Mather Point

Vista point · Grand Canyon Village

Mather Point

Vista point · Grand Canyon Village

3

Rim Trail, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023

Photos

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Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null
Mather Point by null

Highlights

Mather Point at the South Rim is a can't-miss spot offering breathtaking canyon views that shine especially during sunrise and sunset, all just a short stroll from the visitor center.  

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Rim Trail, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023 Get directions

nps.gov

Information

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Rim Trail, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023 Get directions

+1 928 638 7875
nps.gov

Features

wheelchair accessible parking lot
wheelchair accessible entrance
parking private lot

Last updated

Jul 8, 2025

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@travelleisure

"The Grand Canyon offers a unique golden hour experience with its vast, layered rock formations that radiate golden exuberance as the sun sets." - Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca is an award-winning journalist and co-founder of Be a Travel Writer, an online course for the next generation of travel journalists. Her photos, videos, and words have appeare

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View Postcard for Mather Point
@travelleisure

"The Grand Canyon is known as a golden hour hotspot where the enormous canyon walls radiate golden exuberance at sunset. Recommended locations include the South Rim and Mather Point." - Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca is an award-winning journalist and co-founder of Be a Travel Writer, an online course for the next generation of travel journalists. Her photos, videos, and words have appeare

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View Postcard for Mather Point
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"Popular for sunrise and sunset views of the canyon's golden light." - Travel + Leisure Editors

12 Most Scenic Overlooks in U.S. National Parks
View Postcard for Mather Point

Nick G

Google
Perhaps the most iconic viewpoint of the Grand Canyon. Definitely get why some people say that. I honestly think this viewpoint gives you a bigger look at the canyon as a whole. Definitely cool to be able to see this and witness these amazing views. This viewpoint is within walking distance of the welcome center, so a nice walk around the viewpoint and then a nice stop at the gift shop

Diane Smith

Google
My once in a lifetime trip. I cried when I crested the walkway and saw it before me. I'm limited with too much walking. I use a walker. But this spot was perfect for me to do. I wish I would've been able to go to different spots. But we were limited on time, as we did this trip on our own and no itinerary. We just flew by the seats of our pants....lol. But it is a great spot to see it for the very first time.

Rachel Downs

Google
First time visiting. I was only passing through and went slightly off my path and it was so well worth it. Even though we are nearing the end of January and on this morning(sunrise) it was really cold, but I wouldn’t change a thing. Absolutely breath taking. Maybe one day I can come back and see it all.

Dominique “Domio” Gagnon

Google
One of the most incredible places I’ve ever been! Highly recommend going for sunrise for the stunning views and to beat the crowds. Was lucky enough to see a group of bighorn sheep and there are also some great birds you can spot like the western bluebird. I spent over 5 hours at the park and would have spent the entire day if time permitted. Well worth the $35 to enter the park and there are numerous other lookout spots close by such as the desert view watchtower that are a close drive within the park. I will absolutely be going back!

Damien LierOmen

Google
Perfect point to check out. Rich history and foundation to the south rim of the Grand Canyon. I say the safest point as well with rails and fencing. 5 minute walk from the visitor center n parking lot. Bring your camera...the view is breathtaking

Quita marie

Google
The Grand Canyon is an absolutely breathtaking experience! The views are beyond anything I could have imagined; the sheer vastness and depth of the canyon are awe-inspiring. Standing at the edge and looking out, I felt completely captivated by the natural beauty stretching as far as the eye can see. I’m so glad I was able to experience this remarkable place. There’s a peacefulness here that’s hard to describe—a deep, quiet stillness that makes you feel connected to something greater. The scenery is stunning at every turn, from the vibrant colors of the canyon walls to the incredible rock formations that seem almost otherworldly. Whether it’s sunrise, sunset, or even midday, each moment brings a unique beauty to the landscape. If you’re a nature lover or just looking for a place to disconnect and recharge, the Grand Canyon is truly an unforgettable destination. I can’t wait to return!

Krishna

Google
Mather Point is one of the most popular sunset viewpoints in the Grand Canyon, and for good reason! The sunset colors are absolutely breathtaking, offering panoramic views of the canyon’s vastness and sheer scale—it’s truly overwhelming in the best way. Standing at Mather Point and taking in the view is an amazing experience. The viewpoint is easily accessible with a short walk from the visitor center parking lot, or you can take the shuttle bus, which drops you nearby. From Mather Point, you can also walk to other viewpoints like Yavapai Point, making it a great starting spot for exploring. If you’re a fan of sunsets or sunrises, this destination is unforgettable. A must-visit for anyone heading to the Grand Canyon!

