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Grand Canyon – Toroweap Viewpoint

Fully Guided Tour

Photography Paradise!

Interesting Geology!

Other Remote Grand Canyon Tours

Grand Canyon – Overnight Toroweap Photography Tour

Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim Backpacking

Grand Canyon Deer Creek Backpacking

Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim Backpacking

Single Travelers & Private Tours

We can always accommodate single travelers via private tours.  Often times, we are also able to combine a single traveler with other scheduled parties; please give us a call at 435-644-5506 to discuss the latter option.

Private Tours are available to be booked online.

We go out of our way to open the wonders of the West to  EVERYONE .

We are permitted, licensed, and insured.

Dreamland Safari Tours holds Special Use Permits from the  Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument ,  Grand Canyon National Park , the  Vermilion Cliffs National Monument/Paria Wilderness , Glen Canyon National Recreation Area , Kanab Bureau of Land Management, Kaibab National Forest , and  Arizona Strip Bureau of Land Management .

Don't see your preferred departure date or time available via online booking? Give us a call. 

For sunset or sunrise at our more remote locations, we recommend a scheduled or custom overnight or multi-day tour - and we are happy to work with you to develop an itinerary that meets your needs.

All listed tour durations and pickup times are approximate. Please allow 10-20 minutes of pickup time flexibility for unforeseen circumstances and varying pickup logistics. Water and snacks are provided on all tours. A lunch meal is included on all tours of 6+ hours. Vegetarian option available.

We reserve the right to fill all empty seats on non-private tours.  Cancellation / Reschedule / Weather policy applies.

Please familiarize yourself with our  FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS   before contacting us.

To contact us with other specific questions or begin Making Reservations click the " Book Now " Button on each tour page or click Contact Us  for info on how to give us a call or shoot us an email.

With 3000 vertical feet of air to the river, Toroweap, or Tuweep as it is also known, is unique as the most sheer viewpoint in the Grand Canyon National Park.

• Trip Details

Private Tour Upgrade Available?

Tour length, departure times, difficulty (1-10), recommended abilities, attractions, special interests, these faqs are specific to this tour. if you would like to view our general faqs click here ..

1. Is there a bathroom at Toroweap? We will stop at a nice, clean pit toilet at the ranger station once we reach the national park boundary about 1.5 hours after we leave Kanab. There is also a nice, clean pit toilet near the Grand Canyon rim that can be used while we are exploring the viewpoints at Toroweap or during lunch.

2. Is this tour available in the winter? Yes! We offer trips to Toroweap year round. It’s true the north rim of Grand Canyon National Park is closed from Oct. 15 through May 15, but Toroweap is open all year. The road to Toroweap lower elevation and rarely snowed in. It is a bit more likely we will have to cancel a tour because of weather in the winter, but more often than not, we can get to Toroweap.

3. How long is the drive? It takes us about 2 hours to get from Kanab to rim of the Grand Canyon at Toroweap. Toroweap is 61 miles from pavement! It’s pretty exhilarating to get that far away from from civilization.

4. Can you describe the experience at Toroweap? Why is the different than simply visiting the north rim on our own? When National Geographic produced a special edition to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Grand Canyon National Park, they chose a photo from Toroweap for the cover. It really is a special place. Please read our blog post that offers describes the experience at Toroweap in some detail.

5. I don’t like to hike long distances. Is this a good tour for me? This is likely our easiest tour in terms of physical difficulty. We drive you to within 100 yards of the rim of the Grand Canyon where you can gaze down into the canyon at the Colorado River. A short, optional walk where there are some rocks to negotiate will lead to other viewpoints. Most participants walk ½ to 1 mile on the tour, but if all you want to do is walk 100 yards to the rim, that’s fine.

6. Do you offer sunset tours at Toroweap? Sunset tours are considered on a case-by-case basis, so call us at (435) 644-5506. Toroweap is at least 2 hours from Kanab, which makes sunset tours unfeasible for us for a good part of the year. They are much easier for us to accommodate in late fall, winter or very early spring while days are short. There is also the issue of the park closing the gate 30 minutes after sunset, which leaves very little time after sunset before we need to load up and get to the park boundary. The best option for sunset photography is to join our Toroweap overnight trip , you’ll catch sunrise, sunset and hopefully incredible starry skies.

Guest Experiences on the Toroweap / Tuweep Tour

Very knowledgeable and pleasant guide, no problems traveling to and around very remote location. Visiting Toroweap- the Western part of the Grand Canyon was unforgettable and led to some photos which all my friends and family have been amazed by. Definitely a highlight of a recent long Southwest trip. Only negative is that price seemed to be slightly on the higher end, especially for solo travelers, but in this case well worth it.

Flyer02153382011 – June 8, 2019 TripAdvisor

I’d been wanting to visit Toroweap Overlook for several years, after seeing photos of this amazing place online. However, there was no way I was taking my own car out there and when I found that Dreamland did a day-trip there, I had to book it! My wife & I had a wonderful time. The 60-mile dirt road in was treacherous at times, but our guide Andrea was a skilled driver and navigating everything the road threw at us with no problem. I also was appreciative that Dreamland took note of my request when we booked the trip. Sometimes, if I’m in the back-seat or far back seat of an 8-passenger vehicle, I can get car-sick. I asked about reserving the front seat – and they did it for me! It was a very casual, laid-back, “let’s enjoy the trek in & out and the natural beauty of what we’re going to see” kind of trip, exactly what we were looking for. Dreamland goes to so many destinations – I know that my wife & I will be back in Kanab and book with them again in the future.

davej533 – June 3, 2019 TripAdvisor

My cousin, her friend and I took a trip to Toroweap with Dreamland Safari Tours. Our guide, Steve, is a natural-born outdoor guy who took us on a safe, information packed tour of a remote facade of the Grand Canyon that few people ever see. Steve showed us the beautiful scenery, as well as a herd of pronghorn antelope that ran across our path. We love Dreamland Safari and we will ask for Steve for all future trips.

Discover41920760798 – May 16, 2019 TripAdvisor

We did the White Pocket / South Coyote Buttes tour, and the Peek-a-Boo / White Wave tour. Our guides on both these tours were excellent, they were knowledgeable, helpful, friendly and very personable. The lunch, drinks and snacks provided were very good. I don’t think we could have had any better tours.

Dreamer54252255082 – April 14, 2019 TripAdvisor

I went to Toroweap with Dreamland Safari and had a great time! Elizabeth and Orion are great guides. They are knowledgeable and personable. Toroweap is an amazing place to visit, but very remote. Traveling solo, I wouldn’t have gone by myself. It was great to be with people who know the area and would know what to do if something went wrong. This is my second trip with Dreamland Safari. I took a tour of White Pocket with them in 2017 and had just as great a time. I recommend taking a trip with Dreamland Safari.

ExploreArizona – April 22, 2019 TripAdvisor

We can always accommodate single travelers via private tours ($799).  Often times, we are also able to combine a single traveler with other scheduled parties; please give us a call at 435-644-5506 to discuss the latter option.

Let the timeless wilderness of the Grand Canyon’s North Rim captivate your soul at one-of-a kind Toroweap. Our natural, private Grand Canyon Tours to Toroweap are second to none.

It rests on a layer of red rock nestled between the towering Parashant cliffs and the abyss of the Grand Canyon. Very recent volcanic activity (geologically speaking) creates a cool backdrop and incites the imagination. Sometimes we are lucky enough to see the rafters go over Lava Falls nearly 2 miles away.

On the busiest days of the year one might see 20 people the whole day. Usually there’s few to none. There are no rails, no signs, no pavement, no buses, no commercialism. Tuweep has been featured by National Geographic and ranks #5 on Trip Advisor for all of Grand Canyon National Park. This is a huge testament of its ability to move people considering only 1 in 10 visit the North Rim, and probably only 1 in 10 of them leave the pavement.

On our remote Private Grand Canyon Tours at Tuweep we have a homemade picnic near the rim and take a short but exhilarating hike to the best vantage points. Our experienced Toroweap Tour guides help you shoot those once in a lifetime photographs. For those more adventurous try an overnighter at incredible Toroweap. Be one of the lucky 1% or less!

Our Toroweap Tours run year round (except seasonal closure). Paved portions of the North Rim are closed October through May.

Other Remote North Rim Grand Canyon Tours

Toroweap with Rock Art and Lava Tube

Overnight Toroweap Photography Tour

Dreamland Safari Tours holds Special Use Permits from the  Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument ,  Grand Canyon National Park , the  Vermilion Cliffs National Monument/Paria Wilderness ,  Kanab Bureau of Land Management  and  Arizona Strip Bureau of Land Management .

