Rim Trail — Bright Angel Lodge to Hopi Point
A scenic western rim walk past Trailview, Maricopa and Powell Points to the sunset viewpoint at Hopi Point.
Route overview
Follow the Rim Trail west past Trailview Overlook, Maricopa Point and Powell Point to Hopi Point.
West of Bright Angel Lodge the Rim Trail becomes quieter and less continuously paved. The route climbs gradually past views into the Bright Angel Trail corridor and reaches several major Hermit Road viewpoints. Hopi Point is popular at sunset, so return-shuttle and headlamp planning matter.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- South Rim, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
- Distance
- approximately 3.5 km one way
- Typical duration
- 1.5–2 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- Rolling climb along the Bright Angel Fault
- Best season
- Spring through autumn; winter with traction
- Trail type
- Point to point
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
No water, sunset crowds, cliff edges, darkness and winter ice
Highlights
Bright Angel Trail views, Maricopa Point, Powell Memorial, Hopi Point
Why find a buddy
Partners can coordinate sunset timing, edge awareness and the limited return-stop pattern.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.