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The most isolated region of the Grand Canyon is the northern boundary which has abundant wildlife and awe-inspiring natural scenery surrounded by ponderosa pines. Although it may be somewhat distant to reach, if exploring the less busy parts of the area is a priority, the main attractions on the Grand Canyon North Rim cannot be missed!
Be aware that the North Rim option is not feasible if planning to visit the Grand Canyon in winter, as it remains closed during the coldest months when covered by snowfall. However, you will have the ability to evade large crowds even if going during the spring or fall, the best time to explore the Grand Canyon. That is one of the primary variances involving the North Rim vs. the South Rim. Both are magnificent, but if you ultimately end up visiting the North Rim, you will appreciate the solitude that cannot be found at the Southern Edge.
If you want to explore the wildest side of the canyon, in this guide I’ll share all the best things to do at the Grand Canyon North Rim so you can have a journey filled with awe and wonder. Whether you’re an avid adventurer or simply seeking a quiet place to share lovely moments with your family and loved ones, this guide will lead you to the right destination. So, let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
1. Take the Grand Canyon North Rim Scenic Drive to Point Imperial and Cape Royal
One of the main attractions of the Grand Canyon North Rim is the Scenic Drive to Point Imperial and Cape Royal. As you traverse these picturesque routes, you’ll encounter some of the most iconic viewpoints in the region.
Firstly, take a detour from Cape Royal road to visit Point Imperial. This vista point occupies the North Rim`s highest elevation, thus offering panoramic perspectives that extend as far as the eye can see. Trust me, the views from this vantage are completely breathtaking.
Continue traveling along the Cape Royal road until the end, where you will find the Cape Royal scenic overlook, which serves as a front-row viewpoint to see the Colorado River winding throughout the depths of the canyon. To reach the actual scenic area takes approximately 20 minutes walking from the parking area, but it is completely worthwhile. You can also visit the Angel`s Window scenic overlook along the way.
As is observable, there are plenty of activities along the Cape Royal Scenic Drive. Other breathtaking perspectives along this road include Vista Encantada,Roosevelt Point, and Walhalla Overlook, each one furnishing its own unique view of the Grand Canyon North Rim.
2. Hike to Cape Final, one of the best things to do in Grand Canyon North Rim
When looking for the best things to do at the Grand Canyon North Rim, a hike to Cape Final should be right at the top of your list. This 4-mile trail is a less crowded destination, but it includes one of the best views of the Grand Canyon you’ll ever witness.
The Cape Final Trail is renowned for its moderate challenge level, implying that hikers with varying degrees of experience can enjoy it. As you make your way through the scenic conifer forest, keep your camera ready, as you’ll catch glimpses of the canyon through the towering trees.
This trail is one of the best Grand Canyon North Rim hikes and something you can do while you travel along the scenic Cape Royal Drive, since the trailhead is right there. The hike takes around 2 to 3 hours round-trip, and what makes it so unique are the stunning views of the North Rim and the Painted Desert. It’s like having your own private lookout point, away from the tourist crowds.
3. North Rim Visitor Center, a popular place to visit at the Grand Canyon North Rim
When exploring the best places to visit at the Grand Canyon North Rim, the North Rim Visitor Center is an attraction you won’t want to miss.
Remember that the visitor center offers more than just information; it’s a gateway to exploring the Grand Canyon, where you’ll learn much about the canyon’s geology, history, and wildlife. In addition, inside the visitor center are park rangers who can respond to questions and provide guidance on the best activities at the Grand Canyon North Rim.
More importantly, don’t forget to stop by the Grand Canyon North Rim gift shop for souvenirs that will remind you of this incredible experience.
As you step outside the visitor center, make sure to appreciate the stunning scenery. The surrounding areas provide a different perspective of the canyon, with lush ponderosa forests and many trails to explore, like the Bright Angel Trail, which I’ll discuss next.
