Fondly known as the observer's paradise, this mesmerizing viewpoint provides far-reaching, panoramic views over the Grand Canyon, making it an extremely popular destination among nature enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers. Its dramatic landscapes, changing with the movement of sunlight and the shifting shadows of clouds, offer unique and unparalleled beauty that truly epitomizes the phrase - 'a feast for the eyes.'
Historically, Point Imperial Drive was dedicated in 1963 to the memory of Francois Matthes, a geologist whose remarkable work greatly contributed to our understanding of the Grand Canyon's formation process. While most of the North Rim exists on Kaibab Plateau, an area of 1,152 sq km, Point Imperial overlooks the Painted Desert and the eastern end of the Grand Canyon, while the mighty Colorado River silently carves its way thousands of feet below.
The primary allure of Point Imperial Drive lies in its plethora of stunning vistas. Offering vivid perspectives of Vista Encantada and Roosevelt Point, a visit here is like stepping into a living, breathing painting. The unforgettable view of the gorges formed by the junction of the Little Colorado River and the Colorado River takes the breath away with their craggy, deeply carved edges. Not to be outdone, the Mt. Hayden, recognized by its iconic prominence and its imperious isolation, is a thrill for photographers, particularly during sunrise or sunset when the light plays magic on its surface.
Another noteworthy feature of the Point Imperial Drive is the contrast it exhibits with its surrounding territories. On one side, you see the Kaibab Plateau’s higher altitude grasslands, sprinkled with wildflowers and dense forests, and on the other, you’ll witness an unearthly landscape filled with unusual rock formations and drastic color variations created by the Painted Desert and the Grand Canyon.
In essence, Point Imperial Drive is a haven for anyone with escapist tendencies, offering scale and viewpoint of the enormous grandeur of the Grand Canyon that is unparalleled. It provides intimate encounters with the wilderness marked with patches of burnt-out forest, intruding deer, and the occasional passing of the endangered California Condor. Experiencing such majestic, raw, and powerful sights is an incredible life-altering experience which every visitor to Arizona should seek out. It’s not just a point of interest, but a gateway to exploring earth's age and the creative power of nature.
