Grand Canyon National Park, AZ – The north side of the majestic Grand Canyon, the North Rim, is gearing up to open its gates to visitors for the 2025 season on Thursday, May 15th. After its annual winter closure, the North Rim will once again offer its unique perspectives and tranquil atmosphere to parkgoers.
Unlike the more heavily visited South Rim, the North Rim sees only about 10% of the Grand Canyon’s total visitors, offering a more secluded and less crowded experience for those willing to take the road less traveled. However, access is seasonal due to heavy snowfall at its higher elevation of over 8,000 feet (2,438 meters).
Starting May 15th, the Grand Canyon Lodge and the North Rim Campground will both open their doors, remaining operational until October 15th, 2025. Reservations for lodging at the iconic Grand Canyon Lodge are highly recommended, while reservations for the North Rim Campground, operated by the National Park Service (NPS), are required and can be made up to six months in advance. Food and beverage services are also available at the lodge.
The Grand Canyon North Rim is also a manageable day trip from Colorado City AZ, located approximately 94 miles away. As the North Rim prepares to welcome visitors once again, the accessibility from areas like Colorado City may contribute to a gradual increase in tourism for these nearby communities.
For those planning a visit during the open season, the North Rim Visitor Center, located adjacent to the Grand Canyon Lodge and Bright Angel Point, will also open on May 15th, operating daily from 9 am to 6 pm. Inside, visitors will find a Grand Canyon Conservancy Park Store offering books and souvenirs. Public restrooms and outdoor exhibits are located behind the visitor center. Additionally, Park Rangers will be available at an outdoor information desk at the Roaring Springs Overlook Kiosk daily from 10 am to 4 pm.
Hikers should be aware that while the scenic roads on the North Rim and the Transept Trail will be open, the popular Bright Angel Point Trail, leading from the Grand Canyon Lodge, will remain CLOSED for extensive repairs throughout the 2025 season. This closure is necessary for the safety of both staff and visitors during the significant construction effort.
Getting to the North Rim from the South Rim requires a significant detour, a 4.5-hour drive covering approximately 220 miles (354 km), despite the direct hiking distance across the canyon being only 21 miles (34 km) with substantial elevation changes.
Visitors planning a trip to the North Rim are encouraged to consult the North Rim Pocket Map and Services Guide, available at entrance stations, visitor centers, lodges, campgrounds, and out-of-park locations, for detailed information.
The North Rim Backcountry Information Center, located in the NPS administration building, will also open on May 15th, operating daily from 8 am to noon and 1 pm to 5 pm. Rangers at the center can provide maps, trail information, backcountry permits, and assistance with trip planning.
With its stunning vistas and more tranquil atmosphere, the reopening of the North Rim offers another exceptional way to experience the grandeur of the Grand Canyon. Visitors planning to explore this unique side of the natural wonder should make necessary reservations and be aware of the trail closures in place for the 2025 season.
