Create an account sign-up-diamond

Start your adventure today.

Already a member? Login

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
192 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
6.9 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

Cape Final

Panorama of the Cape Final hike in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Measurement:

Download an interactive map and guide on your phone today!

Table of contents

The mostly flat trail leading out to the rim of the stunning Cape Final isn’t the most well known, but it’s definitely well worth it. Here you will get absolutely fantastic panoramas of the Grand Canyon as well as views down to the Colorado River.

Route Description for Cape Final

From the small, wooded parking lot follow the unmarked, but very obvious trail as it snakes through the forest. This trail is extremely similar to Shoshone Trail on the South Rim, however is approximately twice as long. By that we mean that it is a wide, mostly flat trail going through a forest towards secluded yet scenic view of the canyon.

As the path continues you will have a handful of small hills to climb, but they shouldn’t pose any physical challenge. After just over a mile you will reach your first view of the Canyon. This is the eastern-most trail we list, so you will get fantastic views of the deserts lining the east rim as well as the earlier sections of the Colorado River.

The trail then veers right and continues along the side of the rim, still undulating up and down before you finally reach a sign identifying Cape Final. Here you will also find a few backcountry campsites. Clamber up the rocky point to admire the fantastic views of the eastern section of Grand Canyon National Park. If you peer directly across you will mostly likely be able to see a small smudge on the horizon. This is the tower of Desert View on the South Rim! Return the way you came.

Insider Hints for Cape Final

  • Inquire at the backcountry permit office to get a camping permit for Cape Final. It is a fantastic, easy backpacking trip!

Getting to the Cape Final Trailhead

From the north entrance to Grand Canyon National Park continue until you reach the first junction. From here turn left onto the extremely narrow and winding Scenic Drive, with signs for Cape Royal. This road is not recommended for large vehicles and RV’s, because it is incredibly tight! Follow this road for most of its length until you reach a small sign for the Cape Final parking lot on the left. This small lot is easy to miss! If you reach the Cape Royal parking area at the end of the road you’ve gone approximately 3.0mi too far.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    Spring and Fall, avoid summer heat. Access Road closed Oct-May

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    None

  • Toilets:

    None

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Low to Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Cape Final Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Reviews

0.0
No reviews
Write a review
×

Add a review

You must be logged in to post a comment.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP

Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.

Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!

10Adventures Trail App

Take your trails online! Keep track of your route along the way.

Download for free today.

Get travel inspiration and discounts

Join our weekly travel newsletter