Although the average width of the Grand Canyon is 10 miles, it can take more than four hours to drive from the South Rim to the North Rim. But those who venture to the north side are greeted with smaller crowds, cooler temperatures (spring snowfall is not out of the question), and just-as-impressive views.
This year’s season at the North Rim will run five months, as Grand Canyon National Park will open the entrance at 7:30 a.m. May 15, with all services operating through Oct. 15.
During that period, services provided by the National Park Service – including the Visitor Center, Backcountry Information Center, and campground, as well as the Grand Canyon Association bookstore – and Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim operations – including lodging, groceries, camper services, food services, and the gas station – will be open.
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Although the last day for most services and regularly scheduled ranger-led programs will be Oct. 15, the Park Service will continue its operations, including the Visitor Center, bookstore, and Backcountry Information Office, through Oct. 31.
From Nov. 1 to Dec. 1, the North Rim will be open for day use only (no overnight parking) unless snow closes Highway 67 prior to that date. During that time, pay-at-the-pump gas and diesel will be available, and visitors will continue to have access to the Point Imperial and Bright Angel viewpoints, as well as the North Kaibab Trailhead.
After Oct. 31, camping will be available to those who walk or hike in (no car camping) at the North Rim Campground, provided a backcountry use permit has been obtained. These permits will continue to be available at the South Rim Backcountry Information Center and the Visitor Center at Pipe Spring National Monument in Fredonia, Arizona.
For information about services available at the North Rim, visit the park’s website.
Although the gate to the North Rim will not open until May 15, the Arizona Department of Transportation will open Highway 67 at Jacob Lake at 1 p.m. May 13.
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