North Rim

If you’re lookin’ for a quieter, more peaceful slice of the Grand Canyon, the North Rim’s the place to hang your hat. With far fewer visitors than the bustling South Rim, this side of the canyon offers a serene, almost mystical experience.

Perched at 8,000 feet above sea level, the North Rim boasts cooler temps and lush forests of ponderosa pines. It’s a nature-lover’s dream, where every trail and viewpoint feels like a hidden treasure. And let’s not forget, those canyon vistas are just as grand—if not grander—from this side!

This is the rim for folks who savor solitude, enjoy a touch of rugged charm, and want to feel like they’ve got the whole canyon to themselves. If tranquility is what you’re after, saddle up and head north!

Gettin' There

Reaching the North Rim ain’t exactly a hop, skip, and jump, but that’s part of its charm. The closest airport with commercial service is Page, AZ, with daily flights to Phoenix. It’s a short 2-1/2 hour drive from there, makin’ it the most convenient option for flyin’ in.

Flagstaff is another choice, though it’s about a four-hour drive to the rim. Or, if you don’t mind a bit more saddle time, Las Vegas offers plenty of flight options and sits about five hours away. The bonus to flying into Sin-City? You can easily swing through Zion National Park and make it a double-feature adventure.

No matter which trail you take, the journey to the North Rim is as scenic as the destination, with plenty of open skies and rugged landscapes to marvel at along the way.

Each route has its perks, and I’ll let ya in on a secret—your choice might just change up what sights you hit first. Either way, hit the “Pick Yer Home Base” button below for more guidance on settlin' in on an itinerary. A wise cowboy knows a well-placed home base can make all the difference.

Pick a Home Base

North Rim Sleeping

Staying in the Park

The North Rim’s Grand Canyon Lodge is as iconic as it gets, with cozy cabins that let ya rest your weary head right by the canyon’s edge. And, to be honest, it's the only place to get a room inside the park. With that, reservations are highly recommended, as these spots fill up faster than a chuckwagon at suppertime.

Book Grand Canyon Lodge

Prefer to camp under the stars? The North Rim Campground offers both tent and RV sites for a true outdoor experience. To reserve a campsite check out the National Parks North Rim Camping Reservation Page here.

Just Outside the Park

If the park’s all booked up, fret not, partner! Just outside the park, you’ll find options like Jacob Lake, about 45 minutes away, famous for its lodge and bakery. Head further to Kanab, UT, for more lodgin’ choices and a charming small-town vibe. Cliff Dwellers and Marble Canyon provide unique stays along the Colorado River, and Page, AZ, has plenty of spots to rest if you don’t mind a bit of drivin’.

North Rim Lodging

Grub

Hungry travelers will find hearty fare at the Grand Canyon Lodge’s Dining Room. Reservations are a good idea, especially during peak season. From juicy steaks to vegetarian delights, the menu’s got somethin’ for everyone. For a quick bite, there are other smaller dining options at the lodge too.

Deli in the Pines, just outside the lodge, offers some grab n' go casual eatery. It ain't fancy but it'll do the trick.

If you venture out, don’t miss Jacob Lake Inn, about 45 minutes from the rim. Their cookies are the stuff of legend, partner—so good, you might just forget your name! Or, pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the rim’s scenic viewpoints.

For a deeper dive into the best dining spots along your journey, check out our itineraries. We’ve rustled up the top three spots for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at every major stop on your trip!

Shop Itineraries

Sight Seein'

The North Rim is packed with jaw-droppin’ views and adventures. Start with Bright Angel Point for a postcard-perfect panorama. Hop in your car and drive to Cape Royal, where you’ll see the Colorado River snakin’ through the canyon, or Point Imperial, the highest viewpoint on the North Rim.

Don’t miss the Grand Canyon Lodge patio—a spot as famous for its views as it is for its beverages. Sit back with a drink in hand and watch the canyon light up in hues of gold and crimson as the sun dips low.

In fact, check out my video where I share my advice on what to do at the North Rim if you've only got a half a day to spend inside the park.

Hiking

The North Rim offers a variety of trails for every type of adventurer, from casual strolls to heart-pounding treks. Whether you’re lookin’ to stay near the rim or venture deep into the canyon, there’s a trail here to suit your boots. Just remember, at 8,000 feet, the air is thinner, and the sun’s a might fiercer, so pace yourself and don’t forget to protect your skin.

Bright Angel Point

For an easy jaunt, the Bright Angel Point Trail is a paved half-mile walk with spectacular canyon views. The Transept Trail meanders 3 miles along the rim between the Grand Canyon Lodge and the North Rim Campground, while the Bridle Trail connects the lodge to the North Kaibab Trailhead, perfect for hikers with pets or bicycles.

If you’re cravin’ a deeper adventure, the North Kaibab Trail is the only maintained trail into the canyon from the North Rim. Even short hikes to Coconino Overlook or Supai Tunnel will leave you awestruck. For a more strenuous day, head to Roaring Springs, but remember, this trail ain’t for the faint of heart! Beyond Roaring Springs, only seasoned hikers should proceed.

Supai Tunnel

For scenic rim hikes, try the Cape Royal Trail or the Widforss Trail, blending forest paths with canyon vistas. Or venture to Uncle Jim Trail for a forested loop with views of the canyon’s switchbacks.

Cape Royal Overlook

Whatever trail you choose, the North Rim’s rugged beauty is bound to leave ya breathless—both literally and figuratively!

Tours

The North Rim ain’t exactly teemin’ with tour options, but you’ve still got a few choices. Companies out of Kanab offer day tours and multi-day backpacking adventures for the more intrepid traveler. All of which are listed in my North Rim Itineraries. If you’re lookin’ for somethin’ a bit easier on the legs, mule rides are a classic way to explore the rim. Again, you'll all the info on those in my itineraries

Shop Itineraries

For the high-flyin’ folks, there’s a tour that’ll whisk ya outta Las Vegas and back in a single day, takin’ you to a super remote slice of the North Rim far from the Lodge. Fancy a little extra thrill? They’ve got upgrades that’ll put you in the saddle of an ATV to explore the wilds up close.

North Rim Helicopter & ATV Tour from Las Vegas

And for the hearty adventurers with a taste for the epic, there’s a guided Rim-to-Rim hike startin’ and endin’ in Phoenix. Clockin’ in at four days, it’s a journey that’ll test your mettle and leave you with tales bigger than the canyon itself. Whatever your style, these tours promise an experience as grand as the rim you’re explorin’!

North Rim Tours

Final Thoughts

The North Rim may take a bit more effort to reach, but for those who value solitude, stunning vistas, and a touch of adventure, it’s well worth the journey. Whether you’re gazin’ out from the lodge patio, hittin’ the trails, or enjoyin’ a hearty meal, the North Rim offers an unforgettable Grand Canyon experience. Saddle up and see for yourself, partner—you won’t regret it!