Grand Canyon North Rim

The basics

While not as popular as the South Rim, the North Rim offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Visitors based in Las Vegas can get a bird’s-eye view of the North Rim aboard a helicopter or airplane flightseeing tour, with the option to add an ATV ride or Jeep tour for close-up views from the ground. Since the Hoover Dam is along the route from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon North Rim, many visitors and tours stop there first.

Things to know before you go

• The North Rim is a must-see for nature lovers and outdoors enthusiasts.

• See the rim on aerial air tours or from the ground in a Jeep or ATV.

• Due to the distances involved, Grand Canyon North Rim tours from Las Vegas can last up to 10 hours.

• There isn’t much shade at the Grand Canyon, so remember to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.

• The general Grand Canyon National Park entrance fees cover the Grand Canyon North Rim tickets—no separate tickets are required for the North Rim.

• There’s a dedicated North Rim visitor center situated near the parking area and Bright Angel Point, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the North Rim. Park rangers are usually available to answer questions; however, hours may vary, so it’s best to check the current schedule before visiting.

How to get there

The Grand Canyon North Rim runs into both Arizona and Nevada, and is part of Grand Canyon National Park. The North Rim is about 275 miles (442 kilometers) east of Las Vegas and about 207 miles (332 kilometers) from Flagstaff in Arizona. If you’re not visiting on a tour, you can get there by car by taking Highway 89A to Highway 67/North Rim Parkway. A Trans Canyon shuttle runs between the South Rim and the North Rim when the North Rim is open between May and October.

When to get there

The best times to visit the Grand Canyon are in early autumn and late spring, when temperatures are cool and the crowds are sparser than in summer. Visitor facilities at the North Rim are open from mid-May to mid-October, and it’s possible to visit the area until the first snowfall closes the road from Jacob Lake until it melts again in spring.

North Rim day hiking

The Grand Canyon North Rim offers some spectacular trails for day hikers, including rim hikes with stellar views of the inner canyon or even hikes down into the canyon itself.

The Bright Angel Point Trail can be hiked in as little as 30 minutes along a paved path, with excellent views the entire way. The three-mile (4.8-kilometer) round-trip Transept Trail follows the rim from Grand Canyon Lodge to the North Rim Campground, while the more challenging North Kaibab Trail to Roaring Springs inside the canyon takes a full day to complete.

Ways to explore

Exploring the Grand Canyon North Rim is all about outdoor adventure and scenery, whether you’re flying above the canyon in a sightseeing helicopter or covering rugged terrain on an ATV tour. Key viewpoints on this side of the canyon include Point Imperial, Cape Royal, and Bright Angel Point.

Popular day hiking trails include the short Bright Angel Point Trail—a paved route that takes most travelers around 30 minutes to complete and offers great views. The more challenging North Kaibab Trail is the North Rim’s only hike that leads into the canyon, and its entire route takes a full day; shorter options lead to either Coconino Overlook or the Supai Tunnel.

Accessibility

The North Rim Visitor Center is wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available for loan there. There is a wheelchair-friendly scenic route to a viewpoint that starts at the center. All Grand Canyon park shuttle buses can accommodate wheelchairs.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sunscreen, refillable water bottle, appropriate kit and supplies if hiking (depending on length of hike)

What to wear

Temperatures are cooler at the North Rim than elsewhere near the Grand Canyon, so plan to bring layered clothing, including warm and waterproof garments. If hiking, wear sturdy walking boots and weather-appropriate clothing.

Not allowed

Drones, fires, fireworks

Amenities

Restrooms, gas station, campground, general store, visitor center

Address

The Grand Canyon North Rim runs into both Arizona and Nevada and is part of Grand Canyon National Park. The North Rim is about 275 miles (442 kilometers) east of Las Vegas and about 207 miles (332 kilometers) from Flagstaff in Arizona.

Driving

From Las Vegas, take 1-15 North to highways 9, 59, 389, and 67 South. To reach the Grand Canyon North Rim from Flagstaff, drive north on I-89 to AZ-67 South. Parking is available at the Grand Canyon North Rim Visitor Center.

Public transportation

The Trans-Canyon shuttle runs between the South Rim and the North Rim when the North Rim is open between May and October. The service is paid, and reservations are required.

Best times to visit

Sunrise and sunset are spectacular times to visit the North Rim; keep in mind that pre-dawn hours can be very chilly.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are the quietest time to visit the Grand Canyon North Rim, as more day-trippers arrive on weekends.

Best months to visit

Visitor facilities at the North Rim are generally open from mid-May to mid-October. It’s possible to visit the area until the first snowfall closes the road from Jacob Lake.

Special events

The Grand Canyon Star Party draws astronomy fans to official viewing sites at both the South Rim and the North Rim, and typically takes place in June.