
Mohave Point Grand Canyon
A premier South Rim overlook offering sweeping vistas of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River, especially stunning at sunset.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Mohave Point Grand Canyon
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier South Rim overlook offering sweeping vistas of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River, especially stunning at sunset.
"Mohave Point offers one of the most breathtaking views in the Grand Canyon, especially at sunset."

🎯 Arrive Early for Sunset
Secure a prime spot near the railings at least an hour before sunset. It gets busy!
📸 Bring Your Camera
Photos don't do it justice, but you'll want to try! Capture the changing colors.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunset Spectacle
Main viewpoint
Witness the canyon walls ignite with fiery colors as the sun dips below the horizon. A truly unforgettable sight.

Colorado River Vista
Various outcrops
Gaze down at the mighty Colorado River carving its path through the ancient rock formations. Spot rapids on clear days.

Fossil Hunting
Around the viewpoint
Discover ancient seashell and fish fossils embedded in the rocks, a reminder of the area's prehistoric past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Mohave Point
Accessing Mohave Point
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Grand Canyon visit
🎯 Arrive Early for Sunset
Secure a prime spot near the railings at least an hour before sunset. It gets busy!
📸 Bring Your Camera
Photos don't do it justice, but you'll want to try! Capture the changing colors.
Visiting Arizona in two weeks and want to see the Grand Canyon. Any recommendations on the best place to view? I have one elder in my group that is mobile but won't be able to walk a ton. Thanks, in advance!
🚶♀️ Explore the Rim Trail
Walk or bike to Mohave Point for a more immersive experience.
🚗 Seasonal Access
Check park website for personal vehicle access (Dec-Feb) vs. shuttle bus (Mar-Nov).
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Sunset
Secure a prime spot near the railings at least an hour before sunset. It gets busy!
📸 Bring Your Camera
Photos don't do it justice, but you'll want to try! Capture the changing colors.
🚶♀️ Explore the Rim Trail
Walk or bike to Mohave Point for a more immersive experience.
🚗 Seasonal Access
Check park website for personal vehicle access (Dec-Feb) vs. shuttle bus (Mar-Nov).
🧐 Look for Fossils
Keep an eye out for ancient fossils embedded in the rocks. Leave them in place!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Mohave Point's breathtaking panoramic views, especially during sunset when the canyon walls glow with vibrant colors. Many appreciate its slightly less crowded atmosphere compared to other popular viewpoints, offering a more peaceful experience. The clear view of the Colorado River and the opportunity to spot fossils add to its appeal.
"This is one of the more popular and prominent viewpoints along the Desert View Drive in Grand Canyon National Park. From this location you can walk out to several different outcrops, each providing a different and spectacular view of the vistas of the Colorado River, which were carved out of this massive canyon over millions of years. From the views to the east, you can see the vast expanse of the canyon, while to the west, the rugged landscape stretches towards the horizon. The viewpoint is named after the Mojave tribe, a Native American group that once inhabited the region. This is also a special stop for photographers and nature enthusiasts and is also a great spot for sunrise and sunset viewing, when the canyon's rust-hued rocks are bathed in golden sunlight. Access to this location is possible by hiking on the Rim Trail or riding the Park Services’ shuttle bus system from March to November. During the months of December to the end of February you can drive your personal vehicle but recommend checking the Park Services website for any changes."
Thomas B
"While most people focus on the breathtaking scenery of the Grand Canyon, it's fascinating to know that this area was once under the sea around 200,000 years ago. As a result, you can find plenty of seashell and fish fossils embedded in the rocks. It’s also a fun activity to go fossil hunting with kids and enjoy some hands-on discovery together. Just remember, any fossils you find must be left where they are."
Jin Sung Ra
"The main sunset location, and it's a busy one. It can be difficult to get a spot near the railings as those fill up very quickly, but with time I was able to snap some photos from a few different places. Well worth visiting."
Natalia Widdison
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mohave Point is located on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon along Hermit Road. From March to November, you'll need to use the free park shuttle bus system (Hermit Road Route). During winter months (December to February), personal vehicles are typically allowed, but it's always best to check the official Grand Canyon National Park website for current access information and any potential changes.
Yes, but only during specific times of the year. Personal vehicles can usually drive to Mohave Point along Hermit Road from December through February. For the rest of the year, Hermit Road is closed to private vehicles and accessible only by the park's shuttle bus system.
Absolutely! Mohave Point is accessible via the Rim Trail, which is a paved, relatively flat path. Walking or biking to Mohave Point offers a more intimate experience with the canyon and allows you to stop at other viewpoints along Hermit Road.
You'll want to take the Hermit Road (Red) Route shuttle bus from the Village area. Mohave Point is one of the designated stops along this scenic route. The shuttle runs frequently during its operating season.
Parking is very limited at Mohave Point itself, especially during peak season when the road is closed to private vehicles. It's best to park at the Grand Canyon Village or other designated parking areas and utilize the shuttle bus system to reach Mohave Point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Mohave Point is located within Grand Canyon National Park. You will need to pay the park entrance fee to enter the park. Once inside, access to Mohave Point via the shuttle bus or Rim Trail is free.
