
North Rim Excursion
​​Trip Description
The North Rim of the Grand Canyon offers a secluded and stunning backcountry experience, far from the crowds of the South Rim. Pine forests, aspen groves, and open meadows host roaming elk and bison, while remote viewpoints provide some of the most breathtaking canyon vistas.
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This route begins at Highway 67, north of the North Rim Visitor Center, and leads to Sublime Point—one of the most accessible viewpoints. After soaking in the scenery, you'll move through pine forests and past Kanabownits Lookout before reaching Fredonia, the first fuel stop. From there, the journey continues through Parashant National Monument, a vast wilderness with ample opportunities for dispersed camping.
Key highlights include Jumpup Point, SB Point, and the dramatic Toroweap Point, known for its sheer cliffs and views of the Colorado River below. You can also explore ancient petroglyphs at Nampaweap, visit Bar 10 Ranch, and hike down to the river via Whitmore Canyon Road or camp on the ridge.
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The adventure wraps up with stops at Whitmore Point, Mt. Trumbull Historic Schoolhouse, and the rugged paths leading to Kelly Point and Twin Point—some of the North Rim’s most remote viewpoints. Finally, the route exits through historic mining areas, passing Grand Gulch Mine before concluding in St. George, Utah.
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Due to its remote nature, this journey requires careful planning, fuel management, and an appreciation for backcountry exploration. With fewer visitors and endless opportunities for solitude, this route offers an unforgettable Grand Canyon experience.
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**Be prepared for varying types of roads and unpredictable weather conditions. As always, expect the unexpected. Adventure is subject to change.
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***You are responsible for any admission/entry fees for The North Rim. In addition to potentially obtaining any backcountry camping permits once you arrive. More info below:
https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/backcountry-permit.htm
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Trail/Region History
The Grand Canyon is world renowned and has a fascinating geological history that spans billions of years. The Grand Canyon itself is a result of the Colorado River cutting through layers of rock, revealing a rich geological record. The rock layers exposed in the Grand Canyon range in age from about 200 million to nearly 2 billion years old!
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Off-Road Miles
​Up to 530mi~ SPARE FUEL REQUIRED (Bring Rotopax/Jerry Cans to fill just in case)
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Trip Duration
Depending on personal pace, this adventure could take you 1 to 2 weeks
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Trail Difficulty
Easy to Easy-Medium: Most of the route consists of maintained dirt and gravel fire roads or service roads, but there could be some slower possibly rockier terrain. I've focused on sticking to relatively easier trails throughout the duration of this route.
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Vehicle Recommendations
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Spare Fuel - (300+mi between gas stations in some sections. Bring what you need depending on your vehicle)
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Stock or High Clearance 4x4
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Off-road capable tires (plus wheel key)
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Full-size spare
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Recommended Equipment
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20,000+lb Tow Strap or Recovery/Snatch Strap
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2x Shackles
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Minimum Recommended Equipment
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Fire Extinguisher
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First Aid Kit/Personal Medication
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Extra Water
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Extra Fuel
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Vehicle Unique Tools
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Warm Emergency Clothing
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Camping
Camping will be in random wild/dispersed locations depending on timing. With that in mind, bring appropriate gear for packing out your trash, and potty waste.
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If you have any questions regarding this trip please reach out to me