Don’t see your preferred departure date or time available via online booking? Give us a call. 

For sunset or sunrise at our more remote locations, we recommend a scheduled or custom overnight or multi-day tour – and we are happy to work with you to develop an itinerary that meets your needs.

To contact us with other specific questions or begin Making Reservations click the “ Book Now ” Button on each tour page or click Contact Us  for info on how to give us a call or shoot us an email.

About Toroweap

When National Geographic published a special edition commemorating the 100th anniversary of Grand Canyon National Park, they chose a view of Toroweap for its cover. There really is no other Grand Canyon viewpoint like it. Sheer red cliffs drop 3,000 feet into the mighty Colorado River. Standing here feels like standing in the inner gorge of the Grand Canyon – no hiking required. It is less than one mile across the canyon to the Hualapai Indian Reservation on the South Rim, making this one of the narrowest and deepest segments of the inner canyon.

Those standing on the rim at Toroweap can actually hear the turbid river flowing through the giant gorge and rafters hooting and hollering after a thrill ride through Lava Falls. Extensive river views both up and downstream mark Toroweap. The colorful red-rock of the Hermit Shale and Supai sandstones to the east contrast with the black, basaltic lava flows to the west.

Toroweap is the Paiute word for dry or desolate valley. Tuweep came into use to describe the local white settlement and later the park area. The Paiute word Tuweep refers to the earth.

Getting to Toroweap

Our tours traverse Antelope Valley Road, 61 unpaved miles, to this remote Grand Canyon Viewpoint. We access this road from Highway 389 between Fredonia, Arizona and Pipe Spring National Monument. There is little to no phone reception on the road, flat tires are common, especially in vehicles with typical “street” tires, and other vehicles that could offer help are few and far between. Sections of slippery, sticky mud and deep ruts develop when the road is wet, and occasionally flash floods in washes make the road temporarily impassable. Once in the park, the Esplanade sandstone makes for rough road. The last few miles require good ground clearance, sturdy tires and four-wheel drive really comes in handy here.

Did you know you can visit the North Rim of the Grand Canyon in the winter? Toroweap is many miles from the more frequented viewpoints at the Grand Canyon National Park lodge at the North Rim and the road to Tuweep does not climb over the Kaibab Plateau. Therefore, we offer tours to Tuweep year-round. It does occasionally snow on the road to Toroweap, but it usually melts quickly, so there aren’t very many days in a given year that prevent us from making the trek. The elevation at Toroweap is only 4,600 feet, compared to 8,300 at the north rim lodge.

Human History at Tuweep

The first humans in the Tuweep region were ice-age hunters who lived a nomadic hunting-gathering existence in what was a milder climate. The Ancestral Puebloans, arriving about 2,000 years ago, farmed the area. They migrated eastward around A.D.1300. The most recent Native Americans living here were the Paiute. They now live to the north. There are 500 Paiutes living on 188 square-mile reservation. We pass through part of that reservation on the way to Toroweap, and sometimes we spot wild horses there. John Wesley Powell, led by a Paiute guide, visited Tuweep in 1870. He mapped and named many of the local features. More recently, European-Americans ranched, mined, and settled the Arizona Strip. While ranchers used this valley seasonally in the early 1900s, the first year-round homestead was the Lower Kent Ranch, which was built in 1927. A fascinating book recounts the tale of one family who homesteaded about 20 miles from Toroweap near Mt. Trumbull: “The Last Homesteaders of the Arizona Strip” by Jean Luttrell. She also penned “The Last Old Time Ranger,” which tells the story of John Riffey, who served as ranger of Toroweap from 1942-1980. Riffey is now buried at Toroweap, not far from the 1921 antique pull grader that rests beside the road. Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument was declared on Jan. 11, 2000. The 1,048,325-acre monument is larger than Rhode Island.

Toroweap Geology Explained

At the rim, the  rock you are standing on is Esplanade Sandstone, which is 286-320 million years old. The valley’s volcanic history is apparent because of the towering cinder cones such as Vulcan’s Throne and obvious black lava flows that coat the walls of the canyon. Volcanic activity began along the Toroweap fault around 7 million years ago. Over time, lava issued from more than 60 vents. Beginning about 1.2 million years ago, lava flowed into Toroweap Valley, forming the flat-bottomed valley we drive through. Vulcan’s Throne, Mount Trumbull and the Uinkaret Mountains are all the result of volcanic activity.

The Colorado River was dammed by lava flows multiple times from 725,000 to 100,000 years ago. One lake was believed to be 2,000 feet deep. Geologists estimate it could have taken as long as 20 years to fill. Over the next several thousand years, flowing water undercut the softer river sediment beneath the lava dam. Waterfalls would have poured over the top of the dams. Today, there are only remnants of lava clinging to the canyon walls.

These lava remnants provide key information about its age. Lava flows 7.5-6 million years old found on both sides of the canyon show no evidence that a canyon existed at that time. And a date from a lava flow in the bottom of the canyon indicates that 1.2 million years ago the Grand Canyon was almost as deep as it is today. By about 5.5 million years ago, the Gulf of California was opened up by tectonic forces, and the lower Colorado River was formed and water cut the canyon in a very short time, geologically speaking.

One highlight of the Toroweap view is looking downstream over Lava Falls. This class 10 climax to multi-day rafting adventure is at river mile 179 from Lee’s Ferry. Even John Wesley Powell refused to attempt it on the first ever Grand Canyon river expedition in 1869.  Lava Falls drops 30 feet in 13 seconds. The rapids appear much smaller than they are from Toroweap, but with a pair of binoculars, one can watch small rafts and kayaks disappear for a second as they are blocked behind the steep falls. If you hold still, you might even hear the rafters shouting when then make it through the rapids.

Along the way, we often spot gopher snakes or rattlesnakes, cottontail and jackrabbits and white striped antelope ground squirrels. There are also mule deer, coyote, bobcats, mountain lions and many small rodents and reptiles. A real treat is spotting an American pronghorn. The pronghorn is the fastest land mammal in the Western Hemisphere and is often cited as the second fastest in the world behind a cheetah.  They can run 35 mph for 4 miles and 55 mph for 0.5 mi. Pronghorns are built for speed, not for jumping. Their ranges are sometimes cut off by ranchers’ fences. The protection of habitat has allowed pronghorn numbers to recover to an estimated population between 500,000 and 1,000,000. Their range extends from Canada south through parts of Minnesota, coastal southern California and northern Mexico.

Dreamland Women's Adventure Award Application / Nomination

Know a woman who could use a fresh-air getaway to Southern Utah at close to no cost? Nominate her (or yourself!) today. You are welcome to nominate more than one individual by submitting multiple nomination forms. The Women's Adventure Award weekend takes place from March 1-3 2024 and includes a full-day hiking adventure with Dreamland Safari Tours, two nights of lodging, meals, and more. Adventure Award recipients are responsible for their own travel to/from Kanab and need to plan to arrive in Kanab by 4pm on the afternoon of Friday March 1.

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Toroweap Overlook – Tuweep – the best of the Grand Canyon

Planning a trip to Toroweap Overlook, also known as Tuweep – the most scenic peak in the Grand Canyon? Since getting there is difficult, check out our tips and photos! Tuweep is a remote and isolated Grand Canyon National Park North Rim area. A trip there requires special preparation and effort, but it’s worth it. The view from Toroweap Overlook is the most moving over the entire Grand Canyon. We have been there a few times, so read our detailed guide to the Torowep Overlook, where we share our experiences with you. What’s more, we tell you everything about the new Tuweep Day-use Ticket Reservation System mandatory for 2024.

Toroweap Overlook – Our Experiences

Toroweap Overlook, also known as Toroweap Point or simply Tuweep, is a spectacular vantage point from which you can view the canyon and several volcanic ash mounds and lava flows up close. It is nearly 3,000 feet (915 m) above the Colorado River, and it is from here that the most beautiful photos of the Grand Canyon are taken. Tuweep in Paiute (pronounced Tu-VEEP) refers to “the earth.”

Toroweap Point (Tuweep) is the least visited viewpoint among the North Rim Viewpoints and South Rim Viewpoints . From Tuweep, you can enjoy the Grand Canyon for what it is. A deep, awe-inspiring canyon created by the erosion of the Colorado River.

A trip to Toroweap Overlook is one of the best adventurous things to do while staying in Kanab , which is the closest town to this spectacular place.

My partner Chris and I love the Toroweap Overlook, with the spectacular Toroweap Formation and Colorado River in the steep canyon. We have visited it several times. We have also spent two nights at Tuweep Campground to admire the sunrises and sunsets and listen to the sound of the Colorado River. We have visited this spot a few times. Below, you will find details to help you prepare for this fantastic adventure. We also present our original photos, which we took during our visits.

