Cape Final Trailhead, Kaibab National Forest Travel Guide

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Discover panoramic Grand Canyon views on this easy North Rim trail, perfect for a secluded and unforgettable hiking experience.

Hike the easy-to-moderate Cape Final Trail on the Grand Canyon's North Rim for stunning panoramic views of the eastern canyon, Vishnu Temple, and the Painted Desert. This 4.2-mile roundtrip trail offers a relatively secluded experience, traversing a forested path to a breathtaking vista.

A brief summary to Cape Final Trailhead

North Rim, Arizona, 86052, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cape Final Trailhead.

Bring plenty of water, as there is no water available along the trail.
Wear sun protection, as there is limited shade at the viewpoint.
Obtain a backcountry permit from the North Rim Backcountry Information Center if you plan to camp.
The North Rim, including Cape Royal Road, is typically open from May 15 to October 15.

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Explore Cape Final Trailhead on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Cape Final Trailhead, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From the North Rim Visitor Center, drive south on Highway 67. Turn left onto Cape Royal Road, located approximately 3 miles before the Grand Canyon Lodge. Follow Cape Royal Road for 12.5 miles. The Cape Final Trailhead will be on your left, 2.4 miles north of the Cape Royal parking lot. Park in the small dirt parking lot at the trailhead. Note: RVs over 22 feet and vehicle-trailer combinations over 22 feet are not permitted on Cape Royal Road. Grand Canyon National Park Entrance Fee: $35 per vehicle, valid for seven days, covering both North and South Rims. Alternatively, an America the Beautiful Pass can be purchased for $80, providing access to all federal recreation sites for one year.
Shuttle

While there is no dedicated shuttle service directly to the Cape Final Trailhead, the Trans-Canyon Shuttle provides seasonal transportation between the North and South Rims. From the South Rim, take the Trans-Canyon Shuttle to the North Rim. From the North Rim Lodge, you will need to drive or arrange for a taxi to the Cape Final Trailhead. Trans-Canyon Shuttle: $120 per person, one-way. Taxi service from the North Rim Lodge to Cape Final Trailhead: Approximately $80 - $100.

Discover more about Cape Final Trailhead

The Cape Final Trailhead marks the beginning of a rewarding hike to one of the most spectacular viewpoints on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Located on the Walhalla Plateau, the trail offers a unique perspective of the canyon's vastness and beauty. The 4.2-mile roundtrip trail is generally considered easy to moderate, with a relatively flat path and an elevation change of 465 feet, making it accessible to a wide range of hikers.The journey to Cape Final takes you through a serene ponderosa pine forest, offering shade and glimpses of the eastern Grand Canyon through the trees. The trail is well-maintained, and the path is easy to follow. As you approach Cape Final, the forest opens to reveal a breathtaking 270-degree panorama. From this vantage point, you can see the Vishnu Temple, Jupiter Temple, the Palisades of the Desert, and even the Colorado River far below.Cape Final provides a sense of solitude and tranquility, away from the more crowded viewpoints. The remote location and the stunning scenery make it a must-see destination for those seeking a deeper connection with the Grand Canyon. Camping is permitted along the last half-mile of the trail with a valid backcountry permit, offering a unique opportunity to experience the canyon under the stars. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection, as there is no water available along the trail and limited shade at the viewpoint.