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Shoshone Point Grand Canyon | The hidden gem you’ll almost miss

If you're looking for a more intimate Grand Canyon experience, Shoshone Point might just be the answer. Tucked away along Desert View Drive on the South Rim, this lesser-known overlook doesn’t show up on many maps, and that’s exactly why those in the know seek it out.

Reaching Shoshone Point requires a short, flat hike through ponderosa forest, ending in sweeping, crowd-free views across the canyon. It’s also the only location on the South Rim that can be reserved for private events (yes, people get married here!). The spot is simple with no guardrails or interpretive signs, just a natural stone monolith marking the point and the vast Grand Canyon beyond.

All you need to know about Shoshone Point

Shoshone Point's white isthmus along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Shoshone Point is part of the South Rim, located within Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona. It's named after the Shoshone people, whose ancestral lands stretch across parts of the American West.

This viewpoint faces north-northeast, offering unobstructed views of the Colorado River, Desert View Watchtower, and far across to the North Rim. Unlike popular overlooks like Mather or Yavapai Point, Shoshone requires a bit more effort to reach, just enough to keep it pleasantly uncrowded most of the time.

Shoshone Point Trail

Hiker photographing view at Shoshone Point, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona.

The trail to Shoshone Point isn’t really a trail; it’s an old dirt service road, flat and wide, leading you about 1 mile (1.6 km) each way through shaded ponderosa pines. As you get closer to the rim, the forest shifts to pinyon-juniper woodland. The hike is easy, with only about 100 feet of elevation gain, and takes 45 minutes to 1 hour round trip, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The road is unpaved and can be muddy in spring due to snowmelt, so wear appropriate shoes and stick to the path to preserve the area.

Keep in mind: this trail starts from an unmarked dirt pullout along Desert View Drive. There's no signage, so you’ll need to keep a sharp eye between mile markers 244 and 246, more on that below.

​More hiking trails in Grand Canyon

Views from Shoshone Point

Grand Canyon view from Shoshone Point with layered rock formations.

The view from Shoshone Point is classic Grand Canyon. You’ll see layers of red rock, sweeping north-facing canyon views, and if visibility is good, Desert View Watchtower on the eastern horizon. The Colorado River winds through the canyon below, and on clear days, you may catch glimpses of Wotan’s Throne, Vishnu Temple, and other iconic landmarks of the canyon’s rugged topography.

This is one of the few places where you can sit in complete stillness, uninterrupted, and feel the scale of the Grand Canyon settle in around you. The area also has a covered pavilion, picnic tables, grills, and a vault toilet, making it perfect for private events and group gatherings.

​Other popular viewpoints in Grand Canyon

Plan your visit

Arrowhead Rock at Shoshone Point overlooking the Grand Canyon.
  • The site is open for day use from sunrise to midnight.
  • Group reservations for events like weddings or reunions are available from May 1 to October 15 by permit only.
White SUV on highway for airport transfer service.

By car:

  • From Grand Canyon Visitor Center, head east on Desert View Drive (Highway 64).
  • The trailhead is unmarked, about 1.2 miles east of Yaki Point Road, or roughly 3 miles from the Visitor Center.
  • Look for a small dirt pullout on the north (canyon) side of the road between mile markers 244 and 246.

By shuttle or taxi:

  • The park’s shuttle buses do not stop at Shoshone Point.
  • If you’re without a car, taxi or rideshare from Grand Canyon Village is your best bet.
Woman sitting at Shoshone Point overlooking the Grand Canyon.
  • There are no guardrails at the overlook so exercise caution near the rim.
  • Do not block the gate or park off-road.
  • If the site is reserved for an event, please be respectful and consider visiting another viewpoint.
  • No water or electricity at the site. Make sure you bring your own supplies.

Frequently asked questions about the Shoshone Point

It’s located on the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park.

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