Lipan Point Grand Canyon
Experience dramatic, panoramic Grand Canyon views and the Colorado River from this popular, less crowded South Rim viewpoint.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Lipan Point Grand Canyon
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience dramatic, panoramic Grand Canyon views and the Colorado River from this popular, less crowded South Rim viewpoint.
"The view is unreal and you feel like you are out over the Canyon."
🚗 Small Parking Lot Alert
Parking is limited! Arrive early or be prepared to wait.
🚽 No Restrooms Here
Plan ahead! This viewpoint has no facilities. Bring water and essentials.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Unobstructed Canyon Panorama
Main viewpoint
Experience breathtaking, panoramic views of the Grand Canyon's depth, colors, and layers. Feel like you're floating over the vast expanse.
Prime Photography Spot
Main viewpoint
Capture unreal, awe-inspiring photos. The light and scale here make it a photographer's dream, especially from the South Rim.
Peaceful Atmosphere
Main viewpoint
Enjoy a more serene experience with fewer crowds, allowing for deeper appreciation of the canyon's grandeur.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Access
Essential Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
My favorite overlook viewpoint is Lipan Point. What’s yours?
🚗 Small Parking Lot Alert
Parking is limited! Arrive early or be prepared to wait.
🚽 No Restrooms Here
Plan ahead! This viewpoint has no facilities. Bring water and essentials.
Advice for visiting Grand Canyon
Ride to Lipan Point?
📸 Best for Photos
Unreal views make this a top spot for capturing stunning Grand Canyon pictures.
🚶♀️ East Entrance Advantage
Ideal stop if entering/exiting via the East Entrance or Desert View Watchtower.
Going to the Grand Canyon for the first time...what’s a MUST SEE?!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Small Parking Lot Alert
Parking is limited! Arrive early or be prepared to wait.
🚽 No Restrooms Here
Plan ahead! This viewpoint has no facilities. Bring water and essentials.
📸 Best for Photos
Unreal views make this a top spot for capturing stunning Grand Canyon pictures.
🚶♀️ East Entrance Advantage
Ideal stop if entering/exiting via the East Entrance or Desert View Watchtower.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Lipan Point for its stunning, panoramic Grand Canyon views that feel incredibly immersive. It's praised as an excellent spot for photography and offers a more peaceful experience than some other viewpoints. However, be aware of the very limited parking and the absence of restrooms, which requires some planning.
"By far the best view when entering from or heading toward the East Entrance or Desert View Watchtower within the Grand Canyon National Park.
Be aware there are no restrooms at this point and the parking lot is probably the smallest of any of the viewing locations between the Desert View Watchtower and South Village. However, if you are interested in pictures, this is the best place to get them. The view is unreal and you feel like you are out over the Canyon.
Highly recommend stopping here and getting pictures and experiencing the Grand Canyon."
Melissa Bollschweiler
"Just 1 of many spots to get a view of the canyon"
Carl and Marci Wiegand
"Lipan Point offered one of the best views of the Grand Canyon — the depth, colors, and layers were just incredible. It’s peaceful and less crowded, which made the experience even better. Parking is easy and right next to the viewpoint."
Daniyal Saleem Syed
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lipan Point is located on the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, accessible via Desert View Drive. It's about a 25-mile drive east from Grand Canyon Village. If you're coming from the East Entrance, it's one of the first major viewpoints you'll encounter. Parking is available directly at the viewpoint, but it's known to be quite small.
Lipan Point is not directly served by the main park shuttle bus system. You'll need to drive your own vehicle or arrange private transportation. Taxis are generally not available for point-to-point transport within the park.
Overnight parking is not recommended or typically permitted at Lipan Point due to its small lot and lack of security. It's best suited for day visits. If you're planning a multi-day hike, you'll need to arrange secure parking elsewhere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you need to pay the standard Grand Canyon National Park entrance fee to access Lipan Point. This fee covers entry to the entire South Rim for seven days. You can purchase passes at the park entrance stations or online in advance.
Lipan Point is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day, as it's an outdoor viewpoint within the national park. However, the best viewing times are during daylight hours, especially sunrise and sunset.
While popular, Lipan Point is often less crowded than Mather Point or Yavapai Point, especially outside of peak season or during early morning and late afternoon. Its smaller parking lot can contribute to a feeling of exclusivity when it's not full.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the most dramatic lighting for photography at Lipan Point. Sunrise paints the canyon walls with soft, warm hues, while sunset creates deep shadows and vibrant colors. The midday sun can be harsh, but the sheer scale is still impressive.
A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the vast panorama. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating specific formations or the Colorado River far below. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions during sunrise and sunset.
The main viewing area offers unobstructed views. For slightly different perspectives, explore the edges of the parking area, but always stay on designated paths and be mindful of safety. The sheer drop-offs are significant.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚗 Road Trippers & East Entrance Visitors
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grandeur of Lipan Point
The experience at Lipan Point is enhanced by its relative tranquility compared to more central viewpoints. While it does attract visitors, especially during prime viewing hours, it generally offers a more peaceful atmosphere. This allows for a deeper connection with the landscape, where the sheer scale and silence of the canyon can truly sink in. The accessibility from the East Entrance also makes it a convenient and impactful stop for those entering or exiting the park from that direction.
It's important to note that Lipan Point is a natural viewpoint with minimal amenities. Visitors should come prepared with water, snacks, and any personal necessities, as restrooms are not available on-site. The parking area is also notably small, so arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon can significantly improve your chances of securing a spot and enjoying the view without feeling rushed.
Photography Tips for Lipan Point
Beyond the main viewpoint, explore the edges of the designated viewing areas for slightly different perspectives, always prioritizing safety. The sheer drop-offs are a constant reminder of the canyon's power, so staying on marked paths is crucial. Many visitors find that the less crowded nature of Lipan Point, compared to other popular spots, allows for more time to compose shots and wait for the perfect light. The vibrant reds, oranges, and purples that paint the canyon walls during these times are truly unforgettable and make for stunning photographic subjects.
When planning your photography session, consider the weather. Clouds can add dramatic flair to the sky, creating dynamic lighting conditions. However, be prepared for changing temperatures, especially during early mornings and late evenings. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare and enhance the saturation of the canyon's colors. Ultimately, the best advice is to be patient, observe the changing light, and let the grandeur of the Grand Canyon inspire your shots.
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