Vista Encantada, Grand Canyon Overlook

The Grand Canyon National Park has many interesting attractions, all viewable in most cases by its many viewpoints. However, the North Rim's best overlook is by far Vista Encantada. Tourists are entertained with the best picnic spot in the park and views that are beyond human comprehension. There is nothing that can compare to it.

Vista Encantada is an overlook in the Grand Canyon National Park. It is close to other viewpoints, and provides visitors with terrific views of varied North Rim landscapes. In fact it has one of the furthest views of the northern side of the park than any other point. Most go there to enjoy the scenery and have a picnic or two.

The first thing visitors notice is the incredibly massive view which is much better than its closer neighbor, Roosevelt Point. The expanse covers the Walhalla Plateau, Brady Peak and the Painted Desert. In fact, it is possible to see as far away as Nankowean Creek.

Ironically, the point's name means 'enchanted view'. Therefore it is no surprise that it has become the park's picnic capital. People gather with bagged lunches and bottles full of cold drinks or hot soups, dependant on the time of year. They find the nearest rock or patch of grass and continue gazing and munching.

Though the view is mainly to the northeast, it is still open enough that summer sunshine makes it a hot spot. Temperatures rise until late afternoon in clear blue skies with few clouds. Rangers recommend that people who are doing more than just a quick stop should take plenty of sunscreen and wear a wide brimmed hat. Sunstroke and heat exhaustion are two common emergencies at this point and others.