Cool Arizona Places: Grand Canyon North Rim

Few places in Arizona has a more winter like climate than the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Many Arizonans think that it is completely closed during the winter months. That is not really accurate.  If is true that the National Park Service closes the “park’ on October 15th or earlier if snow closes the road. 

The Grand Canyon North Rim retains a sense of solitude, a remote wilderness rich with scenic hiking trails and overlooks with spectacular vistas. The North Rim beckons day hikers, who want to traipse through meadow areas of willowy aspen and spruce trees, and breathe crisp, Alpine air – all under vast, blue skies.

But hiking, cross country skiing and camping can go on year round. Here are some winter activities you may want to consider. Trail info was current when written – February 5th 2014. Please check!

The North Rim Yurt is open for reservation.
The North Rim yurt, placed near the North Kaibab Trailhead, can be reserved from December 1 to April 15. The yurt accommodates six people and is outfitted with a table, chairs, and wood-burning stove. A portable toilet is nearby. Required permits are available through the Backcountry Information Center. For more information see www.nps/gov/grca/planyourvisit/winter-recreation.htm

Grandview Trail: Two inches or less of snow is on the ground at the trailhead. Ice and snow are on the trail down to the Coconino Saddle. Very icy and slick conditions, strongly recommend using over-the-shoe traction devices.

Tanner and New Hance Trails: Snow and ice for at least the first mile, over-the-shoe traction devices are strongly recommended.

South Kaibab Trail: About a half inch of snow is on the ground. Snow and ice on the trail until just above Ooh Aah Point. Over-the-shoe traction devices are recommended.

Bright Angel Trail: Dusting of snow at the trailhead. There is a compact layer of snow and ice for the first mile. Over-the-shoe traction devices are recommended.

North Kaibab Trail: A small section of the North Kaibab Trail below Supai Tunnel was damaged in September 2013 due to heavy rain. The North Kaibab Trail is currently open to hikers but not to stock below Supai Tunnel. Hikers should use caution. The damaged section is very narrow, but passable. The trail crew has installed a handline to assist hikers when crossing the narrow section. The handline stretches across the length of the washout, and then some (about 15 to 16 feet). The damaged section will not be repaired until spring 2014.

When hiking in winter be sure to visit the Winter Hiking webpage for winter hiking information. Weather and road conditions: http://nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/weather-condition.htm

Aaron’s Mechanical Services wants you to stay comfortable all year round.  If your furnace, heating system or HVAC unit needs service or replacement please think of us and call at 623-388-4436 and we will come to you and solve your Heating Unit service needs.

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Aaron’s Mechanical Services
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