Hopi Point Hike

Route Description for Hopi Point Hike

Hopi Point is the viewpoint on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. This point extends further north into the canyon than any other viewpoint, giving you the most complete view you can find in all directions. Very nearly the entire canyon is visible from this point, from Shiva Temple to the North Rim to the Great Scenic Divide.

This route is just under 6.4 km long with very gentle elevation gain. The footing is very even and smooth and you won’t need any special gear or preparations aside from having some water on hand if it’s a hot day.

Hopi Point is quite easy to get to for such an amazing viewpoint. You can actually take the shuttle along Hermit Road, but we prefer to hike in to fully appreciate the views. This route starts from the trail intersection between the Village Route Transfer Station and Hermits Rest Route Transfer Station.

From the trailhead, hike away from the village on West Rim Trail as it runs alongside Hermit Road. The route then pulls away from the road to follow the rim as it begins to reach north. You can stop into the Trailview Overlook for a midway viewpoint when it comes up on your right.

You’ll now be hiking between the rim and Hermit Road again. You’ll pass Maricopa Point as the route turns west, so feel free to take a quick detour here to enjoy the view. The route passes by Powell Point next, the last viewpoint before Hopi Point.

Hugging the rim, you’ll arrive at Hopi Point. Dana Butte rises right ahead of you, The Battleship on your right, and The Alligator on your left. The Colorado River snakes below these formations.

Snap photos and take it all in. If you’re lucky enough to be here when not many others are, you can listen to how still and quiet the air is over this massive marvel.

Once you’re ready, you’ll return to the village on the same route you used to hike out. Alternatively, you can keep hiking on the Rim Trail to check out more viewpoints further west.

Hiking Route Highlights

Grand Canyon

Revealing millions of years of geological history, the layered and massive Grand Canyon is a 3060 square mile canyon in Arizona. The canyon is 445.8 km long, up to 29.0 km wide and is over 1,829 m at its deepest point. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, the canyon is now one of the world’s top natural attractions, bringing about 5 million visitors to its rim every year. Indigenous people have inhabited the canyon for many years, some considering it to be a holy site.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get to Hopi Point?

You can either reach Hopi Point on the park’s free shuttles or you can hike along the Rim Trail to reach it on foot.

Can cars drive on Hermit Road?

You can drive private vehicles on Hermit Trail in the winter only. The rest of the year, you’ll need to use the park’s shuttle service.

What rim is Hopi Point on?

Hopi Point is on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Insider Hints for Hopi Point Hike

• You’ll need a pass to visit the Grand Canyon. Passes can be purchased ahead of time online or at the park gates.
• It can take a long time to get through the park gates during normal visiting hours, so we recommend planning to arrive a bit early.
• The park shuttles run frequently and consistently throughout the day and there’s no charge to use them.