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Lookout · Grand Canyon Village, Arizona
Mather Point
The most visited viewpoint on the South Rim, next to the visitor center, offering wide views across the canyon, the rock temples and a stretch of the Bright Angel Trail.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Mather Point
Mather Point sits on a rock outcrop that juts over the canyon, a few minutes’ walk from the Grand Canyon visitor center. For many visitors it is the first view of the canyon, so it often gets crowded at midday. The name honors Stephen Mather, the first director of the National Park Service.
From the railings, the view opens to the north and east: bands of red, gray and white rock, isolated peaks geologists call temples, such as Vishnu Temple, and, in the distance, the North Rim about 16 km in a straight line. The Colorado River is hardly visible from here; at a point to the right you can spot a section of it down below.
The visitor center has exhibits, a park film and information on trails and weather. Park shuttles depart from there to the village and the eastern viewpoints, and a flat section of the Rim Trail starts here and continues along the rim to Yavapai Point and Grand Canyon Village.
At sunrise, light strikes the walls from the side and the canyon’s colors change in minutes.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 minutes to an hour, plus the visitor center.
Best time
At sunrise, when light enhances the layers and there are fewer people. The viewpoint tends to be crowded at midday.
How to get there
About a 400-meter walk from the visitor center, with large parking and a park shuttle stop.
Tip
To avoid the crowds, walk a few minutes along the Rim Trail in either direction: the view continues and space opens up.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mather Point
Can you see the Colorado River from Mather Point?
Only a little. A small stretch of the river appears far below to the right of the overlook. Overlooks on Hermit Road and at Desert View show the river more clearly.
Is Mather Point good for sunrise?
Yes, it’s one of the most popular overlooks for sunrise, close to the visitor center parking. Arrive before dawn to get a spot on the rim wall.
Is Mather Point wheelchair accessible?
The path from the visitor center is paved and the overlook has accessible sections. Check the park website for detailed accessibility information.