At the summit of Lower Khanjin Ri with Bibek and the porters
1 / 10

Point Sublime

4.6
·491k reviews·, United States

Experience the Grand Canyon's raw, unobstructed beauty from Point Sublime, a remote viewpoint offering unparalleled solitude and breathtaking vistas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Clear skies, mild temps

CrowdLow
Loading map...
At the summit of Lower Khanjin Ri with Bibek and the porters

Point Sublime

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Clear skies, mild temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the Grand Canyon's raw, unobstructed beauty from Point Sublime, a remote viewpoint offering unparalleled solitude and breathtaking vistas.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The drive is rough, but the views and solitude at Point Sublime are absolutely worth it."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Check Road Conditions

Confirm road status before driving; 4WD may be needed for rougher sections.

💧 Pack Essentials

Bring ample water, snacks, and a full gas tank. Services are nonexistent.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Vista

The Grand Vista

End of Point Sublime Road

Unobstructed, panoramic views of the Grand Canyon's vastness. A truly breathtaking and humbling sight.

The Journey Itself

The Journey Itself

Point Sublime Road

A scenic, unpaved drive offering a sense of adventure and isolation before reaching the viewpoint.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Road Conditions are Key

The drive to Point Sublime is a significant part of the experience. A basic SUV might handle washboard conditions, but rockier terrain requires 4WD. Check recent road reports before you go to avoid getting stuck or damaging your vehicle. Reddit

Plan for Solitude

Point Sublime offers unparalleled, remote views. Be prepared for limited services and cell reception. Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a full tank of gas. This is a destination for those seeking true wilderness. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Clear skies, mild temps
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Point Sublime Backpacking/Camping

🚗 Check Road Conditions

Confirm road status before driving; 4WD may be needed for rougher sections. Reddit

💧 Pack Essentials

Bring ample water, snacks, and a full gas tank. Services are nonexistent. Reddit

reddit.com

Has anyone driven the road to Point Sublime on the N Rim recently? How are conditions?

reddit.com

Point Sublime in early May

📵 Prepare for No Signal

Cell service is unreliable. Download offline maps. Reddit

🥾 Sturdy Footwear

Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the viewpoint area. Reddit

reddit.com

AWD to Point Sublime?

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Check Road Conditions

Confirm road status before driving; 4WD may be needed for rougher sections. Reddit

💧 Pack Essentials

Bring ample water, snacks, and a full gas tank. Services are nonexistent. Reddit

📵 Prepare for No Signal

Cell service is unreliable. Download offline maps. Reddit

🥾 Sturdy Footwear

Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the viewpoint area. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Point Sublime is lauded for its breathtaking, unobstructed Grand Canyon views and profound sense of solitude, making the challenging drive worthwhile for many. However, the rough road conditions and lack of amenities require significant preparation and can be a deterrent for some visitors.

What People Like

Incredible, vast views
Peaceful solitude
Adventurous drive

What People Dislike

Rough road conditions
Lack of facilities
Long drive time

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Point Sublime is accessed via an unpaved road off the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. The drive is approximately 26 miles one-way and can take 1.5-2 hours each way, depending on road conditions. Reddit

While some visitors have driven basic SUVs on washboard sections, rockier terrain often requires a high-clearance vehicle with 4WD. It's crucial to check recent road conditions before attempting the drive. Reddit

The road is generally open seasonally, typically from mid-May through mid-October, but can be affected by weather. Always check with the National Park Service for current closures and conditions. Reddit

Expect the drive to take at least 1.5 to 2 hours each way from the North Rim entrance, not including stops. The road is unpaved and can be slow-going. Reddit

It's not recommended. While possible in dry, good conditions for a basic SUV, a regular car is highly susceptible to damage from rocks and rough terrain. A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is ideal. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Point Sublime is located within Grand Canyon National Park, so you will need to pay the park entrance fee. No separate ticket is required for the viewpoint itself. Reddit

As of recent information, the entrance fee for Grand Canyon National Park is $35 per vehicle, valid for 7 days. Check the official NPS website for the most current pricing. Reddit

No, there are no additional fees beyond the standard Grand Canyon National Park entrance fee to access Point Sublime. Reddit