Ronald Mann

Google
Quick and easy hike (approx. 5-10 minutes). Also has food and restrooms available. Quick drive to Grand Canyon City area as well. I will visit that area next time. Took 45 minutes to get through the gate with a $35 fee. Apparently online prepaid options were suspended some time ago. Two hour drive from Flagstaff and totally worth a detour.

Travis T.

Yelp
This is a beautiful viewpoint to get a panoramic view of the Grand Canyon and a great introduction to the immensity of it. You can see a portion of the Colorado River and Phantom Ranch at the bottom. It is also a great spot for Sunrise and Sunset photos. Mather Point is a short walk from the visitor center and has plenty of parking nearby. It's the closest viewpoint to the southern entrance station and is a part of the Rim Trail. The downside is that this is a very popular viewing location and can get really crowded at times. Mather Point is named for Stephen Tyng Mather, the first director of the National Park Service.

Moto S.

Yelp
Mather(s) Point is where I went when I traveled to see the Grand Canyon. I originally was aiming for the South Rim, and thought that I was on the right road to there, but when I got inside the park past the ranger gatehouses I noticed it appeared the South Rim overlook had moved about 20 miles to the south of where I was now. Oh well, not a big deal. I had a great time at this overlook. The views are awe inspiring, and I can greatly recommend this location to everyone. I spent a couple of hours here looking and taking pics. It's a fairly short walk from the parking areas to the overlook, but they also run a shuttle bus, which may also go to other areas, that will take you back to the lots. Anyway, I had a great time, well worth the stop.

Charles R.

Yelp
We loved this spott. I recommend you come about an hour n half after sunset and just look up and you will see the Milky Way Appear. We saw countless shooting stars. We also came for a day to see the sunset, but you want to arrive early to get to the point to see it all.

Abhi S.

Yelp
First of all, I must tell you that my review is nothing compared to what this place and the view actually is. The view of the Grand Canyon from Mather Point is one of the best that you will ever see in your life. The peaks, the painting by the winds on the canyon walls throughout the millenia, the smell of the nature, the depth of the gorge, everything is from out of this world. You have to be here to realize the vastness, the depth and the beauty of this place. We arrived here during COVID times (a week ago) but almost no one was following the protocol. But the place is huge, so it's easy to keep distance. On the way there, you will pass through the beautiful roads, and will almost certainly see a cavalcade of cars stopped just to watch the majestic Elks. We were lucky to have seen them so up close. Remember, this place is pretty far off of the nearest eateries or gas stations, so be mindful of this. You might want to have water on yourself to stay hydrated as it can be hot and this place requires a loooot of walking. Overall, this was the fourth wonder of the world I saw and I can hands down tell you that it was the most beautiful one so far. It's worth it.

Shayla B.

Yelp
One of the most stunning viewpoints within Grand Canyon National Park! If you're visiting, you're almost bound to make a stop here. The views are literally breathtaking. Mather Point is located along the popular Rim Trail and provides sweeping views of the canyon. The viewpoint is named after Stephen Mather, the first director of the National Park Service and also one of the first advocates of Grand Canyon National Park. Mather Point is easily accessible since it's located right next to the Visitor Center. But with easy access comes large and busy crowds. This isn't a viewpoint that you'll be able to have all to yourself, but the views are still enticing nonetheless. This was definitely one of the most gorgeous views that I was able to witness while I visited the park. I can see why it's so popular; not only is it convenient, but this colorful view of the canyon is seriously jaw dropping.

John H.

Yelp
The views are great but there are so many other great spots. This section is under a mile from the Visitor Center along the Rim Trail, which is probably part of its popularity. No bathrooms nearby. You can see the sunset off to the trees and the light reflects off the canyon.

Yvette R.

Yelp
Great view for sunrise. Get there early and bundle up. You will find parking that early in the AM, but if you plan to leave and return you will NOT find the same parking. Recommend this as a starting point and use the shuttles.

Chris S.

Yelp
It's the Grand Canyon. Can you give any part of it less than five stars and still call yourself an American? It's awe inspiring and beautiful. If you haven't been there, go there immediately!

Ana P.

