Don’t Miss These 13 Surprising Sites at the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is not just a gash in the desert; it is one of nature's most outstanding works of art. It offers a pleasant surprise to visitors who expect to see nothing besides a giant hole in the ground. There is so much to see and do out there, and it is little wonder that millions of tourists flock to the Grand Canyon yearly.

The Grand Canyon has much more than famous rim views, from hidden grottos to ancient ruins and vistas that most travelers miss. After speaking with park rangers and veteran hiking guides, I discovered that the most remarkable sites rarely show up on Instagram feeds.

I specifically excluded popular locations like Mather Point to focus on lesser-known sites that local guides and park staff recommended. By cross-referencing hundreds of visitor reviews with expert recommendations and park service documentation, these 13 sites offer unique features that typical tourist guides often overlook.

Kolb Studio

One of the must-see sites on the south rim, the Kolb Studio was once the Kolb brothers' home and studio. You can tour the private residence for $40 per person.

In addition to the artwork in the exhibition, the studio is an information center and a shop for gifts and hiking gear. The Kolb Studio also hosts the annual Grand Canyon Celebration of Arts.

Horseshoe Bend

Nature can be a remarkable sculptor with enough time and the right tools. The Horseshoe Bend is a typical example of nature at its artistic best.

A kayak adventure along the curve offers a spectacular bottom-to-top vista worth your effort.

The trail leading to the bottom of the Horseshoe Bend provides breathtaking views, but the view from the top of the cliff will linger in the mind.

Desert View Watchtower

Created by Mary Colter, the iconic stone tower offers a panoramic view of the Grand Canyon. It is one of the best spots to take photos of the canyon and the Colorado River. Other notable landmarks visible from the watchtower include the San Francisco Peaks and the Painted Desert.

The watchtower also hosts Cultural Demonstrations during spring, summer, and fall. Desert View also marks the site where an airline collision occurred in 1956.

Roosevelt Point

Most visitors to the Grand Canyon never bother to make the long drive to the north rim. With so much beautiful scenery to explore, they need to know what they are missing.

Roosevelt Point is one of the many viewpoints from which to admire the canyon's magnificence. It lies between Bright Angel Point and Camp Royal. However, like the rest of the north rim, Roosevelt Point isn't accessible all year round.

Trail Of Time

The Trail of Time is a relatively easy trail that takes you way back in time. In addition to breathtaking canyon views, the trail offers a geologic history of the Grand Canyon. Some rocks and exhibits tell the canyon's long history.

Also, each meter you walk on the Trail of Time represents one million years of the canyon's existence. What a way to take in beauty, history, and geology all at once.

Bright Angel Point

This is one of the most popular spots on the Grand Canyon’s quieter side, the north rim. Bright Angel offers spectacular dawns and sunsets. Standing much higher than the south rim, it treats visitors to incredible views of Bright Angel Canyon.

Furthermore, on quiet days, you can even hear the waters of Roaring Springs. Bright Angel is accessible by a paved trail near the Grand Canyon Lodge.

Shoshone Point

Lying close to the south rim road, this lesser-known gem offers a great canyon view. One of the most incredible things about Shoshone Point is that access is through a pretty flat and shaded trail.

You don’t even need hiking gear for this easy walk. Along the trail is a picnic area with tables and grills.

Shoshone Point has no guardrails, so visitors have to be careful.

Grandview Trail

This narrow and challenging trail is not for the novice nor the fainthearted. Tackling the rocky and exposed Grandview Trail requires caution, even from experienced desert hikers.

The Grandview Trail is not only great for hiking and camping but also offers awe-inspiring vistas. However, as a former mining trail, it is home to rusty mining odds and ends. These relics of past mining operations are protected archeological resources.

Yaki Point

Because of congestion, visits to Yaki Point are either by hiking or by shuttle bus. However, you won’t regret the inconvenience of not going with your vehicle. This is one viewpoint that will treat you to vivid sunrises and sunsets.

From Yaki Point, you will also see part of the Bright Angel Trail and the South Kaibab Trail. If you are looking for unique features, Yaki Point has them.

South Kaibab Trail

Located on the south rim, the South Kaibab Trail is a steep dirt trail that offers little shade. Since mules also use the trail, there are several safety rules that every hiker must observe. Moreover, one needs to be well prepared before tackling this challenging trail.

South Kaibab Trail compensates for its challenging nature with some of the best views of the Grand Canyon. Beautiful stops along it include Ooh-Aah Point, Cedar Ridge, and Skeleton Point.

Yavapai Museum Of Geology

From its perch at Yavapai Point, the Yavapai Museum of Geology offers a panoramic view of the Grand Canyon. It is a warm and cozy place where you can take in the canyon's beauty in comfort.

In addition to the picture windows, the museum offers exhibits that describe the canyon's geological history. Rock models and a large topographical relief map help visitors better understand the canyon's features.

Point Imperial

Located on the north rim, Point Imperial is the Grand Canyon’s highest viewpoint. From its imperial height, you can see Vermillion Cliffs, Marble Canyon, and the Painted Desert.

Some amenities on offer include exhibits, picnic tables, and toilets. Thanks to its location, Point Imperial doesn't attract too many visitors.

Visitors who want to enjoy superb, silent views can hike the Ken Patrick Trail.

Point Sublime

Only a few visitors will brave the rough and lonely road to Sublime Point. However, on arrival, their reward is an expansive and awe-inspiring view of the Grand Canyon.

It is also an excellent place for a picnic or camping if you have the necessary permit. Although visits are free, you will need a permit to camp at Point Sublime. Also, it is vital to plan your visit between 15 May and 15 October, when visitor services are open.