Mohave Point itself is an overlook and is accessible whenever the park is open. However, access via the shuttle bus has specific operating hours, which vary seasonally. Always check the park's official website for the most up-to-date shuttle schedules.
No, the shuttle bus system within Grand Canyon National Park, including the Hermit Road (Red) Route that services Mohave Point, is free to all park visitors.
You don't buy tickets specifically for Mohave Point. Your park entrance fee grants you access to the entire South Rim, including all overlooks like Mohave Point.
It's recommended to purchase your Grand Canyon National Park entrance pass online in advance to save time upon arrival, especially during peak season. You can also purchase them at the park entrance stations.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset is incredibly popular and offers dramatic lighting, but it's also the most crowded. Sunrise provides a more peaceful experience with soft, beautiful light. Late afternoon also offers great light as the sun begins to lower, casting long shadows.
You can capture sweeping panoramic vistas of the Grand Canyon, the winding Colorado River below, and the intricate layers of rock formations. It's also a fantastic spot for landscape and sunset photography.
Generally, there are no specific photography restrictions at Mohave Point, other than the standard park rules about not disturbing wildlife or damaging natural resources. Tripods are usually allowed, but be mindful of other visitors, especially during busy times.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the canyon. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or zooming in on the river. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions like sunset and sunrise.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited within Grand Canyon National Park, including at Mohave Point, to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The primary activity is enjoying the breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River. It's an excellent spot for photography, quiet contemplation, and watching the sunset. You can also explore the surrounding Rim Trail.
Mohave Point is one of the more popular viewpoints, especially for sunset. While it can get crowded, it's often described as less crowded than some other major viewpoints like Mather Point or Hopi Point, offering a slightly more peaceful experience. Arriving early is key.
Yes, there are restrooms available at Mohave Point, which is convenient for visitors spending time there, especially during sunset.
While there are no designated picnic tables, you can bring your own food and enjoy a picnic with a view. Be sure to pack out all your trash to keep the area clean.
The viewpoint is named after the Mojave tribe, a Native American group that historically inhabited the region. Their connection to the land adds a layer of cultural significance to the location.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While sunset is popular, consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid the biggest crowds and ensure kids have enough energy to enjoy the views. The restrooms at the viewpoint are also a convenient amenity for families. The sheer scale of the canyon is awe-inspiring for all ages, making Mohave Point a memorable stop for a family trip to the Grand Canyon.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the immense scale of the canyon and a telephoto lens to isolate details or focus on the river. The changing light throughout the day offers diverse photographic opportunities, from the soft hues of sunrise to the dramatic shadows of sunset. Remember to pack extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll likely be tempted to shoot extensively.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers
Consider parking at the Village and taking the shuttle to a further point, then walking back towards the Village, stopping at Mohave Point and other overlooks along the way. This allows you to experience multiple viewpoints without the need for multiple shuttle rides and offers a more intimate connection with the park's natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Sunset at Mohave Point
Photographers will find this time of day particularly rewarding, with the changing light offering dynamic opportunities for capturing the canyon's immense scale and intricate textures. Even without a camera, simply sitting and observing the slow, majestic transition of light and color is a profound experience. The Colorado River, visible far below, often catches the last rays of sunlight, appearing to glow. This visual drama is a key reason why Mohave Point is a must-visit for many Grand Canyon travelers.
Accessing Hermit Road and Mohave Point
During the winter months (December 1st through February 28th), Hermit Road is usually open to personal vehicles, allowing for more flexibility in visiting Mohave Point. However, it's crucial to always verify the current access status on the official Grand Canyon National Park website, as conditions or park regulations can change. For those who enjoy a more active exploration, biking or walking the Rim Trail to Mohave Point is also a fantastic option, offering opportunities to stop at other viewpoints and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
Discovering Ancient History: Fossils at Mohave Point
While discovering these ancient remnants is an exciting part of the visit, it's important to remember park regulations. Visitors are encouraged to observe and photograph fossils but are strictly prohibited from collecting them. Leaving fossils in their natural setting ensures that these pieces of prehistory remain for future generations to discover and appreciate. It's a gentle reminder of the immense timescale involved in the formation of the Grand Canyon.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit