North Rim
General information about the National Park
Grand Canyon NP protects the area around the 280mi long canyon that the Colorado River has carved into the Colorado Plateau over time. In 1919, the Grand Canyon became a national park. It has also been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. With over 5 million visitors per year, the park is one of the most visited parks in the USA.
Number of visitors
In 2020, Grand Canyon NP ranked 6th in the most visited national parks visitor statistics and 2nd in 2023.
Best time to visit: Basically, it is beautiful all year round. Winter is the least busy, but some trails are difficult or impossible to hike.
Our visits:
So far 2 visits: November 2009, October 2012
Entrance fees and opening hours
- 35$/car and all passengers valid for 7 days
- Covered by the Anual Pass*
- Depending on the snow conditions, the access road is closed in winter.
*The Anual Pass is so to speak the "flat rate" for all Parks managed by the National Park Service. The pass costs a one-time fee of $80 and can be purchased at the entrance to each National Park, National Monument, etc. The pass is valid for 13 months.
Grand Canyon North Rim
Description of how to get there: The access is via Highway 89A. Here you drive to the small town of Jacob Lake and then turn onto Highway 67 towards the Grand Canyon North Rim. The drive is quite monotonous, it leads over a plateau, sometimes over meadows, but mostly through the forest. The drive from Jacob Lake is 46.6mi long.
Description: In contrast to the South Rim, it is quiet and secluded here. The landscape is rougher and more pristine - but no less interesting than on the south side of the canyon. So if you want to enjoy the Grand Canyon a little more, you should come here.
Our rating: We like the North Rim of the Grand Canyon very much, especially because you still have a lot of peace and quiet to enjoy the nature around you. There is one small restriction, the North Rim is usually only open from mid-May to mid-October. If the snow and weather conditions allow it, these times are sometimes extended. So in 2009 we were able to visit the North Rim even in mid-November.
Point Imperial und Cape Royal
Description of how to get there: Besides the road to the Visitor Center and the Grand Canyon Lodge, there are two Scenic Roads to Point Imperial and Cape Royal. These turn off Highway 67 before you reach the Visitor Center.
Description: Both roads are paved and there are some more viewpoints along the way. Everywhere you have great views into the canyon and therefore you can risk a short or longer look at any viewpoint.
Our rating: If you've made the long drive to the North Rim, it would be a shame to skip these two roads. It is worth investing time here.
...and with a little luck, you can also see the national park's own bison herd...
