The Grand Canyon's Secret Spot That Deserves More Attention

If you've ever been to the Grand Canyon, you can clearly understand why it's considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Stretching 217 miles long, ranging from 4 to 18 miles in width, and plunging over a mile deep, it is a testament to the Earth's geological history. The Colorado River winds through the canyon floor, carving its way through the multicolored rock layers that reveal millions of years of natural erosion. From the greens and reds of Bright Angel Point to the rich oranges of the Kaibab Formation, each stratum tells a unique story of time and transformation in this top natural wonder.

Each year, nearly five million visitors flock to Grand Canyon National Park to witness its grandeur, since many see a trip to the Grand Canyon as a trip of a lifetime. However, the vast majority of them head to the South Rim, which is more accessible and offers numerous facilities, lodges, and viewpoints. The North Rim, on the other hand, remains a hidden gem, receiving only about 10% of all visitors. For those seeking a more intimate and serene experience with nature, the North Rim is the perfect escape. With its higher elevation, forested landscapes, and dramatic viewpoints, this lesser-visited side of the canyon deserves far more attention than it receives.

The North Rim's remote location and limited accessibility contribute to its status as the "other side of the canyon." Getting to the Grand Canyon can be tricky. Unlike the South Rim, which remains open year-round, the North Rim is only accessible from mid-May to mid-October due to heavy snowfall in the winter months. The roads to the North Rim close from December to mid-May,  but experienced visitors can still reach the area by snowshoeing or hiking from the South Rim during the winter season. If you're lucky, you might catch the North Rim during snowfall, which is a truly magical experience.

For those traveling from the South Rim's Grand Canyon Village in Arizona, the drive takes about four hours. Alternatively, the North Rim is approximately three hours from the city of St. George, Utah. The closest commercial airport is Flagstaff Pulliam Airport, but many travelers opt to fly into Las Vegas McCarran International Airport for more flight options before making a scenic road trip to the Grand Canyon. Given its remoteness, planning ahead is crucial, since the nearest services, including accommodation, food, and gas stations, are located 45 miles north of the North Rim at Jacob Lake, Arizona.

The best time to visit is between late May and early October when all services are operational and the roads are open. Summer visitors will appreciate the North Rim's higher elevation, which offers a reprieve from the scorching desert heat that often hits areas of the South Rim. The cooler temperatures and the lush alpine forests create a unique contrast to the more arid landscapes found elsewhere in the park.

One highlight of the North Rim is Bright Angel Point, offering stunning panoramic views of both Bright Angel Canyon and Transept Canyon. The mile-deep canyon appears even more dramatic from this vantage point because of the North Rim's higher elevation. It should be noted that Bright Angel Point was closed for construction in June 2024 and there is currently no news of its reopening in 2025 yet.

Cape Royal Road is also a must-see. This stunning scenic route features multiple overlooks, including Point Imperial, the highest viewpoint on this side of the canyon (8,803 feet). Here, visitors can marvel at the Painted Desert, where the canyon walls transform into striking layers of red and black rock. Cape Royal offers some of the most sweeping views of the canyon and the winding Colorado River visible through Angels Window, a naturally occurring rock archway.

The North Rim also boasts incredible hiking. The North Kaibab Trail (which is frequently managed and inspected for safety) descends 6,000 feet to the Colorado River. While a full round trip is 28 miles and is only recommended for experienced hikers, shorter sections such as the Coconino Overlook (which is 1.5 miles round-trip) and Supai Tunnel (4 miles round-trip) provide stunning experiences with less effort. If you'd rather ride than walk, check out the mule rides on the canyon rim for a unique memory atop these sure-footed, gentle animals. The North Rim offers unparalleled experiences for those willing to venture off the beaten path. With fewer crowds, breathtaking viewpoints, rich geological history, and an abundance of ways to enjoy the view, this hidden gem deserves more attention.