North Rim in Grand Canyon National Park

North Rim

A 4-1/2 hour drive from the popular South Rim.

Plan Around North Rim

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North Rim Details

The North Rim is just 10 miles from the South Rim as the crow flies, but it's a 4-1/2 hour drive -- and in many respects a world away -- from its better-known counterpart in Grand Canyon National Park. The high-desert environment on the Kaibab Plateau is cooler thanks to its greater elevation, but mostly what you'll notice is the lack of crowds and a generally more peaceful, laid-back atmosphere. The fundamental geography of the developed portion of the park is different, as well: Where the attractions of the South Rim are spread out along the edge of the abyss, the North Rim facilities are largely confined to a narrow peninsula between two canyons, ending at Bright Angel Point. Everything here is on a smaller scale -- well, except for the Grand Canyon itself -- but you'll still find plenty to do, including Ranger-led talks and plenty of hiking on the rim and into the canyon itself.

Difficulty

Low

Distance

N/A

Estimated time

Region

North Rim

Nearby Parks Around North Rim

Compare nearby parks around North Rim when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.

10.7 mi away

Grand Canyon

National Park · AZ

85.5 mi away

Zion

National Park · UT

99.1 mi away

Bryce Canyon

National Park · UT

150.4 mi away

Capitol Reef

National Park · UT

150.4 mi away

Petrified Forest

National Park · AZ

198.3 mi away

Canyonlands

National Park · UT

Nearby Points of Interest Around North Rim

Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond North Rim while the map context is still fresh.

0.1 mi away

North Rim Campground

Open May to October and a tent-only campground.

0.3 mi away

North Rim Backcountry Office.

The water filling station is located at the office.

0.6 mi away

Ken Patrick Trail

Trail offering views of Nankoweap Creek Canyon.

0.6 mi away

Uncle Jim Trail

An easy trail following the North Rim.

0.6 mi away

Supai Tunnel

A popular day hike relatively close to the rim.