Cape Royal Road

The most scenic road on the North Rim side of Grand Canyon National Park is Cape Royal Road. It runs from the North Rim Entrance Road to Cape Royal, passing several other overlook spots on the way.

Mile 0 – North Rim Entrance Road

The Cape Royal Road begins at its intersection with the North Rim Entrance Road.

Mile 5.4 – Road to Point Imperial

The road reaches a Y intersection. A turn toward the left will reach Point Imperial, pictured to the left, in 2.7 miles. Continue to the right to follow the Cape Royal Road.

Mile 8.0 – Greenland Lake

On the right is Greenland Lake. Along with the rather uncommon lake, there is also a restored cabin on the southeast side of the lake.

Mile 10.0 – Vista Encantada Picnic Area

The road goes by the Vista Encantada Picnic Area on the left. This may be billed as a picnic area, but it is also a stunning viewpoint. As a result, it is one of the most scenic places for a picnic we have seen anywhere.

Mile 11.7 – Roosevelt Point

The next overlook the road approaches is Roosevelt Point. This viewpoint was named in honor of Theodore Roosevelt, the US President responsible for much of the National Park System, including Grand Canyon. He famously said of the canyon in 1903 “Leave it as it is. You cannot improve upon it. The ages have been at work on it, and man can only mar it. What you can do is keep it for your children, your children’s children, and for all who come after you, as the one great sight that every American should see.”

Mile 17.2 – Cape Final Trailhead

The road passes by a small parking area for the Cape Final Trailhead. This trail leads about two miles to a viewpoint of the canyon at Cape Final.

Mile 18.2 – Walhalla Point

The Walhalla Overlook is on the left side of the road. This is yet another outstanding viewpoint of the canyon.

Mile 19.7 – Cape Royal parking area

The road ends at the parking area for Cape Royal itself. A paved and easy trail leads a short way to Angel’s Window and Cape Royal. These are arguably the best viewpoints on the North Rim and should not be missed by anyone.