TRAVEL TIP: If you plan more time in the Grand Canyon National Park, check our detailed guide with lots of tips to The Best Grand Canyon Viewpoints from the North Rim and The Best Grand Canyon Viewpoints from the South Rim .

Toroweap Overlook – the best of Grand Canyon Viewpoints

Why is Toroweap so breathtaking? Why is it the most beautiful view of the Grand Canyon and Colorado River for us? Because it’s pure wilderness, it’s a remote experience. It’s a unique place where you can hear the sound of silence.

Getting to Toweep is challenging, requiring a 4WD and high clearance and the skills of the driver. There are no handrails or other security features, either, so it’s rustic. It’s pure nature itself—space, the abyss, and the sound of the Colorado River. Moreover, it is a new reservation system , and you need a permit to get there.

Tuweep Day-use Ticket Reservation System – for 2024

Until recently, permits were not required to get to Toroweep Overlook for the day. Permits were only required if you wanted to stay overnight at the rustic Tuweep campground. To get to Tuweep Overlook during the day, you only needed the America the Beautiful Pass or the day-use fee to enter the national park. But now a permit is a must even for a day visit. So you must book a Tuweep Area Day Use Ticket for a day trip.

According to the official NPS website , the increasing popularity of the Tuweep area has led to overuse by vehicles and visitors. The Tuweep area is becoming overcrowded. In addition, vehicles are exceeding noise limits and impacting natural and cultural resources.

To protect the Toroweap Overlook and Tuweep area, Grand Canyon National Park has decided to implement a three-year pilot project for day-use reservations at the Tuweep Visitor Use Area, Toroweap Valley, and Kanab Plateau. A $2 per vehicle ticket fee is proposed for visitors to access Tuweep. It’s also mandatory in 2024.

How do you make a Tuweep Day-use Ticket Reservation for 2024?

According to the NPS website , the Grand Canyon proposes implementing an expanded Tuweep reservation system for day use in 2024. This means that visitors will be required to purchase a day-use ticket before arriving at the Tuweep area. The pilot Tuweep day-use ticket reservation system will be available at Recreation.gov .

It is important to note that visitors with a valid Tuweep backcountry permit for overnight camping at the Tuweep campground (see below for more details) can enter the area without purchasing a day-use ticket. Visitors must also have a valid park entrance ticket or site pass.

The day-use pass system will allow 20 vehicles daily access in addition to existing backcountry permit holders. Of the 20 vehicles with daily passes, 18 are reserved for private vehicles, and two are reserved for commercial Tuweep Tour commercial use authorization holders.

A new park use fee would be implemented to implement the Tuweep reservation system for daily use. A $2 fee would cover the administrative costs. Up to six tickets could be purchased by private vehicle owners 120 days in advance. The remaining 12 tickets can be purchased up to two days before the reservation date.

What is Toroweap Overlook? Geology of Toroweap Formation

The view from Toroweap Overlook is dramatically different, especially if you visit the North Rim and South Rim of Grand Canyon viewpoints. You speechless. Toroweap Overlook peers out over an abrupt gorge set a broad corridor 3,000 feet (915 m) below the rim.

Eight million-year-old lava lows and conical black cinder cones stud the landscape. The Toroweap formation area is similar to the rest of the Grand Canyon but includes a more recent chapter of volcanism.

The Toroweap Fault underlies the valley, crosses the Colorado River, and continues south up Prospect Canyon. Volcanic activity began along this fault around seven million years ago. Beginning about 1.2 million years ago, lava flowed into Toroweap Valley, forming the flat-bottomed valley we see today. Vulcan’s Throne, Mount Trumbull, and the Uinkaret Mountains result from volcanic activity.

Lava spilled over the canyon rim more than a dozen times, damming the Colorado River. Remnants of these flows and dams are visible just west of the overlook. Sediments clinging to the canyon walls high above the river indicate the formation of large lakes. The river eroded the lava dams and continued its downward cutting.

From Toroweap, it is less than one mile across the canyon to the Hualapai Indian Reservation, famous for Havasupai Waterfalls on the South Rim, making this place one of the narrowest and deepest segments of the inner canyon. The colorful red-rock of the Hermit Shale and Supai sandstones to the east contrasts with the black, basaltic lava flows to the west.

Where is Toroweap Overlook?

Toroweap Overlook is a part of the Grand Canyon North Rim called Uinkaret Plateau, known as the “Place of Pines.” The closest Town is Kanab (Utah) and Fredonia ( Arizona ).

Kanab is a perfect place to explore and stay for a night. From Kanab are 72 miles and at least 3 hours of driving. Below you will find the best deals for staying in Kanab.

Tips Before you Drive to Toroweap

Remember to get a tuweep day-use ticket reservation for 2024.

As it’s a new pilot system, check the official website to get your Tuweep Day-use Ticket. Reservation will be possible through Recreation.gov . Make sure to read all rules on this website as well.

Vehicle for getting to Toweep Overlook

High-clearance vehicles are required. Vehicles and vehicle combinations longer than 22 feet (6.7 m) are prohibited. This is the total length from end to end, including anything towed. The park rangers check it at the entrance; if you do not meet these conditions, you can be turned back.

Ensure you have enough fuel, a full-size spare tire, a jack/lift, and the owner’s manual. Tow service costs $1,000–2,000, and assistance is not guaranteed.

No Services at Toweep

Services are non-existent at Toroweap: there is no water, gas, food, lodging, or phone service. So fill up to full. Just in case, pack more water, more food, and warm clothes. On our first trip to Toroweap, we could not stay overnight. We had no permit. So after sunset, we had to leave the park. It was November, and night fell very quickly, and the temperature dropped with it. It was so dark that we could not safely continue driving on this rough road.

We stayed for the night on a side road in an uncomfortable car. Luckily, we always prepare ourselves thoroughly for road trips. Therefore, check out our Road Trip Packing List and Day Hiking Packing List before your Toroweap adventure. The second time we visited Toroweap together, we stayed there at Tuweep campground for two nights.

Day-Use Only Area at Tuweep Overlook

Tuweep Overlook is a day-use area. It’s open from sunrise to 30 minutes past sunset when the gate is locked. And you must leave the park if you don’t have a permit to camp there. Pets must be leashed. Drones are prohibited. Fires and charcoal grills are prohibited.

Permits for Tuweep in 2024

As the system is new – we will repeat this information – you need a permit to visit Tuweep during the day. You also need a permit to stay at Tuweep campground for a night (you need a Backcountry Permit ).

Camping requires a reservation permit (below, we give you details). What’s more permitted campers must arrive by sunset. Advance permits are required for camping and overnight use at Tuweep Campground and in all backcountry use areas. So plan it ahead.

Weather at Tuweep Overlook

The weather on the plateau changes quite often. If a downpour or heavy rain, the road may be completely impassable. Therefore, be sure to check the weather forecast before your trip. Check also alerts on the official NPS website . Wear layers. It might be windy on the cliff.

Entrance Fee at Tuweep

Even if you have a permit to Tuweep , you need to pay an entrance fee to the park. Although Toroweap Overlook is extremely remote from the South Rim and North Rim, it is still a part of the Grand Canyon National Park. Entrance fees apply to each national park.

So, don’t forget to pack America the Beautiful Pass, which is your ticket to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country, including all US national parks. The pass is valid for one year from the month of purchase.

Driving Directions to Toroweap Overlook and Tuweep Campground

The Toroweap Overlook is located in the western part of the park on the North Rim . Driving to Toroweap Overlook is an adventure in itself. Not every driver can do that, and not every car does. As a result, bring tire plugs and a portable air compressor to repair flat tires.

The road is primitive, with sharp rocks, deep holes, and dust. It’s a rough road. Due to this, it is recommended to have 4WD to get to Toroweap Overlook and Tuweep Campground. High-clearance vehicles are required.

You can choose one of three main routes to Tuweep Overlook from AZ 389 between Fredonia, Arizona, and St.George, Utah. And it takes you about three hours of driving time one way.

• Sunshine Route : from Fredonia, Arizona, by Country Road #109. Which is 61 miles (98 km) of primitive road featuring sharp rocks, wash-boarding, and dust. We did it a few times, and it’s doable if you drive safely, your car has 4WD, and has high clearance.
• Clayhole Route : County Road #5 leaves AZ 389 at Colorado City, Arizona. It is 56 miles (90 km) long and impassable when wet.
• Main Street Route : BLM Road #1069 and County Road #5 from St. George is 90 miles (145 km) long. This scenic route is impassable in winter due to snow and mud.