4. See the sunset from Bright Angel Point, the best attraction in Grand Canyon North Rim
One of the hiking trails departing from the visitor center will take you to Bright Angel Point. If you`re searching for an thrilling activity to do in the Grand Canyon North Rim, watching the sunset from this scenic overlook is absolutely essential. This renowned location is one of my preferred places in the North Rim. As the sun starts its descent, the canyon is transformed into a breathtaking canvas of hues and shadows.
The Bright Angel Point Trail is easily accessible to all hikers and offers a brief stroll with impressive rewards. The 1-mile pathway travels through a woodland of fir and spruce trees, and when you reach the lookout point, you’ll be confronted with a spectacular perspective.
The trail is well-kept and offers a relatively effortless hike involving only a slight elevation increase. Typically it takes around 30 minutes to complete, affording a perfect place to appreciate the spectacular views of the Grand Canyon. Overall Bright Angel Point is the ideal destination especially for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
5. Hike the North Kaibab Trail and see the Colorado River from the North Rim
Should you choose to tackle the demanding yet rewarding experience of traversing the Grand Canyon from rim to rim, the North Kaibab Trail makes for an excellent starting point. This path is acclaimed as one of the premier hikes in the Grand Canyon, allowing breathtaking perspectives of the Colorado River below, yet it also presents one of the most strenuous routes.
Simply arriving at the Colorado River will take around 6 hours, since this is a 16-mile hike with an elevation change of approximately 6,600 ft. After camping at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, you can continue the ascent to the South Rim, either through the South Kaibab Trail or the Bright Angel Trail.
As I stated, this is only for experienced hikers in excellent physical condition! So, if you’re seeking a shorter hike with equally breathtaking views, think of hiking only a portion of the North Kaibab Trail. For instance, you can go down to Roaring Springs, which is a great way to enjoy the beauty of the Grand Canyon without committing to the full rim-to-rim journey. And don’t forget to make a stop at the Coconino Overlook. It’s absolutely stunning!
6. Hike the Transept Trail, one of the easier things to do at Grand Canyon North Rim
If you’re looking for a fairly easy adventure at the Grand Canyon North Rim, I recommend the Transept Trail. This out-and-back 4-mile path offers a more relaxed experience and it’s certainly among the best things to do at the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park.
The Transept Trail is ideal for those seeking a relaxed hiking experience while still immersing themselves in the magnificence of the canyon. This picturesque route continues along the rim, offering you with captivating views of the canyon and the stunning Transept Canyon.
As you hike, you’ll find many chances to appreciate the serenity of the north side of the Grand Canyon. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just searching for a lovely outdoor experience with your family and friends, the Transept Trail is a delightful addition to your list of things to do at the Grand Canyon North Rim. It won’t take over 2 hours!
7. Uncle Jim Trail Overlook, one of the best views from the Grand Canyon North Rim
There are many exciting activities available at the Grand Canyon North Rim, but the Uncle Jim Trail Overlook is one item that undoubtedly should be included on your agenda. When we explored this location, we were truly astonished by the experience and considered it to offer one of the finest views from the Grand Canyon North Rim.
The trail to the Uncle Jim Trail Overlook is a relatively brief hike (a little under 5 miles), but it has plenty to offer in terms of scenery. It can take around 1.5 hours to reach the overlook, but once there, you’ll be rewarded with an unblocked vista showcasing the Grand Canyon in all its magnificence. It’s one of those moments you will remember for the rest of your life.
Experiencing the scenic overlook available from the Uncle Jim Trail is a delightful way to be reminded of the magnificent natural wonders within the Grand Canyon`s North Rim region. This adventure also offers an opportunity for one to reconnect with the inherent beauty found in nature, so I strongly recommend adding it to your itinerary.
8. Bike the Bridle Trail, the only multi-use trail in the Grand Canyon North Rim
When exploring things to do at the Grand Canyon North Rim, you should definitely consider taking an exciting bicycle ride on the Bridle Trail, the only multi-use path in this part of the park. This trail not only provides a different perspective of the Grand Canyon, but also adds a lot of fun to your visit..
