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Yaki Point

4.9
·2k reviews·Grand Canyon Village, United States

Remote lookout on the South Rim, accessible by shuttle, offering spectacular sunrise and sunset views of the Grand Canyon.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Beat the crowds for sunrise

CrowdLow
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Just before the downpour came

Yaki Point

Best Time

Early morning

Beat the crowds for sunrise

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Remote lookout on the South Rim, accessible by shuttle, offering spectacular sunrise and sunset views of the Grand Canyon.

4.9
(2k reviews)

"Amazing location to watch the sunrise over the Grand Canyon! A must see!!"

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TIP

🚗 Shuttle is Key

No private cars allowed! Use the free Orange Route shuttle. Arrive early for the best seats.

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Bring your camera! Yaki Point offers incredible angles for sunrise & sunset shots.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunrise Spectacle

Sunrise Spectacle

Yaki Point

Witness the Grand Canyon awaken in a symphony of color. An unforgettable start to your day.

Sunset Serenity

Sunset Serenity

Yaki Point

Watch the canyon glow as the sun dips below the horizon. A truly magical and peaceful experience.

Panoramic South Rim Views

Panoramic South Rim Views

Yaki Point

Expansive vistas of the Grand Canyon's vastness. Perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.

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Planning Your Visit

Accessing Yaki Point

Yaki Point is only accessible via the free park shuttle bus (Orange Route) or by bicycle. Private vehicles are not permitted, so plan your transport accordingly to avoid disappointment. Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially for sunrise or sunset.

Safety First at Yaki Point

While the views are breathtaking, there are limited guardrails. Exercise extreme caution, especially when taking photos or with children. Stay on marked paths and be aware of your surroundings to prevent accidents.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Beat the crowds for sunrise
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for sunset
Crowd
Medium
When
Mid-day
Why
Fewer crowds, but less dramatic light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Grand Canyon visit

🚗 Shuttle is Key

No private cars allowed! Use the free Orange Route shuttle. Arrive early for the best seats. Reddit

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Bring your camera! Yaki Point offers incredible angles for sunrise & sunset shots. Reddit

reddit.com

Full day at Grand Canyon

reddit.com

5 hours at the grand canyon

⚠️ Safety First!

Limited guardrails. Be cautious, especially with kids. Stay on paths. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Rim Trail

Enjoy a scenic walk along the South Rim Trail from Yaki Point. Reddit

reddit.com

Advice For First Time Travelers?

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Shuttle is Key

No private cars allowed! Use the free Orange Route shuttle. Arrive early for the best seats. Reddit

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Bring your camera! Yaki Point offers incredible angles for sunrise & sunset shots. Reddit

⚠️ Safety First!

Limited guardrails. Be cautious, especially with kids. Stay on paths. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Rim Trail

Enjoy a scenic walk along the South Rim Trail from Yaki Point. Reddit

💧 Pack Water

Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Restrooms are available. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Yaki Point for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset views, calling it a 'must-see' and 'amazing.' The panoramic vistas are a major draw, offering incredible photo opportunities. However, many caution about the lack of guardrails, urging visitors to be extremely careful, especially when taking selfies. Access via shuttle bus is noted as convenient but requires planning to avoid crowds.

"Breathtaking views. Be careful when taking selfies because there are no guard rails except for a few spots and people have been known to have accidentally fallen off when taking selfies. Keep toddlers on a short physical leash if possible"

Siamak Manzarpour

"It is one of the great views which is only available through the Shuttle Tours. It has wonderful options for your camera in this quiet and calming point. A must see!!"

James Balogh

"Amazing location to watch the sunrise over the Grand Canyon! Just be aware that you can’t drive your own vehicle here. There are a couple of pull offs that you can park at, but you will have to walk approximately 1.2 miles up a very slight incline to get to Yaki point.

There is a nice trail that follows the southern rim with plenty of good photo opportunities. No guard rails here though so be careful!"

Ryan Wallace

What People Like

Breathtaking sunrise/sunset
Panoramic canyon views
Great photo opportunities

What People Dislike

Lack of guardrails
Crowds during peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Yaki Point is exclusively accessible via the free Grand Canyon National Park shuttle bus system. Take the Orange Route shuttle, which departs from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center. Private vehicles are not allowed to drive to Yaki Point. Reddit

No, private vehicles are prohibited at Yaki Point. The only ways to access it are by the park's shuttle bus or by bicycle. Reddit

While you cannot drive directly to Yaki Point, there are parking lots available at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, where you can catch the shuttle bus. Reddit

The shuttle ride from the Visitor Center to Yaki Point is relatively short, typically around 10-15 minutes, depending on stops. Reddit