Tuweep Campground near Toroweap Overlook

Tuweep Campground is located next to Toroweap Overlook and is one of our favorites in the Grand Canyon area (the second is Havasu Falls Camping on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon). Why do we like it so much? Because you can hear the silence. You can admire the Grand Canyon rim.

Above all, you can listen to the sound of the Colorado River. Finally, sunsets, sunrises, and stargazing from this edge moved us to tears. There is no civilization, coverage, electricity, or water available. There is only you and the infinite space of Toroweap formation.

Tuweep Campground Permits and Facilities

First of all, you need a permit to stay overnight at Tuweep Campground. Advance permits are required for camping at Tuweep Campground and backcountry use areas. You can obtain a permit at go.nps.gov/tuweep .

Follow the directions on the official website . Complete a Permit Request Form . Use”TCG” for the use area, entry, and exit location codes, and mail or fax the completed form to the address at the top of the form. A “TCG” permit costs $10 per permit plus $12 per group per night. Permits cannot be issued at Tuweep. Camping is prohibited on the land adjacent to the park and at the airstrip.

Permits cannot be issued at Tuweep. But if you travel after the 15 of November, you can ask a ranger about the provisional permit. If there are no other reservations, you can get them at Tuweep. We got a temporary permit for two nights. One night costs 13$ (November 2019). However, if you plan to be during the season, you must apply for the permit in advance (a minimum of one month before arrival) because the place is gaining popularity and might be full.

There are no facilities except composting toilets and picnic tables. Nine small-group campsites are available for one to six people with a maximum of two vehicles, and one large-group campsite is available for seven to eleven people with a maximum of four cars.

Tuweap Campground Rules:

• vehicles and vehicles combinations longer than 22 feet (6,7 m) are prohibited (this is the total length)
• campers must arrive by sunset
• fires and charcoal grills prohibited
• store all food and garbage in a vehicle, pack out all trash
• seven-night limit.

Where to stay if you don’t have a permit for the Tuweap Campground?

If you can’t stay at Tuweep Campground, the best place to stay is in Kanab. We love this small town with great lodging, food, and a perfect atmosphere.

What’s more, if you leave Kanab early in the morning, you can spend the whole day at Toroweap Overlook, wait for the sun to go down, and safely return to the town just after sunset. However, remember that it is forbidden to stay at Toroweap at night without a permit, so leave the park just after sunset.

Toroweap Overlook Hiking Trails

Tuckup trailhead from tuweep campground.

Our favorite hike from Toroweap Overlook is The Tuckup Trail, which gives you a spectacular taste of Esplanade slick-rock. The trail is 3 miles (5 km) long to Cove Canyon. You will be rewarded with endless views of the Grand Canyon area. And you can listen to the roar of the Colorado River.

How to get to the trailhead?

Access the Tuckup Trailhead is on the north of Tuweep Campground or, if camping, from site number 10.

How does this trail look?

Toroweap Overlook is dramatically different than other Grand Canyon viewpoints. Tuweep peers over a steep gorge set in a narrow corridor 3,000 feet (915 m) below the rim. Walk to the edge is a breathtaking experience because Toroweep Overlook is the wildest of viewpoints, and there are no facilities.

What is the difficulty level, and how to prepare for this hike?

It’s an easy-moderate trail that leads through the plateau above the canyon’s cliff. No water is available, so take a lot of water and nutritious snacks for your hike, especially during summer, when it’s sweltering. The area is rocky and desert.

Watch your step to protect the delicate ecosystem and stay on the trail. Above all, watch out for cactuses that densely cover the plateau because you can hurt yourself with cactus spines. Take trekking boots with excellent traction and trekking pools.

And finally, be careful of the edges. A spectacular 3000-foot (910 m) abyss offers dramatic views, but it might also be dangerous if you step too close.

Saddle Horse Loop Trail from Tuweep Campground

It’s an easy and short walk with spectacular views. If you have only a few hours on Toroweap, it’s worth taking this trail. This 45-minute loop offers breathtaking views of the Colorado River in the steep gorge below the rim. It’s also a colorful walk through the native plant gardens protected and nourished by beautiful displays of micro-biotic crusted soils.

Every inch of crusted toppings signifies 10 years of growth and erosion. Access to the trail is along the road between Toroweap Overlook and Tuweap Campground or from the trailhead near campsite number 5.

Agnes Stabinska is a writer, photographer, and co-founder of The Van Escape. She loves wildlife, landscape photography, and outdoor adventures, especially hiking, camping, and exploring U.S. national parks. Although she has traveled to many countries for almost 20 years, her favorite places are Alaska, the American Southwest, and the Pacific Northwest, which she often visits and explore with her partner, Chris. Their travel tips, itineraries, and recommendations will help you get away from it all and plan a wonderful vacation.

21 Comments

Wow – spectacular pictures of the Grand Canyon. The Toroweap Overlook seems to be really a off-the-beaten-path tip. Getting a permit to camp overnight is a must, I would say. I will definitely save this post for a later visit!

I have not visited the Grand Canyon’s north rim. The Toroweap Overlook looks amazing, I love the view over the Colorado River. Good to know a high clearance vehicle is required, that road does look rough!

I was more than happy to check out your pics from the Toroweap Overlook since we may never get to this point above the Grand Canyon North Rim. Although if we can get to the trail head, it was great to know that the trail was easy to moderate. We enjoyed the rougher views of the North Rim on our last visit. But your views were even more stunning.

As an amateur photographer, I always look for inspiring places and architecture to shoot. So you had me at this spectacular vantage point. What a view from of the canyon of the volcanic ash mounds and lava flows up close. I need to add this to my list.

There’s a lot to consider before visiting Toroweap, I had no idea! The permits are a good idea, because I’m sure it also helps campers to stay stay. As always, I’m in awe of your photos, you should sell them to National Geographic! One for my America bucket list.

What a wonderful post on the Toroweap overlook. I have never visited this part of Grand Canyon.Seems like an excellent place for hiking and camping.

There’s beauty in a place that’s not so popular and uncrowded . You get to experience its rawness. You really got a lovely place to catch sunrise and sunset here. Amazing views!

I can’t believe I haven’t been to the Grand Canyon yet! It’s always so lovely in photos. And the Toroweap Overlook looks like the perfect place for viewing. It’s gorgeous!!

Wow what an incredible spot to take in the Grand Canyon – the viewpoints are amazing! Also wow 3hrs from the nearest town, that really is in the middle of nowhere – thanks for all the practical information like making sure you have enough gas, water, food etc – hoping to tour the US at some point so this is super helpful

Wow! Love the photos! We did not get to see this area when we visited so I enjoyed seeing the photos and reading. Thanks for sharing!

The peace and quiet you describe around Toroweap Overlook just makes this a much nicer experience than the more popular outlooks visitors flock to. The Grand Canyon is grand no matter which angle you look at it, but to do so in a way where it feels like just you and nature has to be the best experience. Great tips on driving there so readers can plan how to best get the most out of the trip. Just love your spectacular photos which make me want to go as soon as possible.

I have been looking into going to the Grand Canyon recently and this article gave me all the inspiration that I needed. I am even more excited now and I am going to make sure to add Toroweap Overlook to the itinerary!

Agnes – you’re such a model! The picture of you is really great, and you are distracting viewers from awing at the sceneries 😀 As always, the pictures of these amazing landscapes are just overwhelming. I really wish I can do such a road trip one day myself – however, since I’m not driving, I’ll need a partner in…drive.

That’s why it didn’t sound familiar…it’s at the North Rim, the only one I had not visited! I have to visit then.

Absolutely beautiful!! Been to the Grand Canyon several times in my childhood. Never went to or heard of this viewpoint. I love it, will look out for it the next time!

Looks so dreamy when the sun is setting, the colors look fantastic. I would love to visit this viewpoint, you sold me with these photos! I will be adding this to my list of paces this visit, hopefully I can make a trip this year.

I have visited the Grand Canyon twice, but not yet been to the Toroweap Overlook and I can see I missed out! Spending a night at the campground there so you can enjoy sunset and sunrise sounds like a great idea. Thanks as well for the info about the reservation system.

Grand canyon is on my bucketlist. If I can mustre up the courage for the drive I would love to visit Toroweap. I love that it is complete wilderness

I haven’t been to the Grand Canyon yet, but it’s on my list. These photos are amazing. I can only imagine the majesty and grandness of seeing it in person.

I went road tripping around the Grand Canyon many years ago so your post on the Toroweap Overlook brings back memories. Id love to go back and do all the hiking there.

I haven’t really been to the Grand Canyon, so the tip on lack of services will be useful when I do visit.

