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The Ultimate Guide to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon


One of the best things about staying in Kanab hotels is having some of Southern Utah’s most popular outdoor attractions just a short drive away. But while Zion or Bryce Canyon might be popular day trips, there’s another national park that’s sometimes overlooked, especially by first-time visitors; the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.

When most people think about visiting the Grand Canyon, they think of the South Rim. Located less than five hours from Las Vegas, Nevada, and around four hours from Phoenix, Arizona, this section of the park draws more than 4 million annual visitors. If you want to visit this popular destination, you’ll only need to drive around three and a half hours from Canyons Boutique Hotel. But there’s actually a better way to experience the grandeur of the Grand Canyon; the North Rim.

If you’re thinking about enjoying a day trip to the North Rim during your stay at Grand Canyon lodges in Kanab, keep reading to learn what you need to know.

The North Rim of the Grand Canyon

As the name suggests, the North Rim of the Grand Canyon is located on a northern curve of the canyon, within the boundaries of Grand Canyon National Park. This section of the national park actually isn’t much further from Phoenix or Las Vegas than the South Rim. Despite this, it draws just 10 percent of the national park’s annual visitors.

This often-overlooked section of the national park is less than two hours from Kanab, making it the perfect destination for a day trip. 

Fewer Crowds and Stunning Views

The North Rim is a great spot to enjoy the Grand Canyon without the crowds. But just because it sees fewer crowds doesn’t mean that it doesn’t have incredible views.

The North Rim offers views that rival those you’ll find at the South Rim. The South Rim is a great spot to experience the depth of the Grand Canyon. Depending on where you’re looking from, you may be able to see all the way to the Colorado River at the base of the canyon.

In contrast, the North Rim is known for its panoramic views. From Bright Angel Point, it almost looks as though the Grand Canyon is completely surrounding you. 

Facilities at the North Rim

At the North Rim, there’s one lodging option, the Grand Canyon Lodge, as well as a visitor center. Inside the visitor center is a bookshop where you’ll find guidebooks, novels, and other materials perfect for learning more about the history and geology of the park. This is a great spot to talk to a park ranger about trail conditions or to ask any questions you have about the national park.

At the North Rim, you’ll also find a variety of trailheads, including some that will take you into the canyon. The most popular overlook at the North Rim is called Bright Angel Point. This overlook is located on a short, 0.5 mil round-trip, paved trail. 

South Rim Vs North Rim: Which Should You Visit?

When you are planning to visit the best Grand Canyon lodges will have an impact on which rim you choose to visit. The North Rim of the Grand Canyon closes for the winter season when snow and ice make the roads into this portion of the park impassable. 

Most years, the North Rim closes to visitors at the start of December and reopens in mid-March. Parts of this section of the park remain open for individuals hiking from the South Rim to the North Rim as well as for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking. However, you can’t drive into this section of the park, and facilities like the visitor center and lodge are closed for the season. If you’re hoping to visit the North Rim during your stay, you’ll want to visit from late March to late November.

Choosing the Best Grand Canyon Lodges

A day trip to the North Rim is a great addition to your next stay at one of the best Grand Canyon lodges, Canyons Boutique Hotel. You’re close enough to spend an entire day enjoying the park and its views. But at the end of the day, you can return to Kanab, so that you’re close to Zion, Bryce Canyon, Little Hollywood, and a variety of other popular Southern Utah attractions.

Kanab’s Canyons Boutique Hotel is the perfect base camp for your Grand Canyon adventure. Besides being centrally located to many popular attractions and parks, our boutique-style hotel offers unique, comfortable rooms with all of the amenities you’d expect from a large chain hotel. Book your room today to start planning a trip to experience some of Utah’s greatest gems!

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