Cape Final hike

From the small, wooded parking lot follow the unmarked, but very obvious trail as it snakes through the forest. This trail is extremely similar to Shoshone Trail on the South Rim, however is approximately twice as long. By that we mean that it is a wide, mostly flat trail going through a forest towards secluded yet scenic view of the canyon.

As the path continues you will have a handful of small hills to climb, but they shouldn’t pose any physical challenge. After just over a mile you will reach your first view of the Canyon. This is the eastern-most trail we list, so you will get fantastic views of the deserts lining the east rim as well as the earlier sections of the Colorado River.

The trail then veers right and continues along the side of the rim, still undulating up and down before you finally reach a sign identifying Cape Final. Here you will also find a few backcountry campsites. Clamber up the rocky point to admire the fantastic views of the eastern section of Grand Canyon National Park. If you peer directly across you will mostly likely be able to see a small smudge on the horizon. This is the tower of Desert View on the South Rim! Return the way you came.