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Toroweap Point

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Toroweap Point - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Toroweap Overlook Delivers Stunning Grand Canyon Views

• February 5, 2023
• By foxintheforest

Last Updated on May 2, 2024 by foxintheforest

Arguably one of the most stunning views of the Grand Canyon, Toroweap Overlook offers up a unique chance to stand right on the edge of a dizzying cliff and stare directly down on the Colorado River. The remote and rugged nature of accessing the Toroweap Overlook and Tuweep Campground certainly adds to the inspiring nature of this place.

I’ve been embarking on adventures in the Grand Canyon for the past 6 years. My mission is to explore the lesser-known corners of the canyon. Forget bustling, paved overlooks and the Rim to Rim hike – let’s dive into the quieter sections of The Ditch.

One of my favorite pastimes is taking remote trips into the canyon and being utterly inspired by what I find. From the tiniest catci bloom to breathtaking vistas, there’s a lifetime of exploring to do in the Grand Canyon. So if you’re looking to experience the Grand Canyon like a seasoned pro and not a tourist, then you’re in the right place.

About this Guide to the Toroweap Overlook

Inside this pro guide to the Toroweap Overlook and Tuweep Campground you’ll find:

• Info about how to get to Toroweap Overlook
• Hot tips for scoring a permit to the exclusive Tuweep Campground
• Practical information about visiting Toroweap

Camping at the Tuweep Campground

• Photographing Toroweap
• Things to do nearby
• Additional Grand Canyon trip planning resources

Where is the Toroweap Overlook?

You can find the Toroweap Overlook along the north rim of the Grand Canyon, pretty much in the middle of nowhere. This tiny outpost is run and managed by the National Parks system. There is a ranger station at the park entrance to check for permits and payment, but otherwise, there’s not much around for miles and miles.

The nearest town is Fredonia, although many people opt to base themselves in Kanab for day trips. In order to get to Toroweap, you’ll be traveling down 60 miles of washboard, dirt road. The last 3 to 5 miles (depending on recent rains) are down a more rugged 4×4 road.

Pro Tip : The map below shows how to get to Toroweap from the Sunshine Route (the easiest, most maintained route). You can get the full map here .

Do I Need a High Clearance Vehicle to Reach Toroweap?

In short, yes. The road past the ranger station is pretty rutted out and from there it only gets more rugged. The last 3 miles to the overlook are particularly brutal, with big sharp rock steps, deep ruts, and other obstacles.

Pro Tip: The road to the campground is similar in nature – you’ll need high clearance to camp.

With that being said, you don’t need a lifted rig to make it. I would recommend a stock 4Runner, Wrangler, or equivalent to make the journey. You’ll need 4WD with low gears coming back from the overlook, but you certainly don’t need lockers, a lift kit, or anything like that.

If you’ve got 4×4 experience in the desert, this is an easy journey. Just pay attention. However, if you’re new to 4×4 driving, certainly consider hiring a guide simply because this area is remote.

There are no services for many hours and not being prepared will cost you a minimum of $1,500 for a tow since you are no where near places like Kanab . So certainly take this trip seriously. Bring a spare tire, tool kit, tow kit, extra water, extra layers, extra food, and an emergency communication device .

Pro Tip: Do not attempt this drive if there is rain in the forecast or if it’s recently rained. Poor drainage, flash flooding, and mud can make this a treacherous journey in a hurry. You can also get stuck for days if it rains. Call the ranger station to get up-to-date info about road conditions and weather.

How to Get to Toroweap Overlook

There are three main routes to the Toroweap Overlook. The simplest, and the most maintained way is the Sunshine Route. Ideally, this is the way to go since the road to the park boundary is in the best shape.

Practical Info

Assuming you’ll be coming from the Sunshine Route, here’s a look at a few helpful tips

Cost : $2 day permit plus $35 park entry fee. Or $2 day permit and free with an America the Beautiful Pass Permit Required? Yes. Both for day use and overnights. Dog-friendly?: No dogs allowed Miles : 75.5 miles from Kanab, UT – the nearest gas station is in Fredonia, 69 miles away. Approximate time: 1.25 to 3.25 hours one-way depending on road conditions and driving ability.

Keep in mind, that most of the drive is down a washboard-ridden dirt road. There are patches of limestone in the road, so keep your head on a swivel. There are no services after Fredonia.

Sunshine Route

This is the easiest and most maintained route to the Toroweap Overlook and Tuweep Campground. Take 395 southeast out of Fredonia, AZ. From there, you’ll jump on CR 109 for 61 miles.

Remember, the last 3-6 miles of this road are rugged and require 4WD with high clearance.

Clayhole Route

From Colorado City, Arizona Take AZ 389 to County Road 5. From here it’s a long 56 miles to Toroweap, with a lot more rugged terrain. This road will be completely impassable when wet or snowy.

Main Street Route

From St. George, Utah head out on BLM Road 1069 towards County Road 5. This is the longest route – at 90 miles. It’s more scenic than the other two but more rugged. In winter or after monsoon rains, the road is impassible for quite some time due to mud.

When is the Best Time to Visit Toroweap Overlook?

As one of the best views of the Grand Canyon , Toroweap certainly is worth a visit, but you’ll want to time your trip just right.

Spring ( March through May) and fall (end of September through November) are the best times to visit Toroweap and Tuweep Campground. Personally, I prefer fall since it’s typically drier and less windy. However, late spring delivers stunning cacti blooms.

Since you’re lower in elevation than other parts of the north rim, and technically inside the Grand Canyon, summer temperatures can soar to uncomfortable levels. There is very little shade and no water, meaning you’ll probably be too hot in summer. Not to mention, pesky monsoon rains can make the journey impossible.

It can (and does) snow in the Grand Canyon in winter . Although winter visits are still possible, overnight lows make camping a little daunting.

Pro Tip: We were here in mid-October, just after the North Rim of the Grand Canyon closed for the season. We had the place to ourselves! There were only three other groups camping and we only saw 2 groups of day trippers.

2024 Day-Use Permits for the Toroweap Overlook

Thanks to the rise in popularity, day-use permits are now in effect to visit the Toroweap Overlook.

Permits are changing drastically for the Grand Canyon in 2024. Day use permits (different than camping permits) are available on recreation.go v 4 months in advance. Some day-use permits are released a few days in advance for Toroweap.

Pro Tip : Have multiple days in mind if you’re dead set on coming here. Day permits do fill up quite quickly during the busy summer months.

The gate to the Toroweap Overlook is open for day use from sunrise to sunset.

Pro Tip: There are no places to pull over and camp in your car on the way to Toroweap.

Personally, I recommend spending at least one night at the Tuweep Campground. The campground is stunning, and it’s the only place where you can car camp inside of the Grand Canyon, giving you amazing views and a great opportunity to experience the canyon in a whole different way.

In fact, Tuweep is one of my favorite national park campgrounds. It’s quiet, well-maintained, and basic. It feels a lot like dispersed camping in the desert, which is one of my favorite things.

You don’t camp right on the overlook, but about 1.5 miles away, in the Tuweep layer of the canyon. Sites are nestled against a rock outcropping and provide for some beautiful views of the area. There are also a couple of hikes nearby, which let you get out into the desert landscape and gain an appreciation for the area.

Campground Rules

There are a few things to know about the Tuweep Campground before you go. First, there are no services out here. The only amenities at the campground are a couple of composting vault toilets and picnic tables.

You are expected to bring in all of your own food and water. Also, you must pack out all of your trash – there are no trash services out here.

Other rules include:

• No campfires or charcoal fires. Only fossil fuel stoves
• No water – bring in all of your own water.
• Pack out all trash.
• No trailers/vehicles with a combined length of over 20 feet.

Permits for the Tuweep Campground

Now for the good stuff! Spending the night at the Tuweep Campground with my 3-month-old is something I’ll never forget. I’ve camped all over the desert, and the Tuweep Campground is hands down my favorite established campground.

You can nestle up against the rocks, or snag one of the few sites with mesa views. But you’ll need a permit to go.

Permits for Tuweep are now available on recreation.gov 4 months in advance. You’ll have to go through the Grand Canyon Backcountry reservation system and I highly recommend the lottery. During the busy season, camping does fill up here despite its remote and quiet reputation.

The best way to better your chances for a Tuweep camping permit is to select a range of days that will work for you. Other helpful tips include opting for a weekday visit or going during a quieter time (such as late fall or early spring).

Permits are not issued at the ranger station checkpoint, so have your permit reserved in advance. Keep in mind that they will check for permits every night.

Pro Tip: We were one of 4 groups camped on a Tuesday night at Tuweep. It was so lovely! So I’d highly recommend mid-week.

