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Moran Point: A Grand Canyon Vista

Experience panoramic views of the Grand Canyon's geological wonders from Moran Point, a South Rim vista named for artist Thomas Moran.

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Moran Point, located on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, offers panoramic views of the canyon's geological history and the winding Colorado River. Named after artist Thomas Moran (though some believe it was named for his brother Peter), this popular spot inspires photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

A brief summary to Moran Point

Local tips

  • Arrive early or late in the day to avoid crowds and capture the best lighting for photography.
  • Bring binoculars to enhance your viewing experience and spot wildlife in the canyon.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the paved paths around the viewpoint.
  • Stay hydrated and apply sunscreen, as the desert sun can be intense.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions in the canyon can change rapidly.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Grand Canyon Village, drive east on Desert View Drive (Highway 64) for approximately 18 miles. Moran Point will be on your right, with a dedicated parking area. Parking is free, but the lot can fill up quickly during peak season. An entrance fee of $35 is required to enter the park and is valid for 7 days.

  • Public Transport

    From Grand Canyon Village, board the free Blue Route shuttle bus. Stay on the bus until you reach the Moran Point stop. Check the shuttle schedule for accurate times. The shuttle is free to use once inside the park.

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Discover more about Moran Point

Moran Point is a renowned viewpoint on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, celebrated for its expansive vistas and geological significance. Situated a few miles east of Grand Canyon Village, it provides easy access to breathtaking scenery. The point is named after the landscape painter Thomas Moran, whose work captured the beauty of the American West and helped to promote the Grand Canyon as a national treasure. However, some historians suggest it may be named for his brother, Peter Moran, who explored the area in the early 1880s. From Moran Point, visitors can witness the Grand Canyon's layered Paleozoic rocks, the Grand Canyon Supergroup, and the Vishnu Basement Rocks, offering a glimpse into the Earth's ancient past. The Colorado River, carving its way through the canyon, is also visible from this vantage point. The viewpoint is located directly south of Cape Royal on the North Rim; though only eight miles apart across the canyon, driving between them requires a journey of hundreds of miles. Photographers and painters are drawn to Moran Point to capture the ever-changing light and shadows that play across the canyon walls, especially during sunrise and sunset. The viewpoint also offers a stunning perspective of Red Canyon, where John Hance established a mining operation.

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