’ll also notice more color on the canyon walls. It comes from layers of red and black Precambrian rocks not visible at other overlooks.

Toroweap (now known as Tuweep)

Toroweap (park website), or Tuweep, offers outstanding views in a remote corner of the Grand Canyon. This backcountry adventure, located on the northwestern edge of the Grand Canyon, requires planning, good weather (dirt roads become impassable with rain, thunderstorms or snow), and permits.

There are no services including food, gas, cell service, or lodging. You are truly on your own. Flat tires are common so travel slowly, 30 mph is suggested. Be sure to bring a spare tire or patch kit.

Alan traveled to Toroweap some years ago on a solo photography trip (I don’t dry camp). The 61-mile dirt road drive on the slow going Sunshine Route (the best route) makes for a very long day. While a day trip is doable, camping overnight is the best option (you’ll need a backcountry permit).

Why is the trip to Tuweep worth it? You’ll gaze (watch your step!) over the edge of a 3,000 ft sheer rock drop into the Colorado River. You can also see and hear Lava Falls, the Colorado River’s most challenging rapid, from here.

As of 2023, the National Park Service requires a $2 day use permit purchased in advance (in addition to your National Park pass) to visit Tuweep (Toroweap). Sadly, excessive visitation to this remote destination is causing overcrowding and traffic congestion.

Point Sublime

The gnarly road to Point Sublime might surprise you. Rather than the rocky desert landscape of Toroweap, you’ll travel through alpine forests and meadows of the Kaibab National Forest.

The one-way 17.7-mile-road to Point Sublime requires high clearance and four wheel drive is recommended. So why is it gnarly? Steep drop-offs on both sides of the road accompany your last four miles of the drive.

The reward is standing on a peninsula that juts out into the Grand Canyon. The unobstructed views are jaw dropping. This drive is definitely on the list for our next visit.

Best places on the North Rim to photograph sunrise and sunset

Bright Angel Point is a wonderful (and convenient) spot for sunrise that includes classic North Rim views. Wear a jacket because even summer morning temperatures can be chilly as you walk from the trail from Grand Canyon Lodge. Also bring a flashlight for walking in the dark before the sun rises.

Bright Angel Point makes a good sunset spot, too. You’ll want to bring a flashlight for walking back in the dark.

The back porch at Grand Canyon Lodge is a comfortable place to watch the sunset. Photographers will find it more challenging due to the number of people milling around. Since this is a very popular spot, arrive early to claim your space.

Cape Royal or Point Imperial are good candidates for sunrise and sunset photos, if you’re willing to drive Cape Royal Road in the dark to arrive either before sunrise or after admiring the last colorful hues of a sunset.