Toroweap Tours

If all of this sounds just too tedious, you can arrange a tour to take care of all the logistics for you. This is an excellent option if you don’t have a lot of experience driving 4×4 roads or you want some local knowledge.

My completely non-sponsored opinion of the best tour operator in the area is Dreamland Tours . Locally owned and operated for over 20 years, they are an excellent tour company in the area.

I’ve worked with Sunny, the owner, on various projects. She’s passionate about the land, and history, and recreating responsibly.

You can also check out some of the best sunset tours of the Grand Canyon or Grand Canyon tours from Phoenix if you need more ideas.

Best Times to Photograph the Toroweap Overlook

Photographing the overlook isn’t for the faint of heart – you’ll be perched right on the edge of a 600-foot cliff! I’m a climber, and standing there with my tripod, feeling the gentle breeze definitely gave me vertigo!

Photographing the canyon takes a little bit of practice. I’m not insanely happy with how my photos came out – but I was also working on a baby’s schedule, so I took what I could get!

Evenings will give you beautiful light on the opposite side of the canyon, while sunrise will give you that iconic sunburst shot, and light up the wall closest to you.

I highly recommend visiting the site at different times of the day to choose your shot. The middle of the day makes the canyon look a bit drab, so opt for early or late morning light. I enjoyed shooting later in the morning, once the sun had risen just a bit.

Pro Tip : If you’re not camped at the Tuweep Campground, photographing this spot is going to be a challenge since the gates are closed from sunset to sunrise.

Hiking Near Toroweap

There are two main hikes at the Toroweap Overlook, the rugged Tuckup Trail and the Saddle Horse Loop.

Saddle Horse Loop Trail

This trail is a 45-minute loop trail that is about a mile and a half long. It’s an easy trail, but there’s no shade and plenty of cacti to keep your head on a swivel.

You’ll get awesome views of the mesa and plenty of opportunities to spot canyon wildlife in solitude.

Tuckup Trail

The Tuckup Trail is a rugged and remote canyon route that winds its way along the Grand Canyon. This trail used to be used by ranchers, so it’s well established, although not well-traveled.

It’s 20 miles one-way and many parts of the trail are lightly traveled. Be prepared to find your way!

The first 3 miles from the Tuweep Campground are well-traveled and the trail is easy to follow. After that, it starts to get a bit difficult.

Water is completely unreliable, so pack what you’ll need. Do not underestimate the difficulties of hiking in the Grand Canyon, even if you aren’t clamoring up and down the canyon walls!

Kids and Toroweap

Okay, so a lot of people would say I was a bit crazy to take a 3-month-old out here – and yes, for the average person, I would not recommend it. The end of the road was rugged and not many people would be cozy having their baby that far away from anything. However, I’m well-seasoned when it comes to desert travel, hiking, and rugged adventures.

We were approached by our neighbors, who were curious about baby M. They were impressed and happy to see a young one out in the remote wilderness. It was nice to get some encouragement because despite being seasoned pros, it took a lot of guts to get out to Tuweep and give it ago!

Camping with a baby isn’t always easy, but baby M slept better than we did! She loved napping under the junipers and playing in the tent.

She was not a fan of the bumpy road. We actually had to hold her so she didn’t get knocked around too hard in the car seat – this made multiple visits to the overlook as a family pretty tough. She managed to get out there once though!

This type of experience is pretty easy for us, but having a baby took it up a few levels.

We both know how to fix basic problems in a broken-down vehicle. We carried tools, a spare tire, and a tow strap. Lastly, we had 3 extra days of water and plenty of food as well as a GPS device.

This area is pretty rough for young kids – especially those that walk and touch everything. There are cacti everywhere so if you come don’t forget tweezers and a first aid kit capable of handling cactus needles!

Older kids that enjoy the outdoors will love it. There are a few rocks to scamper around on, interesting critters running around (think lizards and mice), and plenty of space to roam.

Pro Tips for Visiting the Toroweap Overlook

Here are a few quick tips to keep in mind if you’re visiting Toroweap.

There are no services . Zilch. Nadda. Nothing. No cell service, no gas, no food, no water. Just a ranger station. Come well prepared with plenty of extra food and water. Keep in mind a tow can easily cost you $2,000. Bring a GPS with an emergency beacon.

Shade is very limited – even at the Tuweep Campground. Come prepared to sweat it out. Bring lots of extra water, sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, and even a sun shirt (my favorite accessory for desert hiking ). There’s some shade from juniper trees, but it’s limited mid-day.

Pack it out . Again, no services mean no trashcans. You’ll have to pack out your trash.

Bring tweezers. The cacti are everywhere. Sure they are pretty, but they do bite back! Consider wearing pants or high socks if you plan on going hiking.

Pack layers. The desert can get just as cold as it is hot during the night. Be sure to pack plenty of layers to stay warm.

See the overlook more than once! It’s a long drive out here, so definitely be sure to check out the overlook a few times throughout the day. It changes character and it’s pretty neat to see.

Where to Stay if You’re Not Camping at the Tuweep Campground

Your best bet for lodging near the Toroweap Overlook is in Kanab, Utah (Fredonia doesn’t have much going on). There isn’t anything in the way of dispersed camping along the way, so you’ll either be staying in town or staying pretty far from the overlook.

Kanab is an excellent home base for other awesome activities, such as White Pocket or the famous Buckskin Gulch . So if you’re spending a few days in the area, Kanab is an awesome spot.

What Happened at Toroweap Point – How it Formed

Toroweap Overlook is a bit of a crazy place in the Grand Canyon. You’ll notice as you drive in that you’re slowly driving down into the Grand Canyon. The draw formed when there was a lava flow from the Uinkaret Volcanic Field.

You can see Volcan’s Throne – the remaining cinder cone – nearby. West of the overlook there is a geographic feature called the lava falls – where the eruption (caused by the Toroweap Fault) spilled into the canyon many centuries ago.

Is Erosion Still Happening at the Grand Canyon?

Geological time is now my friends! This means that the Grand Canyon is still eroding each and every day. The Colorado River is slowly gouging out the canyon just as it has for thousands of years!

Nearby Attractions

Looking for adventures nearby? There’s plenty to do! A few of my favorites include:

• Checking out amazing hikes on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon
• Glamping in Kanab
• Visiting Horseshoe Bend
• Checking out things to do in Page, Arizona

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Additional Grand Canyon Resources

Ready to visit the Grand Canyon like a seasoned pro, not a tourist? Here are some kick-ass resources for you.

• North Rim vs South Rim of the Grand Canyon How to Choose
• Amazing Things to Do in the Grand Canyon
• The Ultimate Denver to Grand Canyon Road Trip

Meg Atteberry

Meg is a long-time Colorado local and outdoor industry professional. She's spent the last 15 years hiking, climbing, mountaineering, and canyoneering all over Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada in search of the best views. She's written for Outside Magazine, REI, Backpacker Magazine, and appeared on the Weather Channel.

Let’s connect!

Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Toddler mom, queer, and neuro-spicy her favorite things to do are climb in the alpine and camp in the desert. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure.

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Toroweap - Grand Canyon

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Toroweap (also called Tuweep) is remote lookout point in the Grand Canyon backcountry. The view is dramatic because the cliff is nearly vertical, dropping almost straight down some 3,000 feet to the Colorado River. The viewpoint offers a dramatic view of the middle part of the Grand Canyon.

Three dirt roads provide access to the area; they are graded occasionally and suitable for high clearance vehicles. The roads are generally good up to the national park boundary. From the boundary to the viewpoint the road is very rough and rocky.

The viewpoint is usually accessible year-round but roads may be closed at times by winter storms. There is a scenic, undeveloped camping area near the viewpoint. Water is not available and there is no camping fee. There are pit toilets. No other services are available at the lookout, or in the surrounding area.

Incredible views make the trip to Toroweap worthwhile. Just remember, you are on your own here - there are no visitor services.

Toroweap - Grand Canyon | Photo Gallery

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• Toroweap ranks as one of the most photogenic viewpoints of the entire Grand Canyon! It's one of the very few spots where you can look straight down on the Colorado River!
• This is a fully outfitted camping adventure.  All you need to bring is your camera gear and we'll take care of the rest ( Please note:  We are unable to accommodate special dietary needs on our campouts.  If you have food allergies, or dietary restrictions, we ask that you bring your own meals).
• Capture the full Milky Way panorama over the canyon during the months of March, April & May.  The Milky Way aligns down-canyon in Sept and Oct. Please Contact Us if you need help figuring optimal dates.
• Small group size to ensure personalized instruction and individualized attention.
• Capture the warm sunset tones, the brilliant night sky, and sunrise the next morning.

