Explore The Cooler And Less-Crowded Side Of Arizona's Grand Canyon This Summer
By Melissa Mahoney|Published July 10, 2024
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Melissa Mahoney
Author
I'm an east coast girl living in a west coast world. I grew up in New England before moving to SoCal for several years. I then lived in NYC or a year before moving to AZ in 2009. I worked in the entertainment industry for many years of my adult life and have a deep love for photography, writing, and traveling around the U.S. as well as to far-flung locations around the world. Travel is my life and writing about it is a dream!
While the South Rim of the Grand Canyon in Arizona sees nearly 5 million visitors each year, its North Rim doesn’t see nearly as many. At approximately 400,000 visitors, you won’t find the crowds at the North Rim as you would in the South. There’s no denying, however, that the North Rim is more remote and, therefore, takes longer to get to than the South Rim. Open year-round, it’s no wonder why the South Rim sees so many visitors annually. At an elevation of 8,000 feet, the North Rim’s season is from May 15 through Oct. 15, but despite the shorter window, it’s still an incredible way to experience the Grand Canyon. During the summer months, the South Rim’s average temperatures reach the mid-80s while the temperatures at the North Rim are in the 70s, so there’s quite a difference there as well.
If your summer plans include a trip to the natural wonder that is the Grand Canyon, consider the North Rim over the South Rim. Not only will you experience fewer crowds but the weather is cooler on this side as well!
Upon arrival at the Grand Canyon's North Rim, you'll most likely stop at the North Rim Visitor Center first. It's always a great idea to check in with the park rangers and ask any questions you may have before exploring the park.
North Rim Visitor Center, AZ-67, North Rim, AZ 86023, USA
Behind the Visitor Center is the Grand Canyon Conservancy's store where you can purchase maps, books, water bottles, and more.
When you explore the North Rim, one point of interest that is a must is Point Imperial. At 8,803 feet in elevation, Point Imperial gives sweeping views of the Painted Desert and Marble Canyon below.
At the scenic overlook here, there are interpretive signs, a restroom, a picnic table, and a trailhead.
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The Cape Royal Trail along the North Rim is an easy 1-mile trek that's mostly paved. From this trail, you will have views of the Colorado River as well as a natural arch known as Angel's Window.
Rated as hard on Alltrails, this 3.4-mile trek will take you into the Grand Canyon to the Coconino Overlook 1.5 miles into the hike and the Supai Tunnel is a bit further. Of course, if you're intent on heading to the overlook and turning around to go back, we don't blame you! You'll still have an incredible hike along this trail.
Another scenic point of interest on the North Rim, the Walhalla Overlook is a historic spot with views aplenty. You'll see portions of the Painted Desert along with Echo Cliffs and the Little Colorado River Gorge from here. Additionally, there is an archaeological site you can walk to.
The Walhalla Glades Pueblo located by the Walhalla Overlook via a short walk is a 1,000-year-old ancestral pueblo that's key to understanding the history of the area.
This small pueblo was home to roughly 20 people who would winter on the canyon's floor and climb to a higher altitude during the summer months. The pueblo is a fascinating look into how native people lived over a millennia ago.
If you plan on spending the night at the North Rim, the only lodging available is at the Grand Canyon North Rim Lodge. Based on availability, you'll have a choice of a cabin or a motel room.
Grand Canyon Lodge - North Rim, AZ-67, North Rim, AZ 86052, USA
The cabins are located under a canopy of pine trees and many of them have views of the canyon. Dining is available at the Lodge as well. It's certainly worth spending the night if you can. Just make sure you book your reservations in advance.
Are you ready to explore the cooler and less crowded side of the Grand Canyon in Arizona this summer? It’s my favorite part of the Grand Canyon! For visiting and lodging information, visit the Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim website.
