The Rites of Spring: North Rim Opens for Visitation

The North Rim opened on May 15 for what promises to be another busy season. Due to historically heavy snowfall, the National Park Service closes the North Rim to visitation from mid-October through mid-May. Although more remote stretches of the North Rim remain open year round, the lofty plateau endures its harsh winter with little human fanfare.

The North Rim is a favorite for the savvy visitor looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the South Rim. Many canyon regulars feel the extra few hours of driving is worth the trade off in solitude and cooler temperatures. In fact, it’s often said that the North Rim is where residents of the South Rim go to vacation. As a South Rim resident chomping at the bit to visit the lush forest, and challenging trails on the far side of the abyss, I’d have to agree.