Plateau Point
Cliff Grand Canyon viewpoint offering canyon rim and river vistas
A day‑hike destination on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon offering a Colorado River overlook; reached by trails and popular with hikers seeking river views.
How to Get to Plateau Point #
Plateau Point is reached from the South Rim via the Bright Angel/Funnyjack Trail network (often accessed from the Bright Angel Trailhead near Grand Canyon Village). It is a long day hike; check current trail conditions and National Park advisories before setting out.
Tips for Visiting Plateau Point #
- Start early: hikes to Plateau Point are long and temperatures in summer can be extreme.
- Bring a permit for overnight stays below the rim; day-hikers should carry plenty of water and a headlamp for early starts.
- Sit on the promontory at sunrise or late afternoon to avoid midday heat and to see the Colorado River change color.
Best Time to Visit Plateau Point #
Plateau Point is best in spring and autumn when temperatures below the rim are manageable; summer brings intense heat and increased risk for heat-related illness.
Weather & Climate near Plateau Point #
Plateau Point's climate is classified as Hot Desert - Hot Desert climate with very hot summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 0°C to 40°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 11°C and lows of 0°C. Light rainfall.
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February
February is cold with highs of 15°C and lows of 3°C. Light rainfall.
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March
March is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 6°C. Light rainfall.
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April
April is cool with highs of 25°C and lows of 9°C. Light rainfall.
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May
May is mild with highs of 30°C and lows of 14°C. Almost no rain.
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June
June is warm with highs of 36°C and lows of 19°C. The driest month with just 4 mm.
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July
July is the hottest month with highs of 40°C and lows of 23°C. Light rainfall.
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August
August is hot with highs of 39°C and lows of 22°C. Light rainfall.
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September
September is warm with highs of 34°C and lows of 19°C. Light rainfall.
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October
October is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 12°C. Light rainfall.
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November
November is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 5°C. Light rainfall.
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December
December is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 1°C. Light rainfall.