Trip Details

• Tour Departure:  Times vary depending on the season
• Tour Return:  Noon the following day.
• Tour Price:  $649 per person Loyalty Members will get 10% off.
• Instructor Gratuities : Not Included
• Drive Time:   2-2.5 hrs each way.
• Tour Meetup Location: The trip begins and ends in Kanab, UT. The address will be given in your confirmation email and is a safe place to park your vehicle. If you like, you can leave any valuables indoors.  Once you arrive, you'll load your gear and sign a liability release waiver. Las Vegas is the closest major airport to Kanab. There is no public transportation to Kanab, so you’ll need your own vehicle.
• Permits:   We hold commercial use permits for Grand Canyon National Park and the Tuweap Area.
• Hiking / Fitness : This trip is rated as Moderate.  If you want to do night photography at the rim, be prepared to do a 1.5 mile round trip hike. The park service does not allow us to drive the road at night.
• Weather Conditions: he weather is highly variable. It can be warm and sunny, or windy, cold, rainy, and at times, snowy.  Please come prepared with adequate clothing for whatever Mother Nature throws at us.  Kanab, UT is the best reference for an accurate weather forecast.
• Road Conditions:  The route out to Toroweap is very rough.  But we'll make sure you get there safely in our well equipped 4WD vehicles.  If it has been snowing, the road could become impassable due to sticky clay mud.  Should that happen, we'll schedule an alternate destination based on group consensus (we have lots of amazing spots to choose from).

• What to Bring:  You’ll need to bring any personal toiletries and medications. All participants should have a headlight (or flashlight). Don’t forget some warm clothes and a hat. It’s also a good idea to bring a water bottle (makes things like brushing your teeth much easier).
• Camping Gear: Camping gear is included (tent, sleeping bag, mattress, pillow, chair). Please do not expect luxury camping. Our goal on this trip is to maximize your photography, so we spend as little time as possible in camp. We’ll camp next to the vehicle(s) so don't worry about having to carry your gear. If you elect to bring your own camping gear, note that cargo space is limited so do not bring too much stuff.
• Food/Water: We will provide food and beverages on this trip. A hot meal will be served for dinner.  Breakfast will include coffee/tea and there is a selection of cold and warm food choices.  Please note:  We are unable to accommodate special dietary needs on our campouts.  If you have food allergies, or dietary restrictions, we ask that you bring your own meals.  We will have a water container you can use to refill any water bottles.
• What to Wear:  Check the weather forecast prior to coming on the trip (search for Kanab, UT on Weather.com). If the temperatures are cold, bring warm layers and long pants. Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen. Even when it’s warm outside, the temperature can drop quickly after the sun sets. If rain, wind, or snow are in the forecast, bring a rain jacket, a warm hat, and gloves. We recommend wearing sturdy closed-toe footwear in due to the uneven terrain and sand.
• Restroom Facilities:  There are several restroom facilities at Toroweap. The camping area also has picnic tables we can use.
• Safety:  Our guides are trained in CPR/First-Aid. All 4WD vehicles are equipped with extraction equipment and a first-aid kit. We carry a satellite beacon with us in case of emergencies outside of cell range.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here is a link to the faq section of our website where we hope to answer many of your questions  .

https://actionphototours.com/faq/

Camera Gear

• Camera Gear: You can make use of just about any lens at Toroweap. A wide angle zoom lens is useful when shooting from the canyon rim (equivalent 16-35 on a full-frame camera or 10-22mm on a crop sensor).  For night photography, your wide angle lens should be f/2.8 or faster. A mid-range lens in the range of 30-100mm will provide nice scale and compression.  Telephoto lenses will be useful for isolating rock formations in the distance. Bring as many lenses as you like - just ensure your pack isn’t too heavy for comfort. All participants should bring a tripod and a remote cord or intervalometer. For filters, a circular polarizer can come in handy when there are clouds in the sky (it’s best to avoid polarizers on cloudless days).  A neutral density filter can create long exposures for fast moving clouds. Don’t forget extra batteries, memory cards, and cleaning supplies.   Please contact us if you’d like to rent any camera gear for your outing.
• Cancellation/Re-Scheduling: Please see our Terms and Conditions .

Trusted by Over 800 Reviews

Need more information, contact us, 435-767-0222, info@actionphototours.com.

Home > USA Parks > Grand Canyon > Toroweap Point: A Fantastic Overlook on the Grand Canyon

Toroweap Point: A Fantastic Overlook on the Grand Canyon

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Amongst the many visitors who flock to the Grand Canyon there are some who return home feeling disappointed. Perhaps they would have liked to get to the point where the two edges of the canyon (North Rim and South Rim ) are so close that they almost touch each other, or they would have liked to have climbed a cliff so steep that they could admire the Colorado River from a position as steep as it is breathtaking, or they would simply have liked more time in silence to contemplate the wonders of this impressive natural gorge undisturbed, away from the crowded Grand Canyon Village .

Well, if the idea of seeing one of the most famous national parks in America in the usual way is dissatisfying and you are looking for an even more authentic experience, continue reading this article and you will discover more about Toroweap Overlook .

What is Toroweap Overlook?

1. how to get to toroweap point by car, 2. alternative method: take a tour, excursions and trails in the area, overnight stay.

Toroweap Overlook , also known as Toroweap Point or simply Tuweep , is a spectacular overlook, from which you can view the canyon and several volcanic ash mounds and lava flowing from a close position. It is protruding peak 2887 ft above the Colorado River, and it is from here that the Grand Canyon’s most beautiful photographs are taken.

Toroweap Point, unlike the more commonly visited overlooks of the South Rim and North Rim , allows you to enjoy the Grand Canyon for what it really is, a deep, awe-inspiring gorge carved out by erosion caused by Colorado River .

The name Toroweap derives from the Paiute word meaning “ barren valley ,” while Tuweep (meaning “land”) was used to refer to the settlement of Mormon pioneers who settled in the area.

The presence of the earliest human settlements in the area dates back to the Ice Age when nomadic tribes of hunters settled here in search of a milder climate. Around 2,000 years ago, the Ancestral Puebloans, also known as the Anasazi, practiced agriculture in this part of the Grand Canyon. The first documented Westerner to visit the Toroweap Point area and map it was John Wesley Powell in 1870.

How to Get to Toroweap Overlook

This wonderful overlook is located in a remote area of the Grand Canyon North Rim and your spirit of adventure will be tested as you try to drive there. There are no facilities (no gas, food, water, hotels or phones) in the area and the road will be very challenging.

Attention : Due to the increasing popularity of the site, for safety reasons, it has become necessary to limit the number of people visiting. Therefore, obtaining a daily permit or a Backcountry Permit is now mandatory to access the Toroweap Point area.

Before studying the route in detail it is good to make something clear. Not only is the road unpaved but also uneven (especially in the last 2 miles) and you can only access it with a 4×4. The official website recommends that you stock up on fuel, take along your car jack, an air compressor and tire caps (in case of flat tires).

If it rains the ground could become muddy and you must be very careful, because if you are forced to get rescued it could cost you between 1000 and 2000 dollars… and anyway apparently it is not guaranteed!

If reading this has dampened your spirits, skip directly to the next section below, to find out how to visit Toroweap Overlook on a tour, otherwise, if you are still interested, continue reading.

There are 3 main routes to Tuweep, which can be accessed from AZ 389, between Fredonia (Arizona) and St.George (Utah). You should budget at least two or three hours of driving and rely on a printed map, as the GPS signal in this area is easily lost.

• Sunshine Route : the most reliable route. Exit the AZ 389 8 miles west of Fredonia or 6.2 miles east of Pipe Spring National Monument. This 61 mile road has sharp rocks, gravel and dust. Be sure not to stop to take a break on the reservation when on the route.
• Clayhole Route : Exit AZ 389 into Colorado City, Arizona. This road is 56 miles long and impassable when wet.
• Main Street Route : This 90-mile scenic road is inaccessible in the winter due to snow and mud.

Given the challenging level of the route, many might understandably choose to go on a tour instead. Here is a link to provide you more information and also details about booking:

Toroweap Point Tour

• Dreamland Tours
• Inquire for information on the Utah tourism website

Surely stopping to admire the view from the Toroweap Overlook is in itself a unique experience worth the effort of getting there; however, once you arrive, you can also explore many other beautiful overlooks by going on hiking trails, such as the Tuckup Trail , which may be particularly interesting for those who are fascinated by the geology of the area, the Saddle Horse Loop Trail , which offers spectacular views of the Colorado River, and the Whitmore Trail , a 4-mile trail that will take you to the bottom of the canyon, right on the river. For more information on these trails, check out the official website .