Yes, Yaki Point is accessible by bicycle. The paved trail along the South Rim offers a scenic route for cyclists. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yaki Point is located within Grand Canyon National Park. You will need a valid park entrance pass to enter the park. The shuttle bus service to Yaki Point is free once inside the park. Reddit

Yaki Point itself is an open viewpoint. However, access via the shuttle bus is seasonal and has specific operating hours. It's best to check the official Grand Canyon National Park website for the current shuttle schedule. Reddit

There is no separate fee for Yaki Point. The standard Grand Canyon National Park entrance fee applies. Reddit

To avoid crowds, aim for early morning for sunrise or very late afternoon for sunset. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Reddit

There are no specific restrictions on photography at Yaki Point, but always be mindful of safety and do not venture into unsafe areas for a photo. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography at Yaki Point. The canyon walls glow with warm hues during these times. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the canyon. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions during sunrise/sunset. Reddit

From Yaki Point, you can see parts of the canyon that reveal the immense scale, but direct, clear views of the Colorado River itself might be limited compared to other viewpoints. Reddit

The most critical safety consideration is the lack of guardrails in many areas. Photographers should maintain a safe distance from the edge and never compromise safety for a shot. Reddit

Yes, you can take selfies, but extreme caution is advised. Many reviewers mention the danger of falling while taking selfies due to the lack of railings. Reddit

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

Yaki Point has restrooms available for visitors. There are also some pull-off areas for parking if you are cycling or walking. Reddit

The shuttle bus is generally accessible. The viewpoint itself is relatively flat, but the paved trail can have some gentle inclines. Check with the park for specific accessibility details. Reddit

Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully enjoy the views, take photos, and perhaps walk a portion of the Rim Trail. If you're there for sunrise or sunset, factor in travel time and waiting. Reddit

Yaki Point is a stop on the South Rim Trail, a paved, relatively flat path that allows you to walk to other viewpoints. It's not a strenuous hike but offers beautiful scenery. Reddit

Dress in layers, as temperatures can change quickly. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Yaki Point with children requires extra vigilance due to the lack of guardrails. Keep a close eye on little ones and consider using a stroller or carrier for very young children. The paved South Rim Trail offers a relatively easy walk, making it manageable for families. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities are limited to restrooms. Arriving early via the shuttle can help avoid the busiest times, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone. Reddit

While the sheer scale of the canyon is awe-inspiring for all ages, emphasize the importance of staying safe and on marked paths. The shuttle ride itself can be an adventure for kids. Remember to bring layers of clothing, as the weather can change quickly at the rim.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Yaki Point is a prime location for capturing the iconic Grand Canyon landscapes, particularly during sunrise and sunset. The golden hour light paints the canyon walls in spectacular hues, offering unparalleled photographic opportunities. A wide-angle lens is recommended to capture the immense scale, while a telephoto lens can help isolate interesting geological features. Reddit

To maximize your photography experience, plan to take the shuttle early. This allows you to scout the best angles and set up your gear before the main crowds arrive. Be mindful of the safety warnings regarding the lack of guardrails, and always prioritize a secure position for your tripod and yourself. The South Rim Trail offers various perspectives, so take time to explore the immediate vicinity for unique shots.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Yaki Point Shuttle Experience

Accessing Yaki Point is an integral part of the experience, as private vehicles are not allowed. The Orange Route shuttle is your key to reaching this stunning viewpoint. It operates from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center and is a free service provided by the park. Many visitors recommend arriving early, especially for sunrise or sunset, to ensure a good spot on the shuttle and at the viewpoint itself. One reviewer noted they were 'nearly alone' by arriving early and skipping the visitor center crowds, heading straight for the shuttle. Reddit

This shuttle system not only manages traffic but also preserves the tranquility of the viewpoints. The ride itself offers glimpses of the surrounding landscape, building anticipation for the grand reveal at Yaki Point. It's a practical and eco-friendly way to explore the South Rim, allowing you to focus on the natural beauty rather than parking hassles. Reddit

Safety and Photography at the Edge

Yaki Point offers breathtaking views, but this comes with a crucial safety warning: limited guardrails. Several reviews highlight the danger of falling, particularly when people are engrossed in taking selfies. It's strongly advised to be extremely cautious and maintain a safe distance from the edge at all times. For those with young children, keeping them on a 'short physical leash' is a practical suggestion from one reviewer to ensure their safety. Reddit

For photographers, Yaki Point is a dream, especially during sunrise and sunset when the canyon walls are bathed in warm, dramatic light. While the expansive vistas are incredible, remember that safety should always be the priority. Avoid risky maneuvers for the perfect shot. Instead, focus on the stunning natural beauty from secure vantage points. A tripod can be beneficial for capturing the best of the low-light conditions. Reddit

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