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Mather Point: Gateway to the Grand Canyon

Experience the Grand Canyon's breathtaking beauty from Mather Point, an iconic and easily accessible South Rim viewpoint with panoramic vistas.

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Mather Point, named after the first director of the National Park Service, Stephen Mather, is a popular and easily accessible viewpoint on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Offering sweeping panoramic views, it's often the first glimpse of the canyon for many visitors, providing a stunning introduction to this natural wonder.

A brief summary to Mather Point

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially for sunrise or sunset, as Mather Point can get crowded.
  • Take advantage of the free shuttle bus to avoid parking hassles.
  • Walk along the Rim Trail for equally stunning views with fewer crowds.
  • Visit the nearby Canyon View Information Plaza for maps, books, and information about the park.
  • Bring water and wear sunscreen, especially during the warmer months.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Mather Point is a short, paved walk from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center. From the visitor center, follow the well-marked path north towards the canyon rim. The walk is approximately 5 minutes and offers accessible pathways for all visitors. There are no fees associated with walking to Mather Point.

  • Public Transport

    Take the free Kaibab/Rim Route (orange) shuttle bus from various points in Grand Canyon Village to the Mather Point stop. From the bus stop, a short walk will take you to the viewpoint. The shuttle runs frequently, especially during peak season. Check the National Park Service website for the current schedule. There is no cost to ride the shuttle bus.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from various locations in Grand Canyon Village to Mather Point. A taxi ride from the Grand Canyon Village to Mather Point is approximately 5 minutes and costs between $7 and $9. Contact Xanterra South Rim at +1 928-638-2822 for taxi services.

  • Parking

    Parking is available at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center in lots 1-4. From the parking lots, Mather Point is a short walk. Parking is free, but lots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arrive before 10 am for best chance of finding a space. Lot 1 has pull-through spaces for RVs and vehicles with trailers.

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Discover more about Mather Point

Mather Point, located on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, is a must-see destination for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike. Named in honor of Stephen Mather, the first director of the National Park Service and a key figure in establishing the Grand Canyon as a national park, this iconic viewpoint offers an unforgettable introduction to the grandeur and scale of the canyon. Situated a short walk from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, Mather Point is easily accessible and provides a wide, unobstructed panorama of the canyon's vastness. From this vantage point, visitors can gaze across the ten-mile expanse to the North Rim and peer into the mile-deep abyss, contemplating the immense power of the Colorado River that carved this natural wonder over millions of years. The colorful layers of rock, including the Kaibab Limestone, Coconino Sandstone, and Vishnu Schist, tell a story of geological history. Mather Point features two overlooks with safety rails, providing secure vantage points for taking in the breathtaking scenery. The views stretch from Bright Angel Trail in the west to the South Kaibab Trail in the east, encompassing landmarks such as Pipe Creek, O'Neill Butte, and the Tonto Trail. The location is particularly popular at sunrise and sunset, when the changing light transforms the canyon walls into a vibrant display of colors. Beyond the views, Mather Point also offers modern conveniences, including the nearby Canyon View Information Plaza with exhibits, a bookstore, and food vendors. The Mather Point Amphitheater hosts ranger programs, providing insights into the canyon's geology, history, and ecology. A medallion honoring the tribes associated with the Grand Canyon is embedded in the walkway.

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