Only the most persistent and adventurous reach this "other side" of the Grand Canyon. Getting there is not so easy, as you might guess. You've got two options—it's either a 21 mile (34 km) hike from South Rim across the Canyon to North Rim or a five-hour drive of 220 miles (354 km). But, the solitude of the area is definitely worth the effort.
If you are ready to explore the classic North Rim views, go for a hike starting at Grand Canyon Lodge patio and proceeding to Bright Angel Point. The paved trail is followed by a more challenging path, steep in places, marked with drop-offs, and stairs at places, it finally leads to the Roaring Springs and Bright Angel Canyons known for dramatic panoramas.
Drivers love the scenic routes taking them to two other great locations. The first one is Point Imperial, the highest tip of the North Rim, set at 8,803 feet (2,683 meters) above the sea. The main prize is the view of the Painted Desert and Grand Canyon's east end. Precambrian rocks are dazzling with layers of red and black, which are unfortunately not visible at Bright Angel Point.
Another location reached by car is Cape Royal. This one is particularly valuable as it provides unlimited vistas up, down, and across the canyon, both to the east and west. Not surprisingly, it's a popular spot to watch sunrise and sunset.
Unlike the South Rim, the North Rim is closed for winters due to snow. Visitors are welcome to discover the North Rim from mid-May to mid-October. If the snow doesn't close highway 67, the North Rim will still operate in November, just "dawn to dusk" and with limited services. Reservations are to be made if you want to stay in the Grand Canyon Lodge or its Campground.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit the North Rim in Grand Canyon?
From mid-May to mid-October, the North Rim is open to visitors. The highway 67 leading to North Rim may still be accessible in November but operates only 'dawn to dusk' and with limited services. Winter snowfall makes the North Rim inaccessible. To ensure a comfortable trip, it is best to visit between the months of May and October. Show more
What are some scenic drives to explore in North Rim?
Point Imperial and Cape Royal are two impressive scenic drives that offer many breathtaking views in North Rim. Point Imperial is situated at 8,803 feet and presents stunning views of the canyon's east and west ends and the Painted Desert. Cape Royal is renowned for its sunrise and sunset views and offers different perspectives of the Canyon to the east and west. Show more
How to reach North Rim from South Rim?
The North Rim can be reached from South Rim by driving 220 miles or hiking the 21-mile North Kaibab Trail. The hike goes across the canyon and is very challenging. An alternate way to get to the North Rim is through Page, Arizona. It's an excellent route to take if you want to avoid the tedious hike or long drive and see the canyon's beauty from a different angle. Show more
Which are the two great locations accessible by car in North Rim, and what sights can be seen there?
To witness the unique Precambrian rocks with red and black layers, Point Imperial, located 8,803 feet above the sea level, is the place to be. The location offers a picturesque view of the east end of Grand Canyon and Painted Desert. Cape Royal, accessible by car, is renowned for its sunrise and sunset views, offering a panoramic view of the canyon's east and west ends. Show more
What are the North Rim operating hours, and what services are available?
The North Rim welcomes visitors from mid-May to mid-October each year, and during winters, heavy snowfall makes it inaccessible. If the highway to North Rim remains open, it operates for 'dawn to dusk' with limited services. The operating services include lodging, camping, food, dining, and a Grand Canyon Association bookstore. Therefore, it is better to plan a visit between May and October to access all of the North Rim's services. Show more
