Best things to do on the North Rim for boomer travelers

Boomers will find plenty to do at the North Rim that don’t require hiking to the bottom of the canyon. You could spend most of the day taking a scenic drive, or try one of the moderate hikes or mule rides. But you’ll want to save time for short walks to scenic overlooks at sunrise and sunset.

The North Rim Visitor Center is a good place to start. Rangers are available to answer your questions (and lead special hikes and tours). Save time to browse the interpretive exhibits about cultural and natural history as well as the interesting collection of books at the Grand Canyon Association bookstore located inside the visitor center.

Take a North Rim scenic drive

Alan and I thoroughly enjoyed the 23-mile drive along Cape Royal Rd that crosses the Walhalla Plateau, ending at Cape Royal. If you only have one day to explore, this drive is a must and one of the best things to do in Grand Canyon North Rim.

You’ll get your fill of stupendous views into the canyon along Cape Royal Rd. There are also many opportunities to get out of the car for walks to scenic overlooks. So take your time to enjoy the drive.

At the end of road, Cape Royal sits at an elevation of 7,865 feet commanding expansive Grand Canyon views. In fact, it’s one of best viewpoints on both the North and South Rims. This is a highlight not to be missed, especially at sunset.

Point Imperial is another outstanding viewpoint along Cape Royal Rd. At 8803 feet, Point Imperial is the highest point in Grand Canyon National Park.

Because Point Imperial is the northernmost overlook of the Grand Canyon, you’ll get a different perspective from other viewpoints. The geology is especially interesting with glimpses of Precambrian rocks colored red and black, which you won’t see in other areas of the North Rim.

Be sure to pick up The North Rim pocket map and services guide, available at the park entrance, visitors center or download here, to plan your drive.

Day Hiking on the North Rim

You’ll find plenty of hiking options on the North Rim. From easy walks along rimside trails to an adventurous hike into the canyon, there’s a trail for every level of hiker. Here are some of the best day hikes on easy to moderate trails (with one strenuous one included for you hardy hikers).

Bright Angel Point Trail

You won’t be alone on this short walk (0.5 miles round trip on pavement) to the most popular observation point on the North Rim, Bright Angel Point. Popular at sunrise or sunset (for good reason), the steep, paved trail is worth walking at different times of day to see the colors of the Grand Canyon change before your eyes.

Transept Trail

Connecting Grand Canyon Lodge to North Rim Campground, the moderately easy Transept Trail winds through the forest along the edge of a side canyon (Transept Canyon). You might see mule deer or other wildlife along the 2-mile one-way path that’s always fairly busy.

There are also a couple of steep sections, but nothing too difficult. Returning via the Bridle Trail turns this into a loop hike.

Cape Final Trail

Cape Final trailhead is located on the road to Cape Royal. Look for a turnoff about 2.5 miles north of the Cape Royal parking area.

The mostly level, four-mile-round-trip hike takes you to a viewpoint with expansive views of the eastern Grand Canyon. You’ll see Vishnu Temple and Jupiter Temple from here.

You’ll also be standing on the easternmost top of the Walhalla Plateau. If you’re traveling with grandkids, this hike is for you.

Point Imperial Trail

After admiring the view at Point Imperial, enjoy this easy four-mile-round-trip hike. Although it passes through a burn area from the 2000 Outlet Fire, you’ll also be hiking along the plateau’s edge with excellent views of upper Nankoweap Creek.

The trail ends at the north park boundary. It’s possible to continue on, connecting with Nankoweap Trail, a wilderness route to the Colorado River (you’ll need a permit and backcountry hiking skills).

North Kaibab Trail to Roaring Springs

A strenuous day hike into the canyon is possible by taking the North Kaibab trail to Roaring Springs (9.4 miles round trip). Descending 3050 ft. to the turn-around point and back up again will take 7 to 8 hours.

You’ll pass through two interesting narrow sections on this rim to river trail, Supai Tunnel and Eye of the Needle. The National Park Service discourages day hikers from continuing beyond Roaring Springs, although the 28-mile journey to the Colorado River makes a fun multi-day hike (you’ll need a permit for Cottonwood Campground or a Phantom Ranch reservation).

The National Park Service website maintains a complete listing of North Rim hikes (check it out here). Please take time to read the safety tips.

Take a Grand Canyon mule ride

Experiencing the North Rim from the back of a mule is the ultimate Grand Canyon experience. And there’s a choice for every level of rider.

If your goal is to ride down into the Grand Canyon, book the steep, three-hour mule ride on the North Kaibab Trail. The journey turns around at Supai Tunnel, where you’ll stop to take photos (and a restroom break).

The three hour trip to Uncle Jim’s Point, a beautiful spot overlooking the North Kaibab Trail, is another option. This is a good choice for those who are afraid of heights.

Relaxing on a one-hour ride through the Kaibab Forest is an option for those who want to say they rode a mule at the Grand Canyon but don’t want the adventure of riding into the canyon. You’ll stay mostly in the forest with some canyon rim views.