Cape Royal Road, Grand Canyon North Rim

If you want to see some spectacular views on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, take a scenic drive on the Cape Royal Road. This route takes you through some incredible countryside. Your drive will provide you with many opportunities to pull off and find unbelievable vistas stretching before you.

Only three miles north of the Grand Canyon Lodge, you will find a paved road that takes you on a beautiful scenic drive to some of the north rim's most incredible sights. You will want to go the entire 23 miles to Cape Royal so as not to miss anything. Pack a lunch and make a day of it.

Much of your adventure will include hiking to some of the panoramic views. If you have a backcountry permit, you can even stay and camp. At Point Imperial you will be over 8,500 feet in elevation and at the highest point you can reach by road. This spot is only a bit over 2 ½ miles off of Cape Royal Road.

Continue your drive to Roosevelt Point. You can take the short loop trail from the parking area to a gorgeous view from an overlook. Cross the road for a short hike to a prehistoric pueblo. Ancient people lived here in the summer when farming was at its best.

As you move through the thick forests of ponderosa pine, aspen and spruce, watch for the mule deer crossing the road and try to catch a glimpse of the rarely seen Kaibab squirrel.