What You Will See
As you step onto the viewing platform at Mather Point, you will be greeted with one of the most quintessential and expansive panoramic views of the entire Grand Canyon. The vastness of the canyon will immediately be apparent, with a clear line of sight extending for tens of miles in both the east and west directions. You'll look deep into the gorge, distinguishing various prominent buttes and temples like Vishnu Temple and Isis Temple, and on a clear day, you may even spot the thin, silver thread of the Colorado River snaking over a mile below and catch a glimpse of Phantom Ranch. The most unique aspect of Mather Point is its role as the first, major, and most accessible overlook for the majority of first-time visitors, as it is just a very short walk from the main South Rim Visitor Center. Its expansive, unobstructed view solidifies its status as the single most popular spot for that unforgettable first glimpse and for watching the dramatic colors of sunrise and sunset illuminate the canyon walls.
Best Time to Visit
- Best light Sunrise
- Crowd level High
- Shuttle route Blue Route — Grand Canyon Village
Distance & Time from Red Feather Lodge
From Red Feather Lodge drive approximately 7 miles to the National Park Visitor Center and it is about a 5 minute walk to the viewpoint.
Good to Know Before You Go
This viewpoint is typically the most crowded due to it’s proximity to the Visitor Center and Shuttle Bus Transfer Station.