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What makes the Bridle Trail unique is that it’s the only trail where bicycles and leashed pets are permitted. This gives you a chance to explore the area using two wheels and enjoy more remote sections of the park. The Bridle Trail is roughly 2 miles long, so it may require about 1 to 1.5 hours round-trip, including some stops for taking in the surroundings.
The trail’s generally level terrain makes it suitable for riders with varying skill levels. So, if you’re traveling with children, this can be one of the best options to explore near the Grand Canyon’s northern entrance. While cycling the Bridle Trail, be prepared for exciting wildlife encounters along the way. I assure you it will be an active and enjoyable addition to your North Rim experience.
9. Visit the North Rim Lookout Tower, a curious place to visit in the Grand Canyon North Rim
This Lower Manhattan neighborhood is known for cobblestone streets, impressive architecture, and Tribeca Film Festival occurring each spring. You can easily spend hours walking streets and visiting cute shops and sidewalk cafes.
As you ascend the tower’s narrow staircase, you’re not just heading for an elevated vantage point but also stepping back in time. The tower’s architecture also exhibits a rustic charm which is truly fascinating.
To arrive at this location, you have the option to hike along the North Rim Fire Watchtower Trail. This moderately short out-and-back trail that spans 2.8 miles is fairly easygoing and takes approximately one hour to complete. It provides a peaceful and solitary hiking experience, making it an optimal choice for those seeking a calm environment. However, keep in mind that canine companions are not permitted on this trail.
And remember that the Watchtower isn’t distant from the Kaibab Plateau, where you can come across the most breathtaking wildlife in the Grand Canyon, like a sizeable bison herd.
10. Toroweap Overlook, a popular place to visit near Grand Canyon North Rim
Toroweap Overlook is one among the finest spots to tour at the Grand Canyon North Rim rendering an unblocked perspective of the Colorado River at 3,000 feet upwards. Toroweap is located in a far away as well as rough section of the Grand Canyon, hence it’s not as usually seen as additional viewpoints, which earns it best for folks who are looking forward to solitariness as well as a genuinely immersive all-natural experience.
Reaching Toroweap necessitates navigating a difficult and unpaved road, intended solely for vehicles with high ground clearance and four-wheel drive capability. However, I can assure you that you`ll be rewarded with a heavenly vista at the conclusion. If feasible, schedule your visit to coincide with sunrise or sunset in order to fully appreciate the natural splendor and untamed wildness of the Grand Canyon.
Toroweap Overlook is the North Rim’s most distant viewpoint, so it can take around 3-4 hours to arrive here. However, the good news is that you can spend the night at Tuweep Campground, located just 1.5 miles from the overlook. The campground lacks modern comforts, so be sure to bring food and water. And remember that you need a permit for both daytime and overnight use.
Where to stay at Grand Canyon North Rim
Deciding where to reside in the Grand Canyon can be rather tricky because there are many good options to consider. But if you’re planning to visit the North Rim, allow me to offer a couple appealing choices.
If seeking utmost accommodation surrounded by the natural setting, then you should consider Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim. It`s not just one of the most illustrious lodging selections but also viewed as one of the finest luxury hotels in the Grand Canyon.
The Grand Canyon Lodge offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from cabins to motel rooms, ensuring a comfortable stay with warm hospitality and delicious homemade food.
For those seeking a more exciting experience or wanting to visit the Grand Canyon by RV, the North Rim Campground is an excellent choice. This campground provides a chance to fully immerse oneself in the wilderness and enjoy the magnificence of camping at the Grand Canyon North Rim.
The North Rim Campground offers great services, including a dump station, a convenience store, trash/recycling collection, and even an amphitheater. Additionally, the campground is near some of the top things to do at the Grand Canyon’s North Rim, so you’re never far from experience.
Map of things to do at Grand Canyon North Rim
To assist you in planning your , here’s a map highlighting all the places mentioned in this guide. You can also check out our Grand Canyon North Rim map for more details.
I hope this guide assists in planning your excursion to this lovely region. If you have any questions or want to share your preferred activity on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, feel free to leave a comment below. I`d be pleased to hear from you!
Enjoy exploring the Grand Canyon North Rim!
