
North Rim Trail
Experience the Grand Canyon's majestic beauty from its quieter, higher elevation North Rim. Discover breathtaking vistas and serene trails.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps

North Rim Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the Grand Canyon's majestic beauty from its quieter, higher elevation North Rim. Discover breathtaking vistas and serene trails.
"The North Rim offers a more tranquil and intimate Grand Canyon experience."

🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early for parking, especially at popular trailheads like Bright Angel Point. Consider shuttle buses if available.
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water! The dry air and elevation can dehydrate you quickly. Stay hydrated on all North Rim hikes.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bright Angel Point Trail
Near Grand Canyon Lodge
Panoramic views of the canyon's vastness. Easy, paved walk perfect for sunset. A must-see on the North Rim.

Cape Royal Trail
Southern end of North Rim Drive
Gentle, paved path leading to breathtaking overlooks and Angels Window.

Point Imperial
Eastern end of North Rim Drive
Highest viewpoint on the North Rim, offering expansive vistas and a sense of immense scale.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your North Rim Adventure
North Rim vs. South Rim
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Canyon Village: Should I hike North Rim or South Rim first?
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early for parking, especially at popular trailheads like Bright Angel Point. Consider shuttle buses if available.
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water! The dry air and elevation can dehydrate you quickly. Stay hydrated on all North Rim hikes.
Canyon hike vs. lookouts? What type of traveler are you?
🥾 Sturdy Footwear
Wear comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes. Trails can be rocky and uneven, even the easier ones.
🧥 Layer Up
Weather changes rapidly. Pack layers, including a rain jacket, even in summer. Mornings and evenings can be cool.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early for parking, especially at popular trailheads like Bright Angel Point. Consider shuttle buses if available.
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water! The dry air and elevation can dehydrate you quickly. Stay hydrated on all North Rim hikes.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear
Wear comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes. Trails can be rocky and uneven, even the easier ones.
🧥 Layer Up
Weather changes rapidly. Pack layers, including a rain jacket, even in summer. Mornings and evenings can be cool.
🗺️ Trail Maps
Download or pick up a Grand Canyon North Rim trail map. Cell service is spotty.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the North Rim's serene atmosphere and breathtaking, less-crowded vistas. The accessible trails like Bright Angel Point are a major draw, offering stunning views without strenuous effort. However, the limited operating season and remote location mean planning is essential, and services are more sparse than on the South Rim.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The North Rim is accessible via Highway 67 from Jacob Lake. It's a scenic drive, but be aware that it's a remote location. The nearest major airport is in Las Vegas (LAS), about a 4.5-hour drive away.
Yes, but it's a long drive, approximately 4-5 hours around the eastern side of the canyon. Many visitors choose to focus on one rim or the other for a single trip.
Highway 67 is generally well-maintained, but always check for seasonal closures or weather advisories, especially outside the main operating season.
Limited shuttle services may be available within the developed areas of the North Rim, primarily connecting the Grand Canyon Lodge to viewpoints. Check the NPS website for current schedules.
While technically possible via the strenuous Corridor trails (like the North Kaibab Trail), it's an extremely challenging multi-day backpacking trip requiring permits and significant preparation. It's not a day hike.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a standard Grand Canyon National Park entrance fee is required per vehicle. This fee is valid for 7 days and covers both the North and South Rims.
The North Rim is typically open from mid-May to mid-October. The Grand Canyon Lodge and visitor services operate within these dates. Always check the official NPS website for exact opening and closing dates.
Absolutely! Lodging and campsites at the North Rim book up months, sometimes a year, in advance. It's highly recommended to book as early as possible.
Parking at most trailheads within the North Rim developed area is free, but spaces are limited. Arriving early is crucial for securing a spot.
The park entrance is accessible 24/7, but visitor services, lodging, and campgrounds will be closed outside of the official operating season.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Bright Angel Point Trail and Cape Royal Trail are paved, relatively flat, and offer stunning canyon views with minimal effort.
