Beginning on Monday, October 15, visitor services on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park will be gradually dialed down. A link to a National Park Service (NPS) press release below provides the timetable. The rolling closure will culminate with the gating of Hwy 67 on December 3rd or the first major snowfall, whichever comes first.
Each year visitor services and access to the North Rim is suspended for the winter in recognition of the relatively light visitation it receives compared to the bustling South Rim. The North Rim’s historically heavier snowpack, due in part to its higher elevation, is another factor.
As a resident of the South Rim, I was delighted to make the journey to the North Rim (an eight-hour roundtrip) three times this year: for Memorial Day weekend; during the summer monsoon; and for a dazzling fall colors display. Each visit reminded me of the many charms offered on the loftier of the two rims. The dense forest, crisp temperatures, slower pace, and compelling views all conspire to make the North Rim a “must see” destination for anyone headed for canyon country.
A hat’s off to all of the many North Rim NPS, Grand Canyon Association, and Forever Resorts employees for another wonderful season.
More information: https://www.nps.gov/grca/learn/news/grand-canyon-north-rim-transitions-into-day-use-area-november-1-2018.htm
