North Rim of the Grand Canyon Must Sees
The Lesser Known, Tranquil Side of Things
Cape Royal, North Rim, Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon evokes a sense of awe with its endless expanses of red sandstone vistas and breathtaking panoramic views . There is truly nothing like seeing it in person.
Most visitors flock the South Rim because of its easy access year-round and for its unobstructed views. However, if you are searching for solitude and serenity, the North Rim might just be the perfect spot for you.
The North Rim of the Grand Canyon rises above the canyon floor over 8,000 feet, almost a 1,000 feet higher than South Rim, in the remote stretches of the park. It’s the perfect spot to escape the crowds and get lost in the deafening sound of silence as you find yourself standing at the edge of the world looking out over the abyss.
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THINGS TO SEE:
North Rim Scenic Drive
Compared to the South Rim, the North Rim Scenic Drive is definitely the road less traveled. The winding scenic drive takes you along stretches of road to two popular viewpoints and several pullouts with sweeping panoramic views. Two must see spots along the way are Point Imperial and Cape Royal.
Point Imperial is the highest point on the rim at 8,803 feet in elevation and overlooks the Painted Desert with its contrasting shades of crimson red and black on the eastern edge of the canyon.
Cape Royal is the southernmost viewpoint on the North Rim that offers an incredible view of endless vistas.
The Cape Royal trail is a 1 mile out-and-back and leads to the area above Angels Window, a natural arch in the cream-colored Kaibab limestone that perfectly frames a small section of the Colorado River down below.
Given its location, it’s the perfect spot for both sunrise and sunset so it actually can get crowded. Note that vehicles over 30 feet are not recommended on the roads to Point Imperial and Cape Royal.
The North Rim Scenic Drive also takes you to Roosevelt Viewpoint and Walhalla Overlook for more incredible views.
Bright Angel Point
Located near the Grand Canyon Lodge, just a short walk down a paved trial is Bright Angel Point, one of the most classic North Rim viewpoints. From here, you get a bird’s eye view of Bright Angel Canyons and Roaring Springs area.
The trail is 0.5 miles round-trip with a few steep spots and drop-offs. It includes some stairs and has a few narrow, exposed areas. Regardless, the trail is paved and is still a great hike for kids.
North Kaibab Trail & Roaring Springs
Roaring Springs is a rushing cascade of water flowing down the canyon walls into the Colorado River below. The only way to see it is an arduous hike down the North Kaibab Trail.
Although the trail is well-maintained, the hike is quite strenuous, taking almost 5 miles to get there. The good news is that once you reach it, it’s the perfect spot to cool off by taking a refreshing dip in the fresh mountain water. The water here is so clean and pristine that it’s the source for the Grand Canyon’s free water bottle filling stations.
North Rim Mule Trips
Want to explore the marvels of the Grand Canyon up close and personal? Consider taking a descent down on the back of a sure-footed mule on a guided trail ride.
Mules have been carrying visitors down the steep canyon since the 1880s when tourists first started arriving including past Presidents like Theodore Roosevelt. These rides continue to remain a staple of the classic Grand Canyon experience.
There are several different options with rides typically ranging from 1 to 3 hours long. It’s a great way to explore the backcountry and breath in the fresh mountain air and the smell of juniper forests.
TIPS FOR VISITING:
Entrance fees to Grand Canyon National Park are valid for 7 days and include both the North Rim and South Rim.
You can now buy digital passes online in advance at recreation.gov.
The North Rim is only open to vehicles from May 15th through October 15th due to winter road closures. This area has been known to get as much as 23 feet of snow in a single year.
During the off-season, cross-country skiers and backpackers can still enter the park with a valid backcountry permit.
The North Rim is the the coolest, wettest location in the park with an average of 25.8” of moisture each year. Spring and early summer are the driest times of year. Be sure to check the forecast before visiting so you can be prepared.
The elevation of the North Rim is over 8,000 feet above sea level. If you have heart or respiratory problems, you may have difficulty. Walking at this elevation can be strenuous even if you are in great physical health.
Distances can be hard to gauge and deceiving here. Be sure to bring plenty of water and salty snacks on hikes.
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