Attraction of the Week: Mather Point at the Grand Canyon’s South Rim
The Grand Canyon’s gorgeous South Rim is a must-see for anyone traveling to or through beautiful Northern Arizona. There are many overlooks to take in the gorgeous views, day or night, 365 days a year. If driving to the canyon, you will park your car at the Mather Point Visitor’s Center. Although crowded (especially during the summer season), Mather Point is a great place to take in your first views of this grand natural wonder.
Mather Point provides spectacular panoramic vistas of the canyon. It can be difficult to get photos of yourself with the canyon in the background during the prime tourist months, however, if you visit during the slower fall or winter seasons, you will pretty much have the views to yourself. Later in the afternoon as the crowds begin to die down is another great time to plan your visit.
A few more great views from Mather Point
The Rim trail
After taking in the gorgeous views at Mather Point, you can continue walking along the 13 mile Rim Trail, where you will come across numerous observation points, each offering a slightly different view of the canyon. If you are not afraid of heights, there are several overlooks where you can take some pretty cool photos (like the one pictured below). Always be extra careful. There are many people who die each year at the canyon attempting to take pictures. Check out Over the Edge: Death at the Grand Canyon, sold at most of the gift shops. This is a highly interesting book on the various deaths which have occurred.
Walking out onto this overlook was a bit scary…
But the views were wonderful! And it made for some great photo souvenirs to bring home!
Gorgeous Views surround you everywhere on The Rim Trail
Lookout Studio (a large gift shop and observing area in the Historic Village) as seen from the Rim Trail
Great views from Lookout Studio
Grand Canyon Village
Additionally, you can take a free shuttle around to the various observing areas, trails, and also to the Historic Village, where you will find gift shops, restaurants, lodging, historic sites of interest, and more beautiful views.
The historic El Tovar Hotel, built in 1905
The Grand Canyon Railway has been transporting millions of people to the canyon since the early 1900’s.
The Grand Canyon Depot was built back in 1910.
When you arrive in the Historic Village you will be able to explore these sights and many more. Read the following article for more information on The Grand Canyon Railway.
For more ideas on what to do during your Grand Canyon South Rim visit, be sure to look at my Exploring the Beautiful South Rim of the Grand Canyon article.
Admission & Directions
Entrance to the Grand Canyon is $35 per car (good for 7 days). For the best value, purchase an America the Beautiful annual pass to all national parks for just $80. This is an excellent deal as it includes admission to national parks, monuments, and refuges across the US.
To get to Mather Point by car, enter the following coordinates into your GPS: 36°03’32″N 112°06’33″W. After parking near the Visitor’s Center, you will be just a short walk away from Mather Point.
