Maricopa Point

The first viewing station found along Hermit Road after the Trailview Overlook, Maricopa Point is located just over a mile away from the Bright Angel Trailhead and all the attractions that Grand Canyon Village has to offer. Maricopa Point provides tremendous views of the Grand Canyon and Colorado River in three directions. Nearby visitors will also note the shell of the historic Orphan Lode Mine.

Maricopa Point History and Background

Moving westward, Maricopa Point is the second stop on the Hermit Road along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Given its proximity to Grand Canyon Village—it is just 1.2 miles from here to Bright Angel Trailhead, which stands at the eastern end of the Village—Maricopa Point can at times get a little crowded. However, its wide-ranging views, providing stunning sightlines of the canyon (and Colorado River) in a number of directions, are not to be missed. One of the more historically significant manmade structures along the South Rim is also visible from Maricopa Point. The Orphan Lode Mine, site of a claim that was first staked in 1891, can best be viewed from here. The long history of operations on this location have included mining projects for copper and uranium ore. Today the Grand Canyon National Park owns the property and is overseeing efforts to restore the site.

What’s at Maricopa Point

At Maricopa Point a tremendous range of views are available. The vantagepoints here extend uninterrupted for some distance in three directions. In the canyon below, it is possible to see the Colorado River, as well as a series of mesas appearing between Horn Creek and Garden Creek. Bright Angel and Dana Butte are also visible from this spot, as well as the famous, unique natural formation that goes by the name of the Battleship.

Those visitors interested in walking options will want to stop at Maricopa Point, as multiple trails pass around/near this spot. The path between Maricopa Point and its neighboring attraction to the east, Trailview Overlook, is paved—making it suitable for hikers of all levels. Likewise, to the west Maricopa Point connects easily with Powell Point. There you will find not only more breathtaking views of various canyon formations, but you can explore the Powell Memorial. This unique stone structure, dedicated in 1920, honors Major John Wesley Powell for his work in exploring the Colorado River and the Grand Canyon during the late-19^th Century.

Maricopa Point is quite close to Grand Canyon Village and its core amenities. Just 1.2 miles separate the two locations. In Grand Canyon Village you will encounter a wide variety of essential services, as well as several different kinds of offerings involving food, drink, restrooms, lodging, and of course, souvenirs. Other popular attractions here include the Grand Canyon Train Depot, Lookout Studio, and Hopi House.

Tips for Visiting Maricopa Point

• Maricopa Point is the best place in Grand Canyon National Park from which to glimpse Orphan Lode Mine—so if you want pictures of this famous mining operation, make certain to stop here with your camera ready!
• The 0.7-mile path between Maricopa Point and Trailview Overlook is entirely paved and slightly downhill, making it a pleasant, accessible stretch of the Rim Trail for those with mobility issues.
• From Maricopa Point it is only 0.5 miles to Powell Point. Consider skipping the shuttle bus for this half-mile in order to enjoy the stroll to one of the Park’s most beloved spots for sunset viewings.