Mather Point

Picture of Mather Point. Credit: NPS

When tourists enter from the South Main Entrance to the South Rim, the usual initial destination is the Visitor Center Plaza and its public parking lots. For those tourists seeing the Grand Canyon for the first time, Mather Point Overlook is the first view of the immensity of the canyon. It's an easy walk from the parking lot to Mather Point. If you've packed a picnic lunch, it's a great place to relax after a long drive. Kickback and relish that first magnificent view.

Visitor Center and Parking Near Mather Point. © Credit: NFS

Gaze across the canyon to the North Rim. Although the other side is only about 10 miles as the Condor flies, it would take driving 212 miles to reach the other side. Peer down to the bottom of the canyon which is about a mile deep at this point. Just imagine that it took 6 million years for the Colorado River to carve the canyon as it flowed another 500 miles to reach the Sea of Cortez at the Pacific Ocean.

Pictures of Mather Point at the Grand Canyon South Rim

Mather Point is the most visited overlook point and the most congested. If you've arrived at Mather Point during the day, return just before sunset in the evening or sunrise the next morning when the changing colors create amazing views. Of course any points along the Rim Trail are great spots to see the dancing array of colors.

Since you've now been introduced to the amazing scenes to expect during your upcoming exploration of the Grand Canyon South Rim and its incredible experiences, consider making your way back to the Visitor Center. Explore the outdoor and indoor exhibits. Pickup maps and ask questions about the best way to enjoy your visit.

Pictures of Mather Point at the Grand Canyon South Rim

Rangers will be glad to provide answers to your questions and to explain the Free Shuttle Bus System that will conveniently take you to and from various points in the Grand Canyon Village and the other overlook points. You are in for the time of your life.