Shoshone Point
A gentle 2-mile trail through pine forests leads to breathtaking, unobstructed panoramic views of the Grand Canyon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Golden hour light paints the canyon
Shoshone Point
Best Time
Golden hour light paints the canyon
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A gentle 2-mile trail through pine forests leads to breathtaking, unobstructed panoramic views of the Grand Canyon.
"The Shoshone Point Trail is a comfortable walk to some of the most stunning, panoramic Grand Canyon views."
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking can be limited, especially during peak season. Arrive early or consider weekdays.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
The trail is easy, but good walking shoes are recommended for the 2-mile roundtrip. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Grand Canyon Views
End of Shoshone Point Trail
Unobstructed, sweeping vistas of the Grand Canyon's vastness. Perfect for sunrise or sunset.
Shoshone Point Trail
Trailhead near East Rim Drive
A leisurely 2-mile walk through fragrant pine forests leading to incredible viewpoints.
Private Event Space
Shoshone Point Pavilion
The only reservable spot in the park for weddings and private gatherings.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Reserve Your Spot for Events
Easy Access to Grand Views
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Insider Tips
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Shoshone Point, Grand Canyon NP, Arizona, USA
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking can be limited, especially during peak season. Arrive early or consider weekdays.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
The trail is easy, but good walking shoes are recommended for the 2-mile roundtrip. :athletic_shoe:
Grand Canyon South Rim
Hikes for non hikers
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
No facilities on the trail. Stay hydrated and fueled for the walk and views. :water_wave:
📸 Capture the Moment
The panoramic views are incredible for photos. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
Shoshone Point
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking can be limited, especially during peak season. Arrive early or consider weekdays.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
The trail is easy, but good walking shoes are recommended for the 2-mile roundtrip. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
No facilities on the trail. Stay hydrated and fueled for the walk and views. :water_wave:
📸 Capture the Moment
The panoramic views are incredible for photos. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
📧 Event Reservations
For private events, email grcapermitsmail@nps.gov well in advance. :email:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the comfortable, easy trail leading to stunning, panoramic Grand Canyon views. It's praised as a less crowded alternative to other viewpoints and a unique spot for private events. Some note the parking can be limited and the trail lacks facilities.
"Very comfortable trail without much hiking"
Asmita Dey
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Gianluca Paglino
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Al Rey
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shoshone Point is located on the East Rim Drive, about 20 miles east of Grand Canyon Village. You'll drive along Desert View Drive (AZ-64 E) and look for the unmarked dirt road entrance to Shoshone Point. Parking is available at the trailhead.
Yes, there is a parking area at the trailhead for the Shoshone Point Trail. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during busy times. Arriving early is recommended.
No, you cannot drive directly to the viewpoint. The Shoshone Point Trail is a 1-mile walk each way from the parking area to the rim. This helps preserve the natural beauty.
Shoshone Point is not serviced by the park's shuttle bus system. You will need to drive your own vehicle to access the trailhead.
The entrance is an unmarked dirt road off East Rim Drive. Keep an eye out for it about 20 miles east of Grand Canyon Village, past the turnoff for Desert View Watchtower.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no separate ticket required to visit Shoshone Point. Your standard Grand Canyon National Park entrance fee covers access to this area.
Shoshone Point is accessible during Grand Canyon National Park's general operating hours, which are typically from sunrise to sunset.
Yes, Shoshone Point is the only location in the park that can be reserved for private events like weddings or picnics. You must contact grcapermitsmail@nps.gov for reservations.
It is highly recommended to book your private event at Shoshone Point as far in advance as possible, as it is a popular and unique venue.
Yes, there is a permit fee associated with reserving Shoshone Point for private events. Contact the park's permit office for current pricing.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Shoshone Point Trail is a relatively flat, easy 1-mile walk through a pleasant pine forest. It's considered a very comfortable trail with minimal elevation change.
The walk to Shoshone Point and back is about 2 miles total. It typically takes 30-60 minutes roundtrip, depending on your pace and how long you spend enjoying the views.
There are no restrooms directly at the Shoshone Point viewpoint or along the trail. The nearest facilities are typically at Desert View or Grand Canyon Village.
Yes, picnicking is allowed at Shoshone Point. It's a popular spot for a relaxed meal with a view. For larger gatherings, reservations are required.
Absolutely! Shoshone Point offers stunning, unobstructed panoramic views of the Grand Canyon, making it a prime location for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's also worth noting that Shoshone Point is the only location in the park that can be reserved for private events. While this might not directly impact a family visiting for a day trip, it highlights the area's potential for special family gatherings like reunions or milestone celebrations, provided reservations are made far in advance.
🚶♀️ Casual Visitors & Photographers
Photographers will find Shoshone Point particularly rewarding. The wide-open vistas offer incredible opportunities for capturing the vastness and depth of the canyon, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The lack of major crowds compared to other viewpoints can also lead to more serene and unique photographic compositions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing the Shoshone Point Trail
While the walk itself is pleasant, the true reward lies at the end. The panoramic views from Shoshone Point are often described as breathtaking and less crowded than some of the more popular South Rim viewpoints. It's a fantastic spot for quiet contemplation and soaking in the immense scale of the Grand Canyon. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as there are no facilities along the trail or at the viewpoint itself.
Shoshone Point for Special Occasions
Planning an event here requires advance coordination. Interested parties must contact the park's permit office via email at grcapermitsmail@nps.gov to inquire about availability and reservation procedures. Due to its exclusivity and popularity, it's crucial to reach out well in advance of your desired date to secure this special venue. The permit fee ensures the preservation and dedicated use of this beautiful area for your event.
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