I liked the way this one lets you walk out along the top of a ridge to feel the Grand Canyon surround you from all sides. It was a convenient spot from the bus and a special view.
Trip Snapshot
Best Time to Visit
Sunrise & late‑day light (Dec–Feb for self‑drive; Mar–Nov via shuttle)
Open
Open now · Open 24 hours
Price Range
Free with park entrance pass
Time Needed
20–40 minutes (longer if walking the Rim Trail)
Parking
No summer parking; limited roadside parking Dec–Feb when Hermit Road is open to private vehicles
Ideal For
Shuttle stop, interpretive signs, memorial; nearest restrooms & water at Hopi Point (0.3 mi / 0.5 km west)
Beautiful view of Powell Point and the Grand Canyon! Short enough walk to the vista and monument. Sad to say, but all the views of the Grand Canyon look so similar, it's hard to differentiate one view from another.
Really great vantage point at the end by the memorial. There's no railings, just a short rock wall, so be careful. It makes for some outstanding photos of just you with the Grand Canyon in the background. I went here for the sunset and the sky turned rainbow colored after the sun went down.The memorial is nice and elevated so gives you some good vantage points. And there is also a view of the projected hotel that was supposed to be built in the sixties, but they scrapped that idea.There is not very much room to park. park. There's two big spots where it's for buses only so get here early to take in the sunset or sunrise.
Nice viewing point as the rest! Many to see if your driving down this road, many give you a little different perspective of it!
Another great point on the South Rim Trail towards Hermit's Rest. This viewpoint is accessible both by the walking path and by bus, so it's very easy to reach. However, I suggest walking here to enjoy all this Nature beauty. Great spot to take (safely) pictures on the edge of the cliff.
Why Visit Powell Point
Powell Point is a dramatic promontory on the South Rim’s Hermit Road that honors explorer John Wesley Powell. From its 7,064-ft (2,153 m) perch you’ll enjoy sweeping east‑to‑west canyon vistas and glimpses of the Colorado River far below.
Highlights
Granite Powell Memorial (1915) commemorating the 1869 & 1871‑72 river expeditions
Nearly 270° panorama of the Inner Canyon, including Isis Temple and Cheops Pyramid
Easy access from the free Red Route shuttle or the paved Rim Trail
Excellent foreground rock layers for sunrise photography
Description
Powell Point juts into the canyon between Maricopa and Hopi Points, offering an unobstructed look down Bright Angel Canyon and across to the North Rim’s temples. A short, level spur from the Rim Trail leads to the overlook and its stone memorial. Benches and low walls provide safe seating while you absorb the multi‑hued cliffs and ever‑changing light.
History
The point is named for Major John Wesley Powell, the one‑armed Civil War veteran who led the first documented boat journey through Grand Canyon in 1869.
The granite memorial, dedicated on September 3, 1915, lists the crew members of Powell’s 1869 and 1871‑72 expeditions and was the site of the National Park Service’s formal inauguration in 1919.
Features
Powell Memorial & interpretive panels
Paved overlook with guardrails
Benches & low stone seating
Nearby Rim Trail connections (0.3 mi / 0.5 km to both Maricopa & Hopi Points)
Seasonal shuttle stop (Hermits Rest “Red Route”)
Getting There
From Grand Canyon Visitor Center or Grand Canyon Village, board the free Hermits Rest (Red Route) Shuttle and exit at Powell Point (third stop westbound). In December–February, private vehicles may drive Hermit Road; follow signs west from Village Historic District for 1.5 mi (2.4 km) to roadside parking near the point.
Insider Tips
Local advice to help you make the most of your visit.
01Good to know
Arrive 30 minutes before sunrise for pastel canyon tones and fewer crowds than Hopi Point.
02Be prepared
Use the memorial as a foreground subject for wide‑angle photos.
03Local tip
Winter sunsets can be spectacular
and you can drive yourself. Bring traction devices if roads are icy.
04Save time
Carry water; the nearest fountain is at Hopi Point.
05Stay connected
Night‑sky photographers will find minimal light pollution; the paved plaza is a stable tripod base.
06Good to know
Combine Powell Point with a leisurely 2.5-mi (4 km) shuttle‑assisted walk from Trailview Overlook to Hopi Point.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Powell Point from Grand Canyon Village?
About 1.5 miles (2.4 km) west of the Village along Hermit Road.
Can I drive to Powell Point year‑round?
Private vehicles are allowed only in December–February; the rest of the year you must use the free shuttle, walk, or bike.
Is the overlook wheelchair accessible?
Yes. A paved, gently‑sloped path connects the shuttle stop to the memorial and rim railing.
Are there restrooms or water at Powell Point?
No. The closest facilities are 0.3 mile (0.5 km) west at Hopi Point.
Can I see the Colorado River from Powell Point?
You’ll glimpse sections of the river about 3,000 ft (915 m) below, especially toward the northwest.
Which is better for sunset—Powell Point or Hopi Point?
Hopi Point offers a wider western view, but Powell Point is less crowded and has excellent foreground rock layers for photography.
