Hike North Vista Trail - North Rim
What to Expect
Safety Advisory
The canyon rim has no guardrails at several overlooks along this trail. The rock is often loose and crumbly near the edge — stay well back, especially with wind. A fall into the inner canyon is not survivable.
The Green Mountain summit section is fully exposed with no shade or shelter. Afternoon thunderstorms roll in fast during July and August — if you see clouds building over the West Elks, turn around. Lightning on an open summit is no joke.
Trail Details
Pro Tips
Hit the trail early morning — the North Rim gets far fewer visitors than the South Rim, but the Exclamation Point spur still draws a midday crowd. Starting by 7:30 AM means you'll have the overlooks to yourself.
There is no water on this trail and very little shade once you leave the juniper forest. Carry at least two liters per person, more if you're pushing to Green Mountain on a summer afternoon.
The Exclamation Point overlook faces roughly south-southwest — late afternoon light paints the Painted Wall and inner canyon walls in deep golds and reds. If photography is your goal, consider a late-day out-and-back to just the spur rather than the full Green Mountain loop.
Photos
NPS/D. Goodman
