Mather Point Grand Canyon National Park

Last October on our way home from Cottonwood, Arizona we stopped at the Grand Canyon South Rim. This was an absolute highlight of the trip, so I wanted to share our experience with you and a few tips that I learned. Mather Point is one of the most famous and most heavily trafficked areas of the park.  With that being said,  it is that easy for a reason.  Don’t skip it. The views are phenomenal and with a little patience,  you will get the perfect photos.

The area is fenced but that doesn’t mean that you can relax with your littles and animals. It is also very busy, so be watchful. There are all sorts of rocks, so you can take pictures at varying heights and angles. You can get a full 180 degrees here and see so many gorgeous views of the Grand Canyon from Mather Point.

With the recent updates to the parking lots, visitor center and area by Mather Point you should be able to access it easier than ever before. If you have time (and don’t have a pet) I would recommend parking here and ride on the free trolly/bus service to the main points of the west side of the South Rim.

Mather Point Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon National Park is located in Arizona. There is a North Rim and a South Rim as well as an East entrance that will bring you in near the Desert View Tower (my favorite part of the day). Mather Point was our first stop since we went in through the south entrance. It was busy,  even in Oct. so keep that in mind.  We got in about 10 and by the time we left the Desert View Tower to head home,  it was about 4. We spent time sightseeing but a portion of that was also spent driving between viewpoints.

Here are some of my favorite photos from our stop:

Here are a few tips to help you when you go:

• Dogs are allowed on almost all of the South Rim trails.  On the North Rim trails, dogs are only allowed on a couple.
• If you go in summer it is very hot.  Stay hydrated and protect your skin from burns.  If you go in the fall like we did, take a light jacket.
• The drop-offs and edges are NOT all secure, so keep your eyes on your littles and your pets, and hold their hands (or leashes) tight.
• Take a LOT of pictures and be sure to be in them. That’s half the fun! (need a selfie stick?)
• Plan out your trip ahead of time so you have an idea of what you want to do. This will save valuable time.

I hope you get the chance to visit the Grand Canyon National Park soon and especially see the views from Mather Point! I loved just taking it all in. There are rivers, ranches, trails, and so much more you can spot from the top. Let us know if you have any questions and we will try and answer them! Happy Trails!

Over the next several weeks we are also going to be sharing more about Yavapai Point and Geology Museum, Grandview Point, Moran Point and the Desert View Watchtower. What next on your travel list?