Yes, the North Kaibab Trail descends into the canyon and is very strenuous. Day hikes are possible to certain points, but hiking to the river and back in one day is strongly discouraged.
The North Rim sits at an elevation of about 8,000 feet (2,438 meters), making it significantly higher than the South Rim. Be prepared for thinner air.
You might spot mule deer, Kaibab squirrels (unique to the North Rim), coyotes, and various bird species. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed wildlife.
Absolutely! The North Rim offers dramatic light and expansive vistas, especially at sunrise and sunset from viewpoints like Bright Angel Point and Cape Royal.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Grand Canyon Lodge offers dining options, including a dining room with canyon views and a deli. There are also picnic areas available.
A small general store is available at the Grand Canyon Lodge, offering basic groceries, snacks, and souvenirs. It's advisable to bring some of your own supplies.
Yes, picnic areas are available throughout the North Rim. This is a great option for saving money and enjoying the scenery.
Dining hours vary seasonally and by establishment. It's best to check the current operating hours upon arrival or on the NPS website.
Options can be limited, especially in the more casual eateries. It's wise to inquire directly with the dining facilities or pack accordingly if you have specific dietary needs.
📸 📸 Photography
Bright Angel Point and Cape Royal are iconic for sunset. Point Imperial offers incredible sunrise views. The light changes dramatically throughout the day.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Formal photography tours are not commonly offered by the park service. However, many visitors find inspiration and share tips in online photography groups.
The 'golden hours' shortly after sunrise and before sunset provide the most dramatic and flattering light. Midday sun can be harsh.
Yes, but always maintain a safe and respectful distance. Use a zoom lens to get close-up shots without disturbing the animals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember that the North Rim is at a higher elevation, so take it easy on your first day to acclimate. Wildlife sightings, like Kaibab squirrels, can be a highlight for kids. Ensure children stay on trails and away from canyon edges at all times.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Focus on the free viewpoints and easy, accessible trails like Bright Angel Point Trail and Cape Royal Trail. These offer the iconic Grand Canyon experience without any cost beyond the park entrance fee.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Remember that cell service is unreliable, so download offline maps and plan your shots in advance. The less crowded nature of the North Rim can allow for more contemplative photography sessions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking the North Rim Trails
When planning your hikes, remember that the North Rim sits at a higher elevation (around 8,000 feet) than the South Rim. This means thinner air and potentially cooler temperatures, even in summer. Always carry ample water, wear sturdy hiking boots, and be prepared for rapid weather changes. Popular day hikes include the Bright Angel Point Trail and the Cape Royal Trail, both offering spectacular views with minimal exertion.
For those interested in longer treks or backpacking, securing permits well in advance is crucial. The Arizona Trail also passes through the North Rim, offering opportunities for thru-hikers and section hikers. Researching specific trail conditions, water availability, and weather forecasts is essential for a safe and enjoyable hiking experience on the North Rim.
Experiencing Bright Angel Point
Visitors often describe the feeling of standing at Bright Angel Point as awe-inspiring, with the sheer scale of the Grand Canyon laid out before them. It's a fantastic place for photography, offering sweeping panoramas that capture the immense depth and breadth of the canyon. Even if you're not an avid hiker, the short walk to Bright Angel Point is a must-do for any visitor to the North Rim.
Be aware that due to its popularity, Bright Angel Point can get crowded, especially during peak season and at sunset. Arriving a bit earlier than sunset can help you secure a good viewing spot. The trail is also accessible for those with mobility challenges, making it a truly inclusive experience.
Navigating the North Rim Drive
Each viewpoint along the North Rim Drive provides a different angle and scale of the canyon. Point Imperial offers a vast, sweeping vista, while Cape Royal provides a more intimate, yet equally breathtaking, perspective. The drive itself is relatively short, allowing you to stop at multiple points and soak in the scenery. Remember to check for any seasonal road closures or advisories before you set out.
Many visitors recommend taking your time along the North Rim Drive, stopping at pull-offs for impromptu photo opportunities and to simply appreciate the grandeur. The drive is also a good opportunity to spot wildlife, such as mule deer or Kaibab squirrels. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated areas for a truly memorable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit