Grand Canyon’s North Rim to transition to modified operations for fall

Grand Canyon National Park is modifying its operations at the North Rim for fall starting on Oct. 15, officials announced.

The North Rim Backcountry Information Center closes for the season at noon on Oct. 15. However, backcountry recreational opportunities will still be available for the North Rim. Backcountry permits will also be available at the South Rim Backcountry Information Center and online.

The General Store closes at 4 p.m. while the North Rim Campground shutters on the morning of Oct. 16, both are operated by Aramark.

As part of the transition, starting at sunset on Oct. 15, Cape Royal Road and Point Imperial Road will also be closed until sunrise on Nov. 3 to accommodate road repair and rehabilitation work being done in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration.

Additionally, visitors will need to ensure they have enough fuel before entering the North Rim as the North Rim gas station closed on Sept. 19 and fuel is not available within the park.

Fuel, food and lodging is available around 45 miles north of the North Rim at Jacob Lake.

“As we transition to modified fall operations, visitors should plan ahead, monitor changing conditions and be prepared to travel self-sufficiently,” Grand Canyon National Park Superintendent Ed Keable said in a news release. “We encourage everyone planning a North Rim visit to check current conditions, carry adequate food, water, fuel and emergency supplies, and use extra caution as winter weather arrives.”

At sunset on Nov. 30 or after the first major snowstorm, whichever comes first, the North Rim entrance gate on State Route 67 will close.

Those who are visiting the North Rim before the gate closes should still be prepared for winter driving conditions on SR 67 and throughout the park as snow, ice and rain are common in the area during this time of year. The National Park Service noted that emergency responses will be limited and may be significantly delayed.

The North Kaibab Trail remains completely closed after a Aug. 29 flash flood that left three people dead and caused extensive damage to infrastructure in Bright Angel Canyon.

Visitors can learn current road conditions by calling Arizona Highway Information at 1-888-411-7623. They can also view current park conditions and closures online.

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