Grand Canyon Nat'l Park
North Rim
The North Rim of the Grand Canyon has equally spectacular views and scenery, but the road into the park is only open from mid May until the first snow, around mid-October. At over 8,000 ft, it's a more than 1000 ft higher than the South Rim, is much cooler in summer, and gets more than 100 inches of snow in the winter
North Rim Visitor Center - Stop into the North Rim Visitor Center to get trail maps and information about ranger programs and activities for kids - nature walks, campfire talks and "Discovery Packs."s
Bright Angel Point Trail - It's worth a trip to the North Rim just to walk out onto Bright Angel Point. It's a flat, paved half mile trail that ends in the most incredible overlook, looking down into Bright Angel Canyon, rust red and gray striped formations, and the "temples" with pointy tops marching off in the distance.
Uncle Jim Trail and North Kaibab Trail - If you have teens and older kids, these two trails are fun. The Uncle Jim Trail is a pretty level trail that goes along the rim in the trees, with stellar views from Uncle Jim Point. For a "biggie" trail, hike down the North Kaibab Trail, as far as the kids want (or push on to Roaring Springs, 9.5 miles roundtrip). The North Kaibab Trail a steep trail, but teens can leave mom and dad in the dust, puffing up the switchbacks.
Mule Rides - One hour rides along the rim or half day trips are fun for everyone in the family.
Tip: It's 42 miles from Highway 89 (Jacob Lake) down a two lane road to the North Rim, so if you plan to explore this area for a couple of days, have a reservation for the North Rim campground or hotel reservation at the Grand Canyon Lodge - North Rim.
