Coconino Overlook
Experience breathtaking, expansive Grand Canyon views from an easily accessible overlook on the North Rim.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Coconino Overlook
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking, expansive Grand Canyon views from an easily accessible overlook on the North Rim.
"Unbelievable view! This will test your fear of heights. Easy to reach from the rim."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be sandy with mule droppings. Proper shoes are a must for comfort and safety.
⬆️ Prepare for Uphill Return
The walk down is easier than the walk back up. Pace yourself and stay hydrated.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Expansive Canyon Views
North Kaibab Trailhead
Witness breathtaking, expansive views of the Grand Canyon from this easily accessible overlook.
Coconino Overlook Trail
North Kaibab Trail
A rewarding 0.9-mile trek down, offering a unique perspective of the canyon's depth and scale.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Coconino Overlook Visit
North Rim Entry & Trail Prep
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Day Trip to North Rim Recommendations
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be sandy with mule droppings. Proper shoes are a must for comfort and safety.
⬆️ Prepare for Uphill Return
The walk down is easier than the walk back up. Pace yourself and stay hydrated.
What's your favorite hike or view at the Grand Canyon north rim?
❄️ Winter Snow Advisory
Expect 1-2 feet of snow in winter. Bring appropriate gear for icy conditions.
💰 Park Entry Fee
A $35 per vehicle fee is required to enter the North Rim area.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be sandy with mule droppings. Proper shoes are a must for comfort and safety.
⬆️ Prepare for Uphill Return
The walk down is easier than the walk back up. Pace yourself and stay hydrated.
❄️ Winter Snow Advisory
Expect 1-2 feet of snow in winter. Bring appropriate gear for icy conditions.
💰 Park Entry Fee
A $35 per vehicle fee is required to enter the North Rim area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredible, expansive views of the Grand Canyon from Coconino Overlook on the North Rim. The short hike is considered well worth the effort for the breathtaking panoramas. Some note the trail can be sandy and mention winter snow, advising preparedness.
"Incredible views of the Canyon from the North Rim. It's only a ten minute hike from the trailhead and provides an expansive view. It will be covered in 1-2 feet of snow in the winter months so be prepared for that!"
Brad Kosar
"Unbelievable view! This will test your fear of heights. Easy to reach from the rim."
Matthew Bartmanski
"Beautiful spot to peer into the Grand Canyon from the North side. Approximately 0.9 mile down to the spot.
($35.00 park entry fee per vehicle)"
charles rowe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Coconino Overlook is located on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, approximately a 3-hour drive from St. George, Utah. Plan to leave early in the morning to maximize your day trip.
The overlook itself is a short hike from the North Kaibab Trailhead, which is accessible by car. The drive to the North Rim is scenic and part of the experience.
The drive to the North Rim is about 3 hours from St. George, Utah. It's a beautiful route, and many visitors enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The park entry fee for the Grand Canyon North Rim is $35.00 per vehicle. This fee grants access to the area and its viewpoints.
No specific reservation is needed for Coconino Overlook itself, but the Grand Canyon National Park has entry fees. It's always a good idea to check the official park website for any alerts or changes.
Coconino Overlook is an outdoor viewpoint and is generally accessible during park operating hours. The North Rim is typically open from mid-May to mid-October, but check official sources for exact dates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike down to Coconino Overlook from the trailhead takes about 30 minutes. The round trip is approximately 2.7 km (1.7 miles) with about 141 meters (462 feet) of elevation change.
Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes suitable for sandy terrain and potential mule droppings. Layers are recommended as weather can change.
The overlook offers expansive views that can be intimidating for those with a fear of heights. While the trail is well-maintained, the sheer drop-offs are significant.
The trail to Coconino Overlook has an elevation gain of approximately 141 meters (462 feet) on the return trip uphill.
While you get a fantastic overall view of the canyon's depth and scale, direct views of the Colorado River itself might be limited from this specific overlook.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer hues. Midday sun can be harsh.
Expect to capture sweeping panoramas of the Grand Canyon's vastness, intricate rock formations, and dramatic light and shadow play.
The main overlook area provides the primary vantage point. Experiment with different angles and focal lengths to capture the scale.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Ensure children wear appropriate footwear for sandy trails and are aware of the drop-offs at the overlook. Bringing plenty of water and snacks is essential, especially during warmer months. The expansive views offer a fantastic educational opportunity about geology and nature.
🚶 Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Recommendations for hikers: Wear sturdy hiking boots, pack water and snacks, and be prepared for the elevation gain on the way back. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for more pleasant hiking temperatures and fewer crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Coconino Overlook Trail Experience
Travelers often describe the walk as taking about 30 minutes down from the trailhead. The path can be sandy, and you might encounter mule droppings, so wearing appropriate footwear is crucial.
During winter months, the trail can be covered in 1-2 feet of snow, requiring careful preparation and potentially snow gear.
North Rim Day Trip Logistics
Remember that the North Rim has a $35.00 park entry fee per vehicle. This fee grants access to the scenic drives, viewpoints, and trailheads, including the one for Coconino Overlook.
Once you arrive, the Coconino Overlook is a relatively short hike from the rim, offering a rewarding experience without requiring a full day's commitment to hiking. This makes it an ideal stop for a day trip, allowing you to soak in the grandeur of the canyon before the drive back after sunset.
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