Yes, an America the Beautiful Pass is accepted for entry into Grand Canyon National Park, covering the entrance fee for Point Sublime. Reddit

Point Sublime itself does not have operating hours, but access is limited by the seasonal road opening and daylight hours. The park is generally open year-round, but the North Rim road closes in winter. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The primary activity is to admire the expansive, unobstructed views of the Grand Canyon. It's a place for quiet contemplation and photography. Reddit

Due to its remote location and challenging access, Point Sublime is generally much less crowded than other Grand Canyon viewpoints. You can often find solitude. Reddit

No, there are no visitor facilities, restrooms, or services at Point Sublime. Be prepared to be self-sufficient. Reddit

While the viewpoint area is relatively flat, there are no designated hiking trails directly from Point Sublime. The main 'hike' is the drive itself. Reddit

Bring plenty of water, snacks, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a camera, and a full tank of gas. A first-aid kit is also advisable. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise and sunset can be spectacular. Reddit

You can capture sweeping panoramic shots of the Grand Canyon, dramatic light and shadow play, and the rugged desert landscape. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness, but a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details within the canyon. Reddit

The natural beauty is immense, making it easy to get stunning shots. The main challenge is the drive to get there and managing the elements. Reddit

No, there are no specific photography restrictions at Point Sublime, beyond standard park regulations regarding drone usage and disturbing wildlife. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

🚗 Off-Road Enthusiasts & Adventurers

For those who love the journey as much as the destination, the drive to Point Sublime is a highlight. The unpaved road offers a genuine off-road experience that tests your vehicle and driving skills. It's crucial to have a high-clearance 4WD vehicle and to check recent road conditions before you depart. Reddit

Be prepared for a slow, bumpy ride that can take several hours round trip. Pack extra water, snacks, and ensure your gas tank is full. The reward is reaching a viewpoint that few others experience, offering a sense of accomplishment and unparalleled solitude.

📸 Photographers Seeking Unique Vistas

Point Sublime is a dream for photographers due to its unobstructed, panoramic views and the potential for dramatic lighting. The lack of crowds means you can set up your shots without interruption. Early morning and late afternoon are prime times for capturing the canyon's grandeur with soft, warm light. Reddit

Bring a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness and consider a telephoto lens for isolating details within the canyon walls. Remember to pack extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll likely be inspired to shoot extensively. The drive itself can also offer interesting photographic opportunities of the rugged landscape.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Adventurous Drive to Point Sublime

The journey to Point Sublime is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself. The road is unpaved, often described as a rough dirt track with washboard sections, rocks, and potential ruts. Visitors frequently discuss the road conditions on forums like Reddit, with advice varying based on recent weather and maintenance. A high-clearance vehicle, preferably with 4WD, is highly recommended to navigate the terrain safely and comfortably. Reddit

Planning is crucial: Before setting out, it's essential to check the latest road conditions with the Grand Canyon National Park Service. A basic SUV might suffice if the road is in good condition, but it's a gamble. Getting stuck or damaging your vehicle miles from any services can turn a scenic drive into a serious problem. Ensure your tires are in good condition and you have a spare. Reddit

This drive offers a sense of remoteness and adventure, setting the stage for the solitude you'll find at the viewpoint. It’s a true off-the-beaten-path experience for those willing to make the effort.

Experiencing Unparalleled Solitude

Point Sublime lives up to its name by offering some of the most secluded and expansive views of the Grand Canyon. Unlike the more accessible South Rim viewpoints, the challenging drive deters many visitors, leaving those who make it to Point Sublime with a profound sense of peace and isolation. This is a place to truly connect with the immensity of nature without the usual crowds. Reddit

What to expect: Visitors often describe the feeling of having the vast canyon all to themselves. The lack of facilities means you must be entirely self-sufficient. Bring all the water, food, and supplies you'll need for your visit. Cell service is virtually non-existent, so download offline maps and inform someone of your plans. Reddit

This destination is ideal for photographers seeking unique angles, nature lovers craving quiet contemplation, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle for a truly awe-inspiring experience. The reward for the effort is an unforgettable encounter with the raw beauty of the Grand Canyon.

You may also like

1 of 2