SA Report: Subverted expectations

Trip Date: 8/30/2017

Location: North Rim (Grand Canyon National Park)

Permit/Pass: Vehicle - $30, Motorcycle - $25

Trail maps: nps.gov

Directions: From Kanab, Utah, take Hwy 89A (also S 100 E) south toward the Arizona state line. Follow 89A for 36.6 miles as it goes through Fredonia, Arizona (where it turns toward the east), then turns south again to head up onto the Kaibab Plateau. Upon reaching the Jacob Lake area turn right onto AZ-67 S. Follow the road south through the forest for 40.6 more miles, passing through the national park kiosk and finally reaching the left turn onto Pt. Imperial Rd. Continue east on the road for about 5.5 miles before veering left at a fork in the road. Another two and a half miles brings you to the Pt. Imperial Overlook parking area.

Synopsis: Point Imperial is good spot for a lunch break - especially as it comes surrounded by magnificent scenery. There's little challenge here beyond resisting the urge to take yet another dozen pictures of the canyon, but as long as you're driving out to Cape Royal, it's worth a stop.

Trail sequence: Overlook path

Type: Out and back

Distance: 0.1 mile

Rating: Easy (factors: altitude, paved path)

Notes: There is a nice picnic area and restrooms on the other side of the parking area.

Track: Point Imperial Overlook - Grand Canyon NP: AllTrails, GaiaGPS

Turn by Turn:

  -- After parking, find the trailhead on the east side of the lot and head east down the paved path. Return as you came.

Photos: Flickr