Cypress Point Vista via North Kaibab Trail

The North Rim of the Grand Canyon is a less-visited gem for hikers who want all the scenery with far lighter crowds. The hike to the Cypress Point Vista on North Kaibab Trail is a 6.5-mile adventure that leads you through unforgettable scenery as you scale down the wall of this mighty canyon.

You’ll pass breathtaking viewpoints, hike through tall tunnels blasted into the rock, and teeter on high suspension bridges.

There is a water station on this trail, but we still recommend bringing a large reservoir to help with the steep ascent. Poles and good boots will be helpful, and you should prepare for the varied weather at the North Rim. It can be very hot in the summer and very snowy in the winter.

From the trailhead, you’ll descend down into Bright Angel Canyon. Three-quarters of a mile in, stop at the Coconino Overlook to look down into the Roaring Springs Canyon. From here, it’s on to the Supai Tunnel, where there’s a water station and rest stop. Take a set of switchbacks downhill.

3.4mi in, cross the Redwall Footbridge to get to the west side of the canyon. Past the bridge, you’ll hike a dizzying narrow ridge along the canyon wall. This trail was also blasted out of the rock, and it’s quite amazing. The viewpoint is along this part of the trail. From here, it’s back to the trailhead the same way you came down.