Grand Canyon National Park is known for many things: geology; whitewater rafting; wildlife; botanical wonders; archaeology. However, it would be a stretch to add fall colors to this list, unless you’re lucky enough to be on the North Rim in late September/early October. That’s the window of time when the aspen leaves traditionally turn from vibrant green to golden yellow and muted red before falling to the ground.
High altitude trees, such as Aspen, prefer the North Rim with its average elevation exceeding the South Rim by nearly 1,000 vertical feet. While there are just a few predictable groves, it’s not always easy to know where to find the best displays.
My favorite strategy is to drive to Cape Royal, stopping at Point Imperial along the way, to determine the best viewing. If you’re pressed for time you may ask the NPS rangers at the Visitor Center if they’ve had any reports from other leaf enthusiasts. The photograph shown here was taken last October near the North Rim Campground.
Follow this link for more information on fall colors nationwide. The article some fun facts on the science behind changing leaves as well: The 2017 Fall Foliage Prediction Map
Note: North Rim visitor services (hotels, food service, ranger programs, etc) conclude on October 15. One can still visit through November, or until the roads receive an impassable snowfall.
