Hiking the Rim
We were glad to have new batteries for the heat on the cold nights at an elevation near 9000 feet. Our last night was 32 F. It would have been warmer 30 miles away at Jacobs Lake with internet. But we liked being closer to the Grand Canyon much better.
First we headed to Bright Angel Point which is the most popular viewpoint at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, since the other overlooks need quite a few more miles of driving to reach and the Cape Royal Road was closed. A 0.4 mile path leads to the viewing area, starting behind Grand Canyon Lodge in front of the large North Rim parking area, Although paved, the trail is quite steep in a few places, causing some of those unaccustomed to hiking, especially at this high elevation (8,100 feet), to get out of breath.
e
Even though the temps were cool, the sun was very warm.
After all of the ooooing and ahhhing while walking along the rime trail, we headed over to the Widforss Trailhead.
Like most footpaths on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, the 5 mile Widforss Trail runs across the plateau passing close to the side of a deep, red-walled ravine (The Transept) for the first half then turning away through the forest before emerging into the open near Widforss Point.
Very few people and lots of views to take in.
The cabins were open overlooking the rim even though the campground never opened this summer.
We squeezed a ride from the campground to the entrance to the Park one evening.
A three year drought has dampened the changing of the leaves in Southern Utah. They were drying and turning brown before falling to the ground. We enjoyed the fall colors once we hit Arizona.
We finally made it to the North Rim last year... quite different on that side of the canyon.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely worth the drive.
DeleteWow! Stunning! I've always loved National Parks in the fall, such pretty colors. Looks like a wonderful hike!
ReplyDeleteIt was perfect timing.
DeleteAwesome photos. Love the one of the people in silhouette. The North Rim seems to be the place to go. They just have a short season because of all the snow. It's still on our list!
ReplyDeleteIt was worth the drive.
DeleteWe were at the North Rim 15 years ago and loved it. You were there at the perfect time for fall colors! Your photo of the red ravine on your hike is gorgeous. Another place we want to go back to. Our list is long. :-)
ReplyDeleteThe list never seems to shorten.
ReplyDeleteI had no idea that the campground at the North Rim didn't open this summer. But the cabins did? That makes no sense. I love the North Rim for its more quiet and primitive feel. Thanks for the pictures. Don't think I'd care at all for 30 degrees.
ReplyDeleteIt was pretty cold in the mornings but peaceful as you said.
ReplyDelete