Grand Canyon North Kaibab Trail

The North Kaibab Trail is the only maintained trail from the North Rim that drops into  the Grand Canyon. You can take a short hike to Coconino Overlook (1.5 miles round-trip) or even to Supai Tunnel (4 miles round-trip) and get spectacular views of the beauty of the Grand Canyon and the immense size of the canyon.

If you are in good shape, consider taking a hike to Roaring Springs. The hike back up to the rims is very strenuous and takes a full day (7-8 hours). Be sure you start your hike early in the morning, ideally before 7 a.m. Roaring Spings is 3,050 feet below the North Rim and round trip is 9.4 miles in length.

If you are day hiking, going beyond Roaring Springs is not recommended. For the most part, day hikers that go beyond Roaring Springs during the hottest part of the day are at great risk of suffering from heat related illness. You also need to be aware that mules use this trail.

Be aware that round trip to the Colorado River is 28 miles and the trail drops almost 6,000 feet. You should not attempt to hike from the rim to the river and back in one day. Do not hike during the hottest part of the day and remember to hike smart.