The Abyss
A dramatic viewpoint on the South Rim, The Abyss offers breathtaking, sheer drops into the Grand Canyon's depths, often with fewer crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, softer light
The Abyss
Best Time
Fewer crowds, softer light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic viewpoint on the South Rim, The Abyss offers breathtaking, sheer drops into the Grand Canyon's depths, often with fewer crowds.
"The Abyss offers a unique sense of depth and is a less crowded gem on the Hermit's Rest Route."
Explore Beyond the Bus Stop
Don't just stay by the bus stop! The best views are often found by exploring left and right along the rim.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for navigating the terrain and staying safe near the edge.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Sheer Drop
Canyon Rim
Experience the dizzying, vertical descent into the canyon's depths. A true testament to nature's power.
Rim Trail Access
Adjacent to viewpoint
Connect to the scenic Rim Trail for a leisurely stroll with continuous, stunning canyon vistas.
Wildlife Spotting
Surrounding area
Keep an eye out for White-Throated Swifts dancing in the wind and other fascinating flora and fauna.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Edge Safely
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
The Abyss
Explore Beyond the Bus Stop
Don't just stay by the bus stop! The best views are often found by exploring left and right along the rim.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for navigating the terrain and staying safe near the edge.
Grand Canyon village, travel tips.
How to get the best experience out of the grand canyon?
Stay Hydrated
The desert sun is intense. Carry plenty of water, especially if you plan to walk along the Rim Trail.
Sun Protection is Key
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are a must to protect yourself from the strong sun.
How to spend a day at the South Rim
Tips
from all over the internet
Explore Beyond the Bus Stop
Don't just stay by the bus stop! The best views are often found by exploring left and right along the rim.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for navigating the terrain and staying safe near the edge.
Stay Hydrated
The desert sun is intense. Carry plenty of water, especially if you plan to walk along the Rim Trail.
Sun Protection is Key
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are a must to protect yourself from the strong sun.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate The Abyss for its less crowded atmosphere compared to other Grand Canyon viewpoints and its dramatic, sheer drop. While some find the views similar to other stops, the unique sense of depth and the presence of ravens add to its appeal. The accessibility via the Hermit's Rest shuttle is a major plus for exploring the South Rim.
"This is one of our favorite stops not necessarily for the views, but it seems not to be as crowded as some of the larger viewing areas. Also, you are right at the edge of a steep canyon wall, which you need to be careful not to slip. You will also have direct access to the Rim Trail that follows the canyon’s edge all the way out to Hermit Rest. From March to November, this viewpoint is accessible using the Park’s Shuttle Bus Service via Desert View Drive, which runs along the South Rim. There are no restrooms at this stop."
Thomas B
"Great if your coming from Vegas or going to Vegas to stop and take pictures at the rim. I did the hike last time so we just enjoyed the view and took pictures the second visit. They have an ice cream shop at the rim and gift shop,and bathrooms. If you are going to do activities on the canyon it's like a week stay lol maybe more and at the bottom have a guide it's rough down there. That's all by reservation rafting on the river and camping."
J
"A must see stop on the Red Route for Hermits Rest. Take the Red Route Bus and make sure to get off at The Abyss. Most people make the mistake of not exploring the area to the left and right of the bus stop. Do not do this the best views are to the right and left of the bus stop location. Get off the bus take some time to absorb all the beauty here. Great views, flora and fauna abound. Great place to watch the White Throated Swift's dancing in the wind."
Jaco
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Abyss is accessible via the Hermit's Rest Route (Red Route) shuttle bus service from March to November. It's a must-see stop on this scenic drive.
During the shuttle season (March to November), private vehicles are not permitted on the Hermit's Rest Road. You must use the park's shuttle bus.
The Abyss is located on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, along the Hermit's Rest Route.
Get off the shuttle bus and take your time to absorb the immense beauty. Explore the areas to the left and right of the bus stop for the most dramatic perspectives.
While the shuttle bus is accessible, the immediate area around the viewpoint might have uneven terrain. Check with park rangers for the most current accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Grand Canyon National Park requires a valid park pass. The Abyss viewpoint itself is free to access once inside the park.
The Abyss is accessible whenever the park is open. However, the shuttle bus service has specific operating hours, which vary seasonally. Check the NPS website for current shuttle times.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Grand Canyon National Park. You can purchase passes online or at the park entrance stations.
The Hermit's Rest Route shuttle bus is free to use with your park entrance pass. No separate ticket is required.
Currently, there are no timed entry requirements specifically for The Abyss viewpoint. However, park-wide entry policies can change, so it's always best to check the official NPS website before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, with softer shadows and warmer hues. Golden hour can be particularly stunning.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the canyon. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or wildlife. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
The most dramatic views are often found by venturing slightly left and right of the main shuttle bus stop. Experiment with different angles to capture the sheer scale.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited within Grand Canyon National Park to protect wildlife and visitor experience.
The intense sunlight can create harsh shadows and overexposure. Using a polarizing filter can help manage glare and enhance colors. Be mindful of the sheer drop when composing shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food services directly at The Abyss viewpoint. You'll need to bring your own snacks or plan to eat at other locations along the Hermit's Rest Route or in Grand Canyon Village.
There are no restrooms at The Abyss viewpoint itself. The nearest facilities are typically found at shuttle bus stops further along the Hermit's Rest Route or at Grand Canyon Village.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can enjoy a packed lunch with a view, provided you pack out all your trash. Remember to be mindful of the sensitive environment.
Grand Canyon Village offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafeterias to sit-down restaurants. Some popular choices include El Tovar Dining Room and Maswik Food Court.
While not directly at The Abyss, there is an ice cream shop mentioned at a nearby rim location, possibly in Grand Canyon Village or a stop further along the route.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities are limited at this specific stop.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the immense scale of the canyon, and consider a telephoto lens for isolating details or wildlife. A tripod can be invaluable for low-light conditions or capturing the subtle textures of the rock formations.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Walkers
Ensure you wear comfortable, sturdy footwear as the trail, while paved, can have some uneven sections and inclines.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Hermit's Rest Route
Planning your shuttle journey is key to maximizing your experience. The Red Route shuttle typically runs every 15-30 minutes, depending on the season. It's advisable to grab a shuttle map and plan which viewpoints you want to prioritize. Some travelers suggest starting early to avoid the largest crowds and enjoying the quieter morning hours.
While The Abyss is a standout, don't overlook other stops like Mohave Point or Pima Point, which offer equally stunning, though different, vistas. The Rim Trail also connects many of these viewpoints, offering opportunities for short walks or longer hikes between stops.
Safety at The Abyss
Stick to marked paths and designated viewing areas. The terrain can be uneven, and loose rocks are a possibility. Wearing sturdy, closed-toe footwear is highly recommended to prevent slips and provide stability.
While the views are awe-inspiring, it's essential to maintain situational awareness. Avoid distractions like excessive phone use when near the rim. The beauty of The Abyss is best appreciated with a mindful and respectful approach to safety, ensuring everyone can enjoy its grandeur without incident.
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