Grand Canyon Flooding Update  —  Red Feather Lodge and the Town of Tusayan remain open and unaffected by the recent Grand Canyon flooding. The South Rim remains open for day use. Overnight lodging inside the park is temporarily suspended, while lodging in Tusayan remains available and unaffected.   Read the full update →

Grand Canyon South Rim · Viewpoint 4

The Abyss

A dizzying, dramatic perspective into the canyon's sheer depth.

Sunset Favorite Wheelchair Accessible River View

  • Walk from Parking 1 minute
  • Shuttle Stop Yes - Red Route
  • Accessibility Yes - Standard wheelchairs (up to 30" wide x 48" long)
  • Restrooms No
  • Food No

What You Will See

A dizzying, dramatic perspective into the canyon's sheer depth. From this vantage point on Hermit Road, you will look down over the vast expanse of the Tonto Plateau and can trace the course of Monument Creek as it winds toward the Colorado River, which is visible far below. You can also spot the striking sandstone column known as The Monument rising from the inner gorge. The unique feature of The Abyss is its unsettling sheer vertical drop of nearly 3,000 feet (914 m), which is the longest uninterrupted vertical fall found anywhere along the South Rim.

Best Time to Visit

  • Best light Sunset
  • Crowd level Low
  • Shuttle route Red Route — Hermit Road

Distance & Time from Red Feather Lodge

Approximately 11.3 miles from Red Feather Lodge. Allow at least 3-4 hours to see the viewpoints along Hermit Road.

Good to Know Before You Go

Viewpoint is only accessible by shuttle bus, walking or biking from March thru October. Last shuttle typically leaves about 30-60 minutes after sunset. Drive your vehicle to the viewpoint from November - February (weather permitting).