Bright Angel Point
Grand Canyon National Park, North Rim, Arizona
Bright Angel Point is the most popular viewpoint on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, offering views of Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim and Roaring Springs some 3,000 feet (914 meters) below. The easy paved Bright Angel Point trail leads to the spot, with panoramic views of Grand Canyon National Park unfolding along the way.
While the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is more easily accessible, the North Rim affords much better views, as it’s more than 1,000 feet (305 meters) higher in elevation. According to the National Park Service, only 10 percent of Grand Canyon visitors make it to this less-traveled area. Even though Bright Angel Point isn’t on the well-trodden South Rim route, it still features in some longer tours of the national park. Many day tours depart from Sedona and Flagstaff.
Bright Angel Point is a must-visit for photographers and those looking to get off the beaten path.
Wear sturdy shoes; the walk to Bright Angel Point, while short, is steep at points.
Remember that walking at this elevation can be strenuous.
Public restrooms are available behind the North Rim Visitor Center.
The Bright Angel Point trail is steep with drop-offs and stairs, and is not wheelchair accessible.
The quarter-mile (0.4 kilometer) paved trail to Bright Angel Point begins just behind the Grand Canyon Lodge near the North Rim parking area.
Due to its higher elevation, the North Rim (and Bright Angel Point) have a shorter season than the rest of the park; the entire North Rim area closes for the winter (December 2 to May 14). Plan to visit around sunrise or sunset for the best photos of the canyon below.
Although in the same national park, the two rims of the Grand Canyon aren’t the easiest to travel between. Hikers can make the 21-mile (34-kilometer) trek, while the drive covers 220 miles (354 kilometers).
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!