Tuweep Grand Canyon

Tuweep, also known as Toroweap is one of Grand Canyon National Parks least visited places. Located off the North Rim of the western Grand Canyon the closest towns are Fredonia, AZ and Kanab, UT. Named after the Toroweap formation in Toroweap Valley, it is mostly sagebrush and high desert on the drive to the rim of the Grand Canyon. Off the main dirt road is a maze of side roads with access to remote destinations along the North Rim and Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument. This is also how you access the Bar Ten Ranch, a little know Dude Ranch that is typically used by River Rafting companies who fly their clients in from Las Vegas to raft the lower Grand Canyon.

Once you arrive at Tuweep, a lone Ranger Station that is totally self-sustained occupies this desolate, yet beautiful landscape. Water is scarce here and even the Ranger Station uses a rain catchment system or hauled water to supply their needs. Nestled at 4,600 feet in elevation, the West Rim’s open plains meet the rim and offer raw and beautiful views of Grand Canyon National Park and Tuweep's rugged landscape. Read the guide below to learn about exploring the Tuweep Area, or check out our Tuweep Map to see all the nearby destinations and attractions.

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Tuweep Destinations and Services

Be safe if you travel to this remote area: There are 60 miles of dirt road between this destination and the nearest pavement outside Fredonia, AZ. No services, including gas, water or food are available at Toroweap or the 60 miles of dirt road on the way. Play it safe and make sure you’re prepared if you plan on visiting this remote area.

Tuweep and Toroweap Point Permits

A spectacular and frequently photographed vista of the Grand Canyon with the Colorado River below, Toroweap Point is a remote and amazing Grand Canyon destinations to visit. Permits are now required for both Day Use and Backcountry Use along with a Park Pass or Site Pass to visit the Tuweep Area, which includes all park areas within Toroweap Valley and on the Kanab Plateau. You can You can get Tuweep Area Day Use Tickets here. To learn more about regulations and visiting the Tuweep Area check out Grand Canyon National Parks Tuweep Information Page.

Tuweep Campground

Among the activities in this area is the Tuweep Campground, which sits a-top a layer of beautiful red sandstone, and offers some amazing vertical views of the Colorado River below. This is a great remote site for Grand Canyon explorers looking for a campground outside of the summer season when temperatures are extremely hot and uncomfortable. Backcountry permits are required for camping and overnight use at Tuweep Campground, or you can learn more about learn more about general Grand Canyon camping and campgrounds options here.

Lava Falls Trail

Slightly west of the Campground is the Lava Falls trail. Don't be fooled by the short mileage of this route, it is one of the Grand Canyon steepest trails. This route leads down to the Colorado River, and to Lava Falls one of the canyons largest and most challenging rapids. As the name states, there is lava rock everywhere on this trail from the volcanic activity that used to be common in this area, and created Lava Falls.

The Esplanade

If you want to get away from it all, especially in the cooler seasons, Tuweep offers a remote landscape absent of visitors and full of wilderness. For the experienced Grand Canyon hiker, there is the Esplanade Trail, and several other routes into the canyon which are known for their isolation and rare polychrome pictograph sites. This unique destination is a must for Grand Canyon Aficionados, and modern-day explorers.

Guru Tips for Exploring Tuweep

Tuweep is a beautiful and rugged Grand Canyon destination with great options for hiking, backpacking, camping and exploring. Here’s a couple tips for making the most of a trip to Tuweep in Grand Canyon National Park.

Lodging and camping options

The closest town to Tuweep with good lodging options is Kanab, Utah. Check out our guide to Kanab, UT to find hotel options, attractions and information.
Advanced permits are required for Tuweep Campground.
Another great option to explore areas like Tuweep and other nearby attractions is to rent a small RV or Camper Van with good ground clearance. Outdoorsy has a ton of options from camper vans and RVs.

Book a tour or ticket before you get to the canyon

A guided tour is a great way to really experience the Grand Canyon and there's some great options near Tuweep.
Check out our guide to Kanab, Utah to find some great tours near Tuweep.

Get geared up

Make sure you have the right gear and supplies before you travel to Tuweep. This is a remote area and being prepared is a must to have a good trip and for your safety.
We’re definitely gear junkies here at the Grand Canyon Guru. Check out our recommended gear for our favorite canyon-ready clothing, travel bags and outdoor gear as well as rental options to outfit your trip.

More resources for your Tuweep trip

It always a good idea to have travel insurance for your trip. Check out rates and get travel insurance before you head to the canyon.
If you need more booking options for hotels, rental cars, flights, tours and tickets just check out our Grand Canyon reservations page.
Take a look at our featured tour and recommended lodging close to Tuweep below.

Best Tuweep Area Tour - Utah Slot Canyons Adventure

This fully guide tour starts in Kanab, UT an hours drive from Tuweep. Experience Utah's amazing slot canyons on this popular trip, from $128 on Viator.