By Dmitri KesselLIFE Photo Collection
One of the undisputed natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon is a huge valley carved into the rock of Arizona by the Colorado river. Among America's most iconic landscapes, in some places it stretches over a mile deep and 18 miles wide. Scroll on to explore this geological marvel from home...
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1. Mather Point
For many visitors approaching from the South Rim, Mather Point is the first glimpse of the natural wonder that lies ahead. It’s located just a short walk from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, as well as parking lots 1 to 4. From here you get a panoramic view of the canyon, with views as far as 30 miles on a clear day. At the bottom of the canyon, you can catch a glimpse of the glistening Colorado River below, as well as the multiple trails traversing the landscape.
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This is a really popular spot to take in sunrise and sunset throughout the year but be sure to get there early to get a good spot, as it can get busy. The viewpoint is named after Stephen Tyng Mather, the first director of the National Park Service and supporter of public lands.
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2. Hopi Point
Located along the South Rim trail and breath-taking Hermit Road - and also famed for being a prime sunset location - Hopi Point offers stunning views out over the canyon and river to the west. You can see as far out as Havasupai Point and the Great Scenic Divide, as well as 2,000 feet down to the Dana Butte. In the distance, the vast mesa stretches out seemingly endlessly in front of you .
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Hopi Point extends further out into the canyon than some of the other viewpoints, particularly on the Hermit Road. That means it can get busy but it’s well worth navigating the crowds.
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3. Plateau Point, Bright Angel Trail
Unlike the viewpoints above, Plateau Point is not reached by car but on foot. In fact, it’s a 10-mile trek out and back along the Bright Angel Trail. This means it might not be for everyone but for those willing and able to make the journey, the rewards are well worth it.
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Every step along the trail takes you a little closer to sensational views out over the Colorado River as it winds its way through the canyon. There are also views of endless mesas and plateaus on the horizon. And, because of the relative inaccessibility, you won’t have to battle the crowds for the best photo opportunity.
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4. Angel’s Window, North Rim
You can see Angel’s Window from Cape Royal on the North Rim. It’s located on the southern tip of the Grand Canyon’s Walhalla Plateau, about a half-mile of easy walking path off of the main trail. You can see the Colorado River through the ‘window’ or continue on the trail across the arch to a viewpoint on the very edge of the outcrop.
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The natural limestone arch gives the viewpoint its name. Line it up right and you can see the Colorado River glistening through the aperture for a stunning photo opportunity.
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5. Ooh Ahh Point, South Kaibab Trail
This fabulously named viewpoint is located just under a mile from the South Kaibab Trailhead. It is a steep descent and probably not for those with a fear of heights but if you have got the stomach for it, it is well worth the effort. You will be rewarded with panoramic views of the inner canyon unlike any others you can find.
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The viewpoint is located 600 feet below the canyon along a trail that follows the ridge line. There are unobstructed views out over the canyon, with the whole trail taking between one to two hours.
By Dmitri KesselLIFE Photo Collection
By Frank ScherschelLIFE Photo Collection
Want to see more of the Grand Canyon?
You can discover more about the Grand Canyon National Park and take in even more stunning vistas here.