Yelp
I drove up to the main visitors center in the park but I got there so early they were not open (they open at 9 am). I decided to walk to this lookout location while waiting on the bus and it did not disappoint. This location was where I first saw my first good view of the grand canyon. I never been to this place and never knew how beautiful it really is up close and personal. Keep in mind that the park is open 24/7 so if you arrive early you will have plenty of parking to choose from but during peak times parking is a premium a the park. The park does offer guest parking down in the town next to the park and from there shuttles pick up visitors and drop them off at the visitors center for the day. Visitors can catch the shuttle and get dropped off back to their cars by the same bus they took before. There are many shuttles running through the park and park rangers always seemed happy to help me when I asked questions. There is paved walkways leading from the parking lot (1,2 and 3) to the visitors center and this lookout point. There are railings keeping visitors from falling over the edge of the canyon. The bathrooms are located right outside the visitors center and the bus hub here has 4 or 5 different routes available for visitors to take (some routes are seasonal and do not run during the winter season). There are plenty of benches to sit that have shade covering, at nigth this location has plenty of night lighting to see the way. AT the time of my visit (October 13, 2019) it was not that cold outside just a little windy. The sun had just come out from behind the peaks and it was amazing. This is just one spot out of many that give incredible views of the south rim of the canyon. Even though I was there super early there were plenty of people walking around. I highly suggest taking the bus and going to hermits point because that is one of the furthers points that are less visited. The trails over there are not paved, they are just gravel and have no railing holding people back from falling over the edge.

Drew B.

Yelp
I have to laugh a bit any time I see one of the world's great wonders -- natural or man-made -- on Yelp. I mean, c'mon, I'm not going to be able to convince someone to see, or avoid, something like the Grand Canyon. What I can do, however, is give recommendations on the best places to see the grandest of views. To me, two views stand out at the Grand Canyon: 1. The Desert View and Mary Jane Colter's stunning Watchtower and 2. Mather Point, an unforgettable vantage point at the South Rim of the Grand hole. Named for Stephen Tyng Mather, the first director of the National Park Service, you know you've reached Mather Point when you find a bronze plaque affixed to a rock: "He laid the foundation of the National Park Service, defining and establishing the policies under which its areas shall be developed and conserved unimpaired for future generations. There will never come an end to the good that he has done." It's a well-kept area with railings (not always the case!) and different levels of view. There are some large rocks on site that have become REAL popular, as one can stand on top, get some stellar photos, and also get a shot in one of those "king of the world" poses hovering over the Grand Canyon. From the location, you'll get expansive views of the South Rim, the Colorado River, Garden Creek, Tonto Trail, Pipe Creek, and, hell .... it's just a whole bunch of stunning, rust-red-rocked masterworks made by time. The area has an excellent gift shop/visitor's center, hiking trails, and short-cuts to other marvelous, unobstructed views of the Grand Canyon. And that's the Hole story.

Charles G.

Yelp
Simply beautiful a must see military and veterans get in free too with was an awesome surprise can't wait to go back and spend a few days there and explore more

Lane T.

Yelp
This was a great spot to view sunrise which I chose based on a personal recommendation and a photographer's blog. I got up around 5:15am to leave Tusayan for the park by 5:30am. I arrived around 5:45-am as there wasn't much traffic at that time and there was a lot of available parking. I was comfortable with: BOTTOM: thermal pants, athletic/hiking pants, wool socks, hiking boots TOP: two long-sleeved thermal shirts, a down puff coat, and a rain coat. I also wore a wool hat with ear flaps. **REI in Flagstaff is a great, and semi-final stop for snagging really quality last-minute gear that you'll likely find many uses for!** I was thankful to have prepared well as it was quite chilly waiting for the sun to rise. The only thing that could have made it more special would have been packing a nice hot thermos of coffee/chai. I did see one traveler enjoying a McDonald's sandwich and coffee at Mather Point! Bring your breakfast too if you feel like it:) The sun came up around 6:15am and with it a couple of Elk came onto Rim Trail which connects Mather Point to the Visitor Center, parking lots, etc. People kept respectful distances and took photos. The Elk seemed largely un-phased by their spectators. While the sun gradually lifted higher, I walked east along Rim Trail snapping photos on the way! An incredible opportunity -- and I think going for sunrise meant less crowd than during the day.

Louise S.

Yelp
An incredible site. Breathtaking. Once we parked, we started on day at the canyon from here. Be sure to dress warm and wear comfortable sneakers. You don't want to miss a minute of the views. Just when you think it couldn't get any more gorgeous you round a hill. I have to admit this was a vacation that the hubby picked and I am more of a beach person but it's not a place to be missed. You won't even realize how long you been walking before you are done and want to do it all over again.

Jessica R.

Yelp
Pretty ok view point. Short walk from the parking lot, not a hike. You can walk from here all the way to the village where the food spots are by following the south rim trail

Sarah V.

Yelp
Very busy spot. But definitely a must see. Great for pics especially on top of the front rock right as you walk up.