"The Grand Canyon - Do nothing to mar its grandeur - Keep it for your children, and all who come after you, as the one great sight which every American should see"
- Theodore Roosevelt
Located entirely in northern Arizona, the park encompasses 277 miles of the Colorado River and adjacent uplands. One of the most spectacular examples of erosion anywhere in the world, Grand Canyon is unmatched in the incomparable vistas it offers to visitors on the rim. Grand Canyon National Park is a World Heritage Site.
Less than 130 years ago, the area known as the Grand Canyon was the largest uncharted portion of the country. In 1869, Major John Wesley Powell's first geological expedition down the Colorado River revealed this natural wonder to the world. Today the Grand Canyon is one of the top vacation destinations in the nation.
Expect crowds during the spring, summer, and fall months. During these months reservations for camping and lodging are essential. The least crowded time is November through February. However, winter weather is a major consideration when planning a trip during these months.
Most visitors come to the South Rim (facilities open all year). The North Rim (services and overnight facilities open mid-May through mid-October) has fewer facilities and is more remote. It is over 200 miles/322 km one way by automobile from the South Rim to the North Rim, a 5 hour drive for most. When making reservations for lodging and camping, remember to identify the rim you plan on visiting.
The South Rim of Grand Canyon averages 7000 feet/2134 m above sea level. The North Rim is over 8000 feet/2438 m above sea level.
The North Rim
The beautiful drive along US 89 and 67 to the Grand Canyon North Rim climbs through the vast and dense Kaibab National Forest. Mule deer graze the meadows and the rare white-tailed Kaibab squirrel is found exclusively in the area. Gradually you ascend the Kaibab Plateau and find yourself at 9000 feet when suddenly the plateau opens to a chasm one mild deep, 18 miles wide and 277 miles long- the Grand Canyon. You'll be awe-struck as you gaze upon the various shades of blues and purples as they extend from horizon to horizon. The canyon's size is so enormous you may find it difficult to believe that the Colorado River was responsible for its erosion, which in turn, reveals 2,000 million years of geology.
A rustic lodge is located at Bright Angel Point, the main overlook. Visitor information can be found at the lodge, at the entrance station, and at Jacob Lake. If you plan to stay in the park, reservations must be made well in advance. Excellent accommodations are available throughout Southern Utah.
If you're the adventurous type, take a mule ride into the canyon or hike along the well-marked trails. There are short or long hikes along the rim and self-guided nature trails. It's a good idea to check with the visitor center or ranger before undertaking a hike into the canyon. In the evening, the park has entertainment and interpretive talks.
The North Rim is closed to vehicles from late October to mid-May. The high altitude brings deep snow in the winter months and keeps the temperatures crisp even in the summer.
Visitor Center
The South Rim is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Services are available and facilities are open year round.
Visitor services and facilities on the North Rim are only open from mid-May through mid-October.
Weather permitting, the North Rim is open for day use only in the fall following the close of facilities in mid-October. During this time there are no services or overnight facilities available inside park boundaries. Highway 67 from Jacob Lake is subject to closure with little or no notice during this interval and then remains closed until mid-May.
Services are limited on the North Rim. The National Park Service maintains a visitor center, and interpretive programs are offered seasonally.
Getting There
Grand Canyon Village (SOUTH RIM) is located 60 miles north of Interstate 40 at Williams via highway 64, and 80 miles northwest of Flagstaff via highway 180.
Although it is only 10 air miles/16 km across the canyon, the North Rim is over 200 miles/322 km away from the South Rim by car or a 21 mile/34 km strenuous two to three day cross-canyon hike. It is possible to fly into Las Vegas and drive from there (263 miles/423 km, one way) to the North Rim. The park boundary is 30 miles/48 km south of Jacob Lake on Highway 67. The canyon rim is an additional 14 miles/23 km south. Jacob Lake, which consists of a lodge and gas station, is located in northern Arizona on Highway 89A, not far from the Utah border. There is no public transportation to the North Rim other than the Trans Canyon Shuttle, (928) 638-2820, from the South Rim.
Accessibility
Facilities vary a great deal. The National Park Service provides wheelchairs for temporary day use by park visitors. No rental fee is charged. A wheelchair is usually available at Canyon View Center. To obtain a temporary parking permit for designated parking, inquire at the Entrance Gate, Canyon View Center, or Yavapai Observation Station.
Several of the daily interpretive Ranger Programs are wheelchair accessible. Inquire at the Canyon View Center or look in the "Guide" for specifics.
A copy of the Grand Canyon National Park Accessibility Guide is available upon request at Canyon View Center, Yavapai Observation Station, Kolb Studio, Tusyan Museum, and Desert View Information Center. Or write for a copy.
South Rim:
Most shuttles are inaccessible to wheelchairs. Accessible shuttle buses are available with a 48-hour advance reservation. Call 928-638-0591.
For more information on The Grand Canyon, visit their website at http://www.nps.gov/grca.
Grand Canyon North Rim
P.O. Box 129
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023
520-638-7888