Cape Royal Trail

Cape Royal Trail is an 800 meter path along the North Rim of Grand Canyon that connects several overlooks with views of the Colorado River and canyon walls. The paved walkway guides visitors through natural gateways and past rock formations carved by water and wind over millions of years.

The trail was developed as a visitor route to provide access to overlooks at the North Rim, making this remote section of the canyon more accessible to tourists. For centuries before this development, indigenous peoples traveled and lived in the lands surrounding this area.

Native American tribes inhabited the lands surrounding Cape Royal Trail for generations, establishing deep connections with this section of the Grand Canyon.

The path is easier to visit from May through October when the road to Cape Royal is fully open, though it can be walked at other times when conditions allow. Bring plenty of water since there is little shade and the sun reflects strongly off the rock at this elevation.

Angel's Window is a natural stone arch that frames canyon views at one point along the path and stands out as one of the most distinctive rock shapes at the North Rim. This formation is especially striking during early morning or late afternoon light when shadows emphasize the texture of the canyon walls.