Cape Final Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Fall Colors · Geological Significance · Views · Wildflowers

This is an out-and-back trail with a fantastically scenic viewpoint over the Grand Canyon North Rim. Of all the wonderful overlooks along the Cape Royal Road, the Cape Final Trail is be the highlight. The combination of a pleasant forest trail and killer views at the end are hard to beat.

This trail is accessible only when the North Rim is open, which is typically mid-May to mid-October.

Generally smooth trail surface (a little eroded at the start), more shade on this trail that you'll find elsewhere.

From the parking lot, head up the wide packed dirt path up a moderate incline. Pass through a pleasantly shaded forest, stopping at any of the rock outcroppings along the way to take in the unique northern canyon views. Travel through an area with evidence of past wildfires. Enter a ravine and then arrive at the hugely scenic cliff face. Some folks scramble a bit further up the rocks to reach the best view, but take care near the edge! With a good topo map, you should be able to identify Vishnu Temple, the Vermilion Cliffs and Navajo Mountain, the Colorado River and the Little Colorado River in this panorama.

Ponderosa pine, aspen, oak, cactus. Kaibab squirrel (white tail).