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Point Imperial

North Rim, AZ

Views

The highest viewpoint on either rim, looking east over the Painted Desert and the start of Marble Canyon. It is reached by a short paved spur off the Cape Royal Road, with a small parking lot a few steps from the railing.

Point Imperial is a viewpoint on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona and, at 8,803 feet (2,683 m), the highest point on the canyon rim; it marks the park's northern boundary. Lonely Planet calls it the highest overlook in the park. The view sweeps over Marble Canyon, which opens into the Painted Desert beneath the Vermilion Cliffs. Directly below the point lies Nankoweap Valley, where Pueblo farmers once lived; to the southwest Mount Hayden rises.

The Park Service highlights sunrise and sunset. The Point Imperial Road, nearly three miles (4.5 km) long, leads to the point from the junction with the Cape Royal Road; at the end is a one-way loop with a picnic area and restrooms. The overlook is partly wheelchair accessible.

Important for RVs: vehicles and combinations over 22 feet (6.7 m) are not allowed on this road or on the Cape Royal Road. The road can be closed seasonally or for construction. In autumn the North Rim runs only limited day-use operations until November 30, and there is no water or food from October 16 to November 30 (as of November 2026, check ahead).

Nearest town
North Rim, AZ
Category
Scenic viewpoints
GPS
36.2786, -111.9772

Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.

Good to know

Best time to go

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

The most pleasant months are usually April–May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in June and November. Hot in July. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)

Sources

Featured in these trip guides

Nearby

Campsites nearby

All campsites in Arizona · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026

FAQs

Where is Point Imperial?

Point Imperial is in North Rim, AZ, at GPS 36.2786, -111.9772. It is about 7 mi from Grand Canyon North Rim.

Can you camp near Point Imperial?

Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is North Rim Campground, about 7 mi away; within 25 mi there are 16 campsites and motorhome stopovers.

Which road trips pass Point Imperial?

Point Imperial is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Grand Canyon North Rim and Marble Canyon: Kanab to Page.

What is there to see near Point Imperial?

Places worth a stop nearby: Cape Royal (11 mi), Mather Campground (18 mi), El Tovar Hotel (18 mi) and Grand Canyon National Park – South Rim (18 mi).

When is the best time to visit Point Imperial?

The most pleasant months are usually April–May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in June and November. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)

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