Grand Canyon North Rim
The North Rim is the quiet side of Grand Canyon National Park. Only ten miles from the South Rim as the crow flies, its takes 4 hours driving time to get to the North Rim from Grand Canyon Village. The North Rim is on average 1,000 feet higher than the South Rim resulting in a very different ecosystem. This higher elevation also results in higher snowfall, which closes the North Rim from the first major snowstorm (usually in late November) until May 15th. Facilities at the North Rim are open May 15th through October 15th every year.
The North Rim is a great place for those looking for more solitude on their Grand Canyon vacation. This part of the Canyon really feels like a National Park, and is worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the other side. The North Rims alpine like environment is more reminiscent of a drive through the mountains than a trip to Arizona. Towering Ponderosa Pines, Aspen Groves, and beautiful meadows will greet visitors here, alongside a laid back atmosphere. There is only one North Rim lodging option inside the Park, but there are two other options between the North Rim and Jacob Lake. There are a few tour guides and fewer scheduled activities, but for those of you who love to hike the canyon and explore one of the seven wonders of the world without mobs of people around, you're heading to the right place. Read the guide below to learn more or check out our North Rim map to see all the North Rim attractions and destinations.
The North Rim is closed for the remainder of the 2025 season due to impacts from the Dragon Bravo Wildfire. The North Kaibab Trail also remains closed for the foreseeable future due to post-fire impacts. While the South Rim remains open and continues to welcome visitors, there is currently no access to the North Rim via Hwy. 67 or to North Rim facilities. In July 2025, the Dragon Bravo Fire destroyed or severely damaged approximately 106 structures and severely damaged, the North Rim water pipeline, electrical utilities, and the wastewater treatment plant. At this time, it is too early to say whether the North Rim will reopen for day use in 2026. In addition, Highway 67, the sole access road, remains closed for the foreseeable future due to post-fire hazards.
Learn about North Rim: Destinations, Featured Tours, Visitor Centers
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