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North Rim Trail

4.6
·491k reviews·, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

May & October mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant temps

CrowdLow
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Lower Falls

North Rim Trail

Best Time

May & October mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The North Rim offers a more tranquil and intimate Grand Canyon experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bright Angel Point Trail

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

Cape Royal Trail

Southern end of North Rim Drive

Gentle, paved path leading to breathtaking overlooks and Angels Window.

Point Imperial

Point Imperial

Eastern end of North Rim Drive

Highest viewpoint on the North Rim, offering expansive vistas and a sense of immense scale.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your North Rim Adventure

The North Rim is only open mid-May to mid-October. Plan your visit during this window to experience its unique beauty. Early mornings are best for avoiding crowds and heat, especially if you're aiming for popular spots like Bright Angel Point.

North Rim vs. South Rim

The North Rim offers a more remote and less crowded experience than the South Rim. If you're seeking solitude and stunning, less-trafficked views, the North Rim is your destination. Hiking the North Rim trails requires preparation for elevation and variable weather.

Best Times

When
May & October mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Crowd
Low
When
June-August afternoons
Why
Monsoon storms often pass
Crowd
Medium
When
September evenings
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

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. Reddit

💧 Hydration is Key

Carry plenty of water! The dry air and elevation can dehydrate you quickly. Stay hydrated on all North Rim hikes. TikTok

reddit.com

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. Instagram

🧥 Layer Up

Weather changes rapidly. Pack layers, including a rain jacket, even in summer. Mornings and evenings can be cool. Reddit

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. Reddit

💧 Hydration is Key

Carry plenty of water! The dry air and elevation can dehydrate you quickly. Stay hydrated on all North Rim hikes. TikTok

🥾 Sturdy Footwear

Wear comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes. Trails can be rocky and uneven, even the easier ones. Instagram

🧥 Layer Up

Weather changes rapidly. Pack layers, including a rain jacket, even in summer. Mornings and evenings can be cool. Reddit

🗺️ Trail Maps

Download or pick up a Grand Canyon North Rim trail map. Cell service is spotty. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

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

Peaceful atmosphere
Stunning, uncrowded views
Accessible viewpoints

What People Dislike

Limited season
Remote location
Fewer services

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

Highway 67 is generally well-maintained, but always check for seasonal closures or weather advisories, especially outside the main operating season. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

Parking at most trailheads within the North Rim developed area is free, but spaces are limited. Arriving early is crucial for securing a spot. Reddit

The park entrance is accessible 24/7, but visitor services, lodging, and campgrounds will be closed outside of the official operating season. TikTok

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

Bright Angel Point Trail and Cape Royal Trail are paved, relatively flat, and offer stunning canyon views with minimal effort. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

Absolutely! The North Rim offers dramatic light and expansive vistas, especially at sunrise and sunset from viewpoints like Bright Angel Point and Cape Royal. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Instagram

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. TikTok

Yes, picnic areas are available throughout the North Rim. This is a great option for saving money and enjoying the scenery. Reddit

Dining hours vary seasonally and by establishment. It's best to check the current operating hours upon arrival or on the NPS website. Instagram

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. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Bright Angel Point and Cape Royal are iconic for sunset. Point Imperial offers incredible sunrise views. The light changes dramatically throughout the day. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok

Formal photography tours are not commonly offered by the park service. However, many visitors find inspiration and share tips in online photography groups. Reddit

The 'golden hours' shortly after sunrise and before sunset provide the most dramatic and flattering light. Midday sun can be harsh. Instagram

Yes, but always maintain a safe and respectful distance. Use a zoom lens to get close-up shots without disturbing the animals. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The North Rim is a fantastic, less crowded option for families. The Bright Angel Point Trail and Cape Royal Trail are paved and easy for little legs, offering incredible views without strenuous effort. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as services are limited. TikTok Consider a picnic lunch at one of the scenic spots. The Grand Canyon Lodge area offers amenities and ranger programs that can be engaging for children. Instagram

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. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

Camping is the most budget-friendly option on the North Rim, but sites book up far in advance. Bringing your own food and having picnics is a great way to save money on dining, as restaurant options are limited and can be pricey. Reddit Utilize the free shuttle services if available to save on gas and parking hassles. TikTok

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. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The North Rim offers unparalleled photographic opportunities, especially during the golden hours. Bright Angel Point and Cape Royal are prime locations for sunset, while Point Imperial is ideal for sunrise. TikTokInstagram Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness and a tripod for low-light conditions. Be prepared for dramatic light shifts and consider capturing the unique flora and fauna, like the endemic Kaibab squirrel. TikTok

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Hiking the North Rim Trails

Hiking the North Rim offers a more secluded and rugged experience compared to its South Rim counterpart. The North Rim Trail itself is a relatively easy, paved path that connects various viewpoints near the Grand Canyon Lodge, making it accessible for most visitors. For those seeking more adventure, the North Kaibab Trail is the only maintained trail that descends into the canyon from the North Rim. This is a strenuous, multi-day backpacking route, and attempting to hike to the river and back in a single day is highly discouraged due to extreme elevation changes and heat. Reddit

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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok

Experiencing Bright Angel Point

Bright Angel Point is arguably the most iconic and accessible viewpoint on the North Rim. Located just a short walk from the Grand Canyon Lodge, the Bright Angel Point Trail is a paved, relatively flat path that winds its way to a dramatic overlook. This spot is particularly popular for sunset, where the canyon walls ignite with color as the sun dips below the horizon. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

Navigating the North Rim Drive

The North Rim Drive is a scenic route that extends east from the Grand Canyon Lodge, offering access to several stunning viewpoints. This drive is a fantastic way to experience the diverse perspectives of the Grand Canyon without extensive hiking. Key stops include Point Imperial, the highest viewpoint on the North Rim, and Cape Royal, which features the unique Angels Window arch. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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