North Rim – Grand Canyon Day Use

The North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park transitions to day-use operations beginning Oct. 16. This change occurs yearly as the North Rim prepares for its seasonal closure that lasts from Oct. 15 to May 15. Visitors should be aware that day-use operations means there will be no overnight lodging and limited services.

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is open all year while the North Rim is open mid-May through mid-October due to harsh winter weather conditions. Access to the South Rim is from Arizona Highway 64 while access to the North Rim is from Arizona Highway 67, this is on the ‘Utah’ side of the park. Entrance to the park is $30 per private vehicle and $12 for individuals entering by foot, motorcycle, or bicycle. The permit is good for 7 days and is valid at both the North and South Rims. For $50 you can purchase a Grand Canyon National Park Annual Pass. Or for $80 you can purchase a National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass that is good for national parks across the United States.

North Rim roads are closed to all vehicles between December 1st and May 15th, and no visitor services are available. During these winter months backpackers, snowshoers, and cross-country skiers are permitted to use the North Rim Campground, provided a backcountry use permit has been obtained in advance. – These permits are available through the South Rim Backcountry Information Center. (e-mail us or call 928-638-7875). The weather at the park can be extreme during the winter and summer months. During the winter, snow is common in the higher elevations, especially the North Rim. Temperatures drop well below freezing at times. The Inner Gorge of the Grand Canyon rarely sees snow and has milder temperatures during the winter. The summer months are extremely hot, especially in the Inner Gorge. Temperatures here can reach past 100 degrees Fahrenheit. There are two rainy seasons at the canyon, one during the winter and one during the late summer. The summer storms are monsoon-like and often develop into thunderstorms. Flash flooding can occur on the canyon floor so hikers should be very careful when hiking in inclement weather. Grand Canyon weather forecasts can be checked at visitor centers and ranger stations before hiking into the canyon.