Grand Canyon National Park Announces 2026 North Rim Summer Season Access

Contact: Grand Canyon Office of Communications

Grand Canyon National Park will welcome visitors back to the North Rim for the 2026 summer season beginning at 6 a.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026.

All paved roadways within the park will reopen, including Highway 67, Cape Royal, and Point Imperial Roads. These scenic drives provide access to many of the North Rim's iconic viewpoints, including Point Imperial, Cape Royal, Roosevelt Point, Walhalla Overlook, and Angels Window. Vehicles over 22 feet in total length are not permitted on the Cape Royal and Point Imperial Roads due to tight turns, limited parking, and narrow roadway conditions.

The entire North Kaibab Trail will reopen May 15 for foot traffic only; stock use is suspended for the season. Trail maintenance and rehabilitation work will continue along the North Kaibab Trail throughout the 2026 season. Hikers should anticipate temporary trail closures or delays while crews continue to repair the trail. Post-fire hazards and weather events may also result in additional closures.

Parking at the North Kaibab Trailhead will be limited and is restricted to vehicles under 22 feet in length. Overflow parking will be available in the area adjacent to the site of the former Grand Canyon Lodge. The Bridle Path between the former Grand Canyon Lodge and the North Kaibab Trail will be open.

Backcountry users will also see some services return this year. Cottonwood Campground will reopen on May 15, providing an overnight option for hikers traveling along the North Kaibab Trail. Backcountry use will be permitted in most areas of the North Rim. The Backcountry Information Center will have the most current information on closures and overnight permits.

The North Rim Campground is expected to reopen for tent and RV camping (no hookups) once conditions allow. Campsite reservations will be made available on recreation.gov once an opening date is established.

For those seeking overnight accommodations, lodging is available outside the park. Overnight lodging will not be available on the North Rim in the park during the 2026 season. The nearest fuel, food, and water is available at the North Rim Country Store and at Jacob Lake.

Visitors are encouraged to check the park website for the latest updates before traveling to the North Rim.

For additional information, visit www.nps.gov/grca/northrimstatus.htm.

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