There is a campground near Toroweap Poin t, but permits to spend the night there must be requested well in advance. The only alternative is to sleep in nearby cities, such as Colorado City and Hildale . You can check out the accommodation in the area by clicking on the link below.

All accommodation available in the area

Warning: Operating hours can change and closures for extraordinary events can occur, so we strongly suggest to check the venues official websites.

lorenzo puliti

I am fascinated by the wonders of the world I never tire of going in search of them.

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4 thoughts on “toroweap point: a fantastic overlook on the grand canyon”.

Why do you say: not to stop or take a break on the reservation?

Hello David, this is a rule of the National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior.

I think there is a difference between Toroweap Point and Overlook. Toroweap Point is a place high above the campground on the tip of a finger like projection above the cliffs soaring over the campground and area. Am planning to attempt an off-trail hike/scramble to Toroweap Point when I visit the area in April. There is no beta on the route, so who knows whether or not we will be successful.

Hi, yes. Technically Toroweap Point and Toroweap Overlook are two different places, but we usually use “toroweap point” to refer to the area of the Grand Canyon where the overlook is located.

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Toroweap Overlook Scenic Drive

• Print/PDF map

Try this 149.1-mile point-to-point trail near St. George, Utah. Generally considered a moderately challenging route. This trail is great for scenic driving, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are April through September.

We had a great time and it was a beautiful day. Long Rude but worth it. Just be aware most of this trail is on gravel roads with not a lot of challenge. Only place a car couldn’t go is the last 2.7 miles. Also when you go make sure you reserve your spot on line and take your permit. They are checking for them.

Ensure you go online and purchase a permit before going! It took 7 hours of driving round trip from the St. George side. Spent 75 min in awe at the Grand Canyon. Views along the way are also spectacular! 100% definitely worth the trip! I drove a 2023 Yukon XL AT4 completely stock (it does come with 33” Goodyear AT tires which I don’t really like, but they preform okay). I made it all the way to the end (including the 2.7 miles at the end of “High Clearance 4x4 Only”) with no scrapes and was only challenged the last 200 feet where I needed to pick my line very carefully. I’m a somewhat experienced off road driver, but you don’t need to be for this trail if you have a more than capable vehicle. I did air down to 20psi at the start and I feel that was necessary. Most of the gravel roads you can travel 45-55mph on when they are in decent shape. There were a few muddy spots after taking a left past the old schoolhouse, but those were snow runoffs, nothing too crazy. Would definitely not recommend going if rain is in the forecast or right after a rain, roads would definitely be impassible due to very high water (even to my SXS which I didn’t take this trip). Never really “needed” 4x4 but unless you have a RWD vehicle that you know very well, plan on walking the last section. A Subaru or other capable AWD vehicle could make it all the way except the last 2.7 miles, but it would take an extra 2ish hours of drive time plus the hike; and you would need to be familiar with your vehicle’s capabilities. The Park Ranger drove a AWD Lexus RX350 to the ranger station and a truck the rest of the way. She was very nice but adamant on checking for permits and ensuring SXSs were street legal. I saw probably 2 dozen people on the way there and back. More SXS’s than anything, a few SUVs and trucks. I would recommend ensuring you have a good spare tire, basic tools, and a pump I didn’t need it but glad I took it with me. Also pack plenty of water and food, even some extra incase you break down. Absolutely ZERO cell service once your a few miles outside of St. George. Download maps ahead of time, but there were enough signs where I probably could have done without them.

Beautiful views but very rural and rugged terrain to get to lookout. Worth the trip but definitely an all day adventure for the drive.

Fun trail! Easy dirt road to ranger station and 3 miles beyond. Then a couple of miles of easy 4-wheel driving. Beautiful.

Very nice fireroad/access road for most of the way. Much longer route on the St George side than going out near Fredonia, AZ. If I were to do it again I would go in and out the Eastern route. If you don't like going the same way twice then make it a loop. Trip took approx 8 hours with about an hour spent at the overlook. Did this in a lifted jeep but saw many stock cars and trucks do this road. The last two miles have so minor rocks to crawl over that could easily be done with most trucks or 4x4. if you don't want to do that part many prove walked in. Views were truly amazing and I really enjoyed seeing the Grand Canyon without any crowds. Highly recommend.

Great trip for a single overnight camping trip. Headed out around noon on Nov 16. We stopped a few times along the way, and got to camp around 4. It was a great trip for us and our two little girls.

Took the Toroweap road off hwy 389. Did it on my Polaris Rzr. 65 miles one way. Easy dirt road until the last 2.7 miles. The last portion of the road requires high clearance, but I don’t think it’s all that difficult. (Read some reviews here that made it sound horrible.....its not). One note, if you do go on an ATV or side by side, it must be street legal, and yes, the ranger checked. Did not see that on previous reviews. Absolutely the best views of the Grand Canyon I’ve seen. Only downside is, it is very remote, we did not pass a single vehicle all the way. We were alone on the road, no cell service. Make sure your vehicle is serviced and ready. Bring food, and lots of water, we had over 2 gallons, which I thought was plenty, just barely was enough. It was HOT. In my opinion this is a must do, bucket list type trip.

Ran road from kanab,Utah on 22may19 in a suburban, no problem. Very muddy from the endless rain and cold. Well worth the trip and the view beyond belief. Would have liked to camp here if not for the cold

I made this trip in my stock RAM 1500. I am not an avid/experienced off-roader, but this was definitely enjoyable. Start early, it takes a long time to get out and back, but the view is worth it. Any SUV or truck shoudl be able to handle the terrain. Most other cars would be able to make it up to a parking spot that's about 2.3 miles from the rim. You could hike the last portion but it gets HOT in the summer months. The most important detail to consider about your car is the ground clearance. You must have at least 11 1/2 inches, 13 inches and up will be better. My truck has a step-bar that's at 11 1/2 and I scraped the ground once (no damage, no problem). It's remote, bring enough water to hold you over for 24 hours and bring some food. I would highly recommend bringing a full-size spare tire, some basic tools, and maybe a shovel just in case yo get stuck (can't see how). I brought a "2 in. x 12 in. x 8 ft. Premium #2 and Better Douglas Fir Lumber" (cut in two pieces) which came in very handy when I had to slide under the truck to change the tire. I found the stretch from St. George more scenic and entertaining, the other stretch from/to the 389 can be done by any passenger car and is pretty simple, sometimes boring dirt road. If you are looking for a scenic drive with great views at the end and without any extreme off-road adventure - this is it!

If I could describe this trip in one word it is remote. 3/4 of the drive you could not see an sign of civilization. The views are incredible. The terrain changes so many times through the drive, you really get to see everything this area has to offer. We started on the 109 from Fredonia. Once you are on the dirt road, it starts out very groomed and wide. This continues for the first hour of driving. The gets a bit rocky as you get closer to the overlook. Some sections have some decent wash boards that will shake down your vehicle for any loose bolts. Once you've reached the ranger station. You're just under 6 miles from the overlook. This section is rough and slow. 2 Miles from the overlook there is a place to park for those without high clearance vehicles and 4WD. The last 2 miles are a crawl. I never had to engage 4WD, but it might be necessary for some. Once you've parked you have some of the most incredible views you may ever see. It is also silent, we could not hear anything. No airplanes, traffic, even people. It is truly a remote location. There are a few picnic tables and a restroom. The drive out required 4WD just to help get up some of the rocks. We were driving a 2017 Toyota 4Runner with larger tires and a small lift. It would be a challenge for anything that is not a pick-up truck or SUV. If you choose your line right I doubt you'd really need 4WD, but being this remote it's probably best if you have it. For the drive out we took the 5, which its a left turn after cattle guard just after the ranger station. This route takes you through Mount Trumbull and all the way into St. George, UT. The sun was setting and it was getting dark. Our 4Runner has a 40" light bar that made the night drive a lot easier, it would have been a little bit harder without any auxiliary lights. This route starts out as a very well groomed road. Wide enough for two cars. We drove through some snow patches along the way. We were only able to drive this route during the winter due to the lack of precipitation in the area this winter. One big storm and this road would be a challenge and there are signs that warn of this road being impassable during winter. The road gets a bit narrow when you begin to decent out of the mountain. Once you're out of the mountains, it's smooth sailing along a wide dirt road for the last leg. This was an incredible trip, so much to see. I recommend an early start so you can take advantage of as much daylight as possible. It's a little over 150 miles in the dirt, so keep an eye on your fuel. The rangers are very friendly and truly have a passion for the area. They do an outstanding job at maintaining this spot for all to enjoy. This was my first trip to the Grand Canyon, and wont be my last. I am really glad I made the journey.

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Out of the Centre

Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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