I debated long and hard about including the Toroweap Overlook and the Tuweep Campground because I want to keep the west wild. But a little research and a visit to the NPS website convinced me the wave of tourists and adventurers is already swelling beyond idle curiosity so maybe I can provide some further tips and information for those wondering if it’s a destination they should truly discover.

I should get this bias out of the way immediately before going into any description of the place; the Tuweep area is one of the most amazing places I’ve ever been in my life. I brought my wife there when we were just dating the one and only time I’ve ever been and it was a truly unforgettable experience in a relationship that’s been full of them. That being said, you should know it is a long, difficult, bumpy journey to reach the incredible natural treasure chest that is the northwestern rim of the Grand Canyon.

The Toroweap Lookout looms at a dizzying sheer 3,000 foot drop above the Colorado River. Looking over the edge, even flat on your stomach, is disorienting. First though, you have to reach the lookout which requires a 4WD High Clearance vehicle, some knowhow, and a lot of patience. From the Utah border in Colorado City, Arizona it’s about a 60 mile drive through some of the bumpiest and slowest country as you descend down to the very north rim of the Grand Canyon. There are plenty of signs that guide the way which are helpful if you haven’t planned out the journey but the really tough part is the end and without a 4WD High Clearance vehicle, you aren’t making it to the campground or the overlook. The Tuweep Campground, as of early 2021, had brand spankin’ new toilets and a few more sites thean I had found in my research. The sites though, are wonderful and sit just back from canyons that lead to the Grand one. They’re also a short hike to the Overlook, they have great sunrise views, and they’re truly a dark sky zone at night.

The view though from the Overlook though… out of this world. It really does take your breath away and make even the hardiest lover of heights a little dizzy. The spot is perfect at sunrise, sunset, and any time of day just be careful and mindful of others when you’re enjoying the view. As always, please no music blaring. At the Overlook there’s a pit toilet, which is nice because sippin’ beverages and toasting with loved ones is the perfect sunset dizzying height adventure activity.

When my wife and I were there, we had a Sheriff Deputy bouncing quickly and violently in his truck over sharp rocks approach us on our twilight walk back to our campsite. He asked if we had seen a motorcycle recently who had gotten lost and possibly in a wreck that someone else had reported. It’s a dangerous and a secluded area so bring everything you need in and take it all back out. It’s a nice three hour drive to the nearest town and if you’re too fast, you could lose a tire or worse.

The NPS website said they’ll soon be implementing more restrictive measures on account of the convoys, damage, and overcrowding which… I understand but I hate. They’re keeping the west wild at the expense of freedom. If you’re prepared and respectful though, the area is a dream come true and I implore everyone to buy and study maps and contact me for more info on the drive and the experience.