As one of the nation's most visited national parks, Grand Canyon North Rim gives visitors an atmosphere of relaxation and comfort.
In some ways, a visit to the Grand Canyon North Rim is like stepping into the past. Even today, the North rim is reminiscent of the old days when visitors came by stagecoach to view a sight so amazing and so panoramic that it became worth the investment in time and energy to get there.
LOCATION - Of course, nowadays you don't have to take a stagecoach to the North Rim. Getting there is an easy drive south on Scenic Byway US 89 and 67 by way of Kanab through the Kaibab Forest on superbly maintained highways. Grand Canyon--North Rim is located in northern Arizona, 214 miles by road from the South Rim.
LODGING - Grand Canyon Lodge was designed in the 1920s by architect Gilbert Stanley Underwood, who also designed The Ahwahnee hotel in Yosemite and the lodges at Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks. A National Historic Landmark, Grand Canyon Lodge is an informal and spacious hotel. Constructed of massive limestone walls and timbered ceilings, it features dramatic vistas of the canyon and the surrounding area. Its rustic style complements the canyon rim environment. Call TW Recreational Services at (801)586-7686 for reservations.
GUIDED AND SELF-GUIDED TOURS - Both bus tours and horse or mule trail rides are available. Schedules for each are posted in the lobby of Grand Canyon Lodge, where tickets may also be purchased. For advance trail ride reservations, contact Bryce-Zion-Grand Trail Rides, Box 58, Tropic, UT 84776; (602) 638-2292 during summer or (801) 679-8665 off-season. If you prefer to drive, several points of interest are readily accessible by car. Point Imperial (11 miles from Grand Canyon Lodge) is the highest point on either rim and offers spectacular views of Mount Hayden, the Painted Desert, Saddle Mountain, and eastern Grand Canyon National park. Cape Royal (23 miles from the lodge) is the departure point for a self-guided nature trail that winds its way to Angels Window Overlook and a view of the Colorado River.
VISITOR CENTER - The NPS North Rim information desk is located in the lobby of the historic Grand Canyon Lodge. Staff members are available to answer your questions regarding the Grand Canyon and surrounding areas. The park rangers at the North Rim offer numerous free activities for your enjoyment and education, including nature walks, geology talks, and evening programs. For general park information, call (602) 638-7888.
In many ways it is difficult to comprehend the entire canyon from one spot. It simply extends from horizon to horizon. But the canyon's sheer size and beauty is more than justification for its being one of the wonders of the world.
