Moran Point Grand Canyon
Moran Point offers breathtaking, expansive views of the Grand Canyon's ancient rock layers and the Colorado River, especially stunning at sunset.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Moran Point Grand Canyon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Moran Point offers breathtaking, expansive views of the Grand Canyon's ancient rock layers and the Colorado River, especially stunning at sunset.
"This viewpoint offers a magnificent view of the Grand Canyon and has several viewing areas for a stunning view. "
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be limited, especially for RVs. Arrive early or be prepared to wait.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond Pavement
Venture slightly off the main walkways for unique perspectives and photo ops.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Canyon Vistas
South Rim, Desert View Drive
Experience breathtaking, expansive views of the Grand Canyon's ancient rock layers and the winding Colorado River.
Colorado River Glimpse
Moran Point overlook
Catch a rare and stunning view of the mighty Colorado River carving its path through the canyon depths.
Sunset Spectacle
Moran Point overlook
Witness the canyon walls ignite with color as the sun dips below the horizon, creating a magical light show.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Moran Point
Navigating Desert View Drive
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Advice for visiting Grand Canyon
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be limited, especially for RVs. Arrive early or be prepared to wait.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond Pavement
Venture slightly off the main walkways for unique perspectives and photo ops.
How to get the best experience out of the grand canyon?
Grand Canyon First Timer
💧 No Restrooms Here
Plan accordingly; restrooms are available at nearby viewpoints like Grandview Point.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting and stunning photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be limited, especially for RVs. Arrive early or be prepared to wait.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond Pavement
Venture slightly off the main walkways for unique perspectives and photo ops.
💧 No Restrooms Here
Plan accordingly; restrooms are available at nearby viewpoints like Grandview Point.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting and stunning photos.
🗺️ Scenic Drive Stops
Don't rush Desert View Drive; stop at multiple viewpoints for varied canyon perspectives.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Moran Point for its magnificent and expansive Grand Canyon views, often highlighting the visible Colorado River and the stunning sunset potential. While parking can be a challenge, the opportunity to explore slightly off the main path and the sheer awe-inspiring scale of the landscape make it a highly recommended stop along Desert View Drive.
"This lookout area was a bit foggy when we went, but we could still make out plenty of great views. Actually, the way the fog moved itself was pretty cool. As with most of the lookout points, there was enough parking, and there were walkways, and you could get off the walkways as well and explore."
Justin Buzzard
"This viewpoint offers a magnificent view of the Grand Canyon and has several viewing areas including taking the trail for a short distance for even a closer look at this marvel of nature. Just a short distance from the parking lot, you will walk through a small teardrop park area before reaching the viewing area for a stunning view. There are several recycling bins in the parking lot but there are no restrooms at this location. The parking lot is limited with only a few spaces for oversized vehicles or small RVs. The viewpoint is open 24 hours, but no overnight camping or fires are allowed."
Thomas B
"Almost skipped this viewpoint but happy we didn’t. Another amazing view of the canyon. I honestly don’t think you can go wrong with any of the viewpoints. This viewpoint also has a good view of the Colorado River flowing. Took some nice photos here and had a nice view from the sun setting"
Nick G
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Moran Point is located along Desert View Drive on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. You can access it by car. If you're entering from the East Entrance, it's one of the first major viewpoints you'll encounter. If coming from Grand Canyon Village, drive east along Desert View Drive.
Yes, Desert View Drive is generally open year-round, but it's always a good idea to check the official Grand Canyon National Park website for any temporary closures due to weather or road maintenance.
The park's shuttle bus system primarily serves the Village area and Hermit Road. Desert View Drive is typically accessed by private vehicle.
Many visitors recommend entering the South Rim from the east and working your way west towards Grand Canyon Village, or vice versa, to catch the best light at different viewpoints like Moran Point.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Grand Canyon National Park, which covers access to all areas, including Desert View Drive and Moran Point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Moran Point is within Grand Canyon National Park, so you will need a valid park entrance pass to access it. Passes can be purchased at the park entrance stations.
Moran Point itself is an overlook and is accessible 24 hours a day. However, the park roads and facilities have specific operating hours, and it's best to visit during daylight for the best views.
Park entrance passes can be purchased upon arrival at any of the park's entrance stations. It's advisable to have cash or card ready.
Grand Canyon National Park offers various passes, including annual passes and lifetime passes for seniors and military personnel. Check the NPS website for details.
Park entrance fees are generally non-refundable, regardless of weather conditions. The Grand Canyon is a natural wonder that can be appreciated in various weather.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography at Moran Point. The soft, warm light enhances the canyon's textures and colors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive vistas. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details within the canyon. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
While the main overlook provides excellent views, exploring the paved paths and short trails around Moran Point can reveal unique angles and compositions.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited within Grand Canyon National Park to protect wildlife and visitor experience.
The Colorado River is visible from Moran Point, especially during certain times of day when the light hits it just right. Look for viewpoints that offer a clear line of sight down into the canyon.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, Moran Point itself does not have any food services. You'll need to bring your own snacks and drinks or plan to eat at the lodges or general stores located in Grand Canyon Village or Desert View.
The closest dining options are at Desert View Watchtower, about a 10-15 minute drive east, or further west towards Grand Canyon Village, which has several restaurants and cafeterias.
While there are no designated picnic tables at Moran Point, you can enjoy a picnic in your car or find a spot along the rim trail. Remember to pack out all trash.
Dining options range from casual cafeterias and delis to more formal sit-down restaurants, offering a variety of American cuisine.
Yes, there are general stores in Grand Canyon Village and at Desert View where you can purchase snacks, drinks, and basic groceries.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making it a stop on your drive along Desert View Drive. The drive itself can be an adventure, with opportunities to pull over at various points. Keep the visit engaging by turning it into a 'spot the difference' game between different viewpoints. The educational aspect of the canyon's geology can also be a fun learning experience for older children.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
While the main overlook is popular, explore the adjacent rim trail for unique angles. Be mindful of other visitors and practice good photography etiquette. Remember that drone photography is prohibited within the park. The dynamic light and shadow play across the canyon walls throughout the day offer continuous opportunities for stunning shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Story of Moran Point
From Moran Point, you can also observe the Colorado River, the powerful force that carved this magnificent chasm over millions of years. The river appears as a thin ribbon from this vantage point, a testament to its relentless erosive power. The sheer scale and depth of the canyon visible here are awe-inspiring, providing a profound sense of the Earth's dynamic past. It's a place that truly makes you feel small in the grand scheme of geological time.
When visiting, take a moment to appreciate the different rock layers and their unique characteristics. Each band of color and texture represents a different era and environment. Understanding the geological significance enhances the visual experience, transforming a beautiful view into an educational journey through deep time.
Experiencing Moran Point: Beyond the Overlook
Remember that Moran Point is just one of many viewpoints along the scenic Desert View Drive. Each stop offers a slightly different angle and composition of the Grand Canyon. Many visitors recommend entering the park from the east and making Moran Point one of your first stops, or visiting it as part of a westward journey towards Grand Canyon Village. This allows you to experience the canyon's grandeur progressively. Don't feel pressured to see everything from one spot; the drive itself is part of the adventure.
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