Grand Canyon National Park South Rim scenic landscape

Shoshone Point Grand Canyon: Hike, Views & Directions

Originally written by Tony Subia

Updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on September 2, 2026

Shoshone Point overlook at the Grand Canyon South Rim

Photo of Shoshone Point Overlook. Credit: NPS

Shoshone Point is a quieter Grand Canyon South Rim overlook reached by an approximately 2.4-mile round-trip walk through pine forest. The mostly level route leads to expansive canyon views, picnic facilities and an exposed overlook where visitors can experience a more secluded side of the South Rim. The area is also used for permitted group events, so public access and facility use can vary when the site is reserved.

Shoshone Point Hike
Views & What To Expect
Safety & Facilities
Group Events & Reservations
Directions To Shoshone Point
Photo Gallery
Shoshone Point FAQ

Grand Canyon views from Shoshone Point on the South Rim

Shoshone Point Views & What To Expect

Shoshone Point offers broad views across the Grand Canyon from a relatively secluded section of the South Rim. The overlook is reached away from the busiest developed viewpoints, giving visitors an opportunity to enjoy canyon scenery, photography and a quieter atmosphere after the walk through the forest.

Shoshone Point can be reserved for permitted group events such as weddings, reunions and other gatherings. When the area is reserved, public access may be restricted. Because reservation periods, access rules and permit requirements can change, check current information with Grand Canyon National Park before planning your visit.

Scenic overlook at Shoshone Point Grand Canyon South Rim

Shoshone Point Hike

The walk to Shoshone Point is approximately 1.2 miles each way, making the round trip about 2.4 miles. The route follows a mostly level road through pine forest before reaching the event area and canyon rim. The page's existing route description notes a modest elevation gain of about 200 feet near the overlook.

Access begins near a locked gate along Desert View Drive. Visitors continue on foot along the road toward Shoshone Point. There is no drinking water at the destination, so carry enough water for the entire outing and allow sufficient time to return before dark.

Shoshone Point Safety & Facilities

Shoshone Point has exposed canyon edges, and some areas do not have guardrails. Stay well back from drop-offs, supervise children closely and use extra caution during rain, snow, ice or strong winds. Do not approach the rim while impaired by alcohol or any substance that could affect balance or judgment.

The developed area includes picnic and event facilities, but availability for general public use may be restricted. There is no drinking water at Shoshone Point, and overnight camping is not permitted. Winter conditions can make the route slippery or snow-covered, so visitors should check current conditions before starting the hike.

Shoshone Point Group Events & Reservations

Shoshone Point may be reserved for permitted group events such as weddings, reunions, memorials and similar gatherings. The developed event area includes a covered pavilion and picnic facilities. Reservations, group-size limits, available dates, fees and facility rules are established by Grand Canyon National Park and should be confirmed directly with the National Park Service before planning an event.

Special-use rules apply to reserved events, including requirements concerning fires, waste, parking and use of the site. Firewood collection within the park is prohibited, and fire restrictions may affect whether fires are permitted. Review the current National Park Service permit requirements before arriving.

Shoshone Point is a day-use area and overnight camping is not permitted. The canyon rim includes exposed areas without guardrails, so event organizers and visitors should supervise children carefully and keep all guests safely away from drop-offs.

Vehicle access and parking are limited, and special arrangements may apply to permitted events. When Shoshone Point is reserved, public access can be restricted. Visitors who are not attending a permitted event should check current National Park Service access information before making the trip.

See the complete guidelines of use.

Grand Canyon National Park Contact Information

Grand Canyon National Park
Commercial Services Division
3 Camper Services
PO Box 129
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023
grca_permits_mail@nps.gov
Telephone: 928-638-7888
Special Use Permit

Directions To Shoshone Point

Shoshone Point is accessed from an unsigned turnoff along Desert View Drive on the Grand Canyon South Rim. The existing route is described as being east of Yaki Point Road, with a locked gate restricting normal vehicle access to the unpaved road leading toward the point. Because access conditions and road restrictions can change, confirm current directions with Grand Canyon National Park before your visit.

Shoshone Point Photo Gallery

Shoshone Point overlook and Grand Canyon scenery

Shoshone Overlook

View from Shoshone Point

Sunset over the Grand Canyon from Shoshone Point

Sunset at Shoshone Point

Shoshone Point Grand Canyon FAQ

Where is Shoshone Point?

Shoshone Point is located along the Grand Canyon South Rim and is accessed from Desert View Drive. Visitors normally reach the overlook on foot from a gated access road.

How long is the hike to Shoshone Point?

The walk is approximately 1.2 miles each way, for a round-trip distance of about 2.4 miles.

Is the Shoshone Point hike difficult?

The route is generally described as an easy, mostly level walk through pine forest, although there is some elevation change near the rim. Conditions can become more difficult during snow, ice or bad weather.

Is there drinking water at Shoshone Point?

No. Visitors should carry enough drinking water for the entire walk and their time at the overlook.

Are there guardrails at Shoshone Point?

Some areas near the canyon rim do not have guardrails. Visitors should stay well back from exposed edges and supervise children carefully.

Can you camp overnight at Shoshone Point?

No. Overnight camping at Shoshone Point is not permitted.

Can Shoshone Point be reserved for weddings or group events?

Shoshone Point may be available for permitted group events. Reservation requirements, availability, fees and group limits should be confirmed directly with Grand Canyon National Park.