by Lisa Winters, Communications Associate
Millions of people flock to Grand Canyon National Park each year, but only 10 percent of visitors experience it from the North Rim. Getting there takes extra time and effort, but you won’t be disappointed in the solitude you’ll find. The North Rim is only 10 miles across from the South Rim as the raven flies, but the drive between the two takes over four hours (there’s a pesky mile-deep canyon in the way). Or, if you have the legs for it, you can hike rim-to-rim, starting from the south side.
A thousand feet higher in elevation, the North Rim is several degrees cooler and is known for its lovely meadows surrounded by aspen, ponderosa, and fir forests. Snow closes the road into the park during the winter months, so plan your visit between May 15-October 15, unless you’re ready to strap on some snow shoes or cross country skis.
Here’s how to make the most of your trip to the north rim of Grand Canyon National Park.
MICHAEL QUINN, NPS
Gaze at the geologic masterpiece through the massive windows of the Grand Canyon Lodge. Built in 1928, the lodge is perched on the rim of the canyon and is made of local Kaibab Limestone. Be sure to rub the shiny nose of Brighty, the bronze mule statue featured prominently in the lobby, for good luck. The porch to the side of the lodge is filled with chairs and benches, an inviting place to swig a cold one after a long day of exploring.
Getting there: Take Highway 89A to Jacob Lake, Arizona. Continue south on Highway 67 for 43 miles. Stop at the Jacob Lake general store for their famous fresh-baked cookies on the way. Be prepared for limited services: fill your gas tank at Jacob Lake, the North Rim Country Store (25 miles down Highway 67), or at the gas station located by the North Rim Campground.
The North Kaibab Trail plunges into the canyon, an absolute must-do when visiting the North Rim. For a nice day hike, turn around at Supai Tunnel (3.4 miles round-trip), Redwall Bridge (7 miles round-trip), or Roaring Springs (9.5 round-trip). Or, grab a backcountry permit and head all the way down to the Colorado River to spend a night at Bright Angel Campground.
Looking for a stroll with views but without the strenuous switchbacks? Check out our favorites:
MICHAEL QUINN, NPS
There’s no shortage of views at the Grand Canyon, and getting to some of the most iconic ones involve hopping in your car. Point Imperial is the highest point on the North Rim (8,803 feet) and overlooks the Little Colorado River Gorge, Marble Canyon, and the Painted Desert far beyond. Cape Royal has sweeping vistas to the east and west. A short jaunt down the trail from the parking area will bring you to Angels Window, through which you can spot the Colorado River and the Desert View Watchtower — a small blip on the horizon — across the canyon on the South Rim. Stop at the Walhalla Glades Pueblo on your way back for a sneak peek at what life in the canyon was like for the canyon’s early residents.
Note: Grab a sandwich to go from Deli in the Pines and eat at one of the many picnic areas along the route. The only other food options are at Grand Canyon Lodge (reservations recommended) or the North Rim Campground general store.
Scamper down the Bright Angel Point Trail located behind the lodge for excellent views of the canyon at sunset. The colors of the rock layers change as light rays disappear from the canyon walls and shadowy illusions form. The lack of light pollution at this remote destination means you’re soon treated to a starry night sky. Take the time to appreciate the sounds of a quiet park: the rustle of wind in aspen leaves, the clatter of a Kaibab squirrel scurrying up and down a ponderosa pine, the ‘kraaak’ of a Clark’s nutcracker as it eyes your snack. There may be less people on the North Rim of the park, but the wildlife is plentiful. Be a respectful visitor and enjoy the quiet getaway.
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