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North Kaibab Ranger District: Gateway to the Grand Canyon's North Rim

Discover the North Kaibab Ranger District: Where majestic forests meet the breathtaking vistas of the Grand Canyon's North Rim.

The North Kaibab Ranger District, nestled within the Kaibab National Forest in northern Arizona, serves as the primary gateway to the Grand Canyon's North Rim. Encompassing a vast plateau, it offers diverse landscapes from dense forests to panoramic canyon views.

A brief summary to North Kaibab Ranger District

  • Arizona, US

Local tips

  • Visit the Kaibab Plateau Visitor Center at Jacob Lake for information on trails, camping, and local attractions.
  • Check the weather forecast before heading out, as summer thunderstorms and winter snow are common.
  • Bring plenty of water, as reliable water sources are limited on the Kaibab Plateau.
  • Be aware of wildlife, including mule deer, elk, and mountain lions.
  • Pack out all trash, as there is no garbage service in many areas.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Fredonia, Arizona, drive south on US-89A towards Jacob Lake. At Jacob Lake, turn south onto AZ-67, which leads to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. This scenic drive offers views of the Kaibab Plateau. There are no tolls on this route. Parking is available at various viewpoints and trailheads along AZ-67. Limited parking is available at popular trailheads, especially during peak season.

  • Shuttle

    During the operating season, a hiker shuttle is available from the Grand Canyon Lodge to the North Kaibab Trailhead. Reservations are required and can be made at the front desk of the lodge 24 hours in advance. Check the Trans-Canyon Shuttle schedule for specific times and pick-up locations. A one-way trip from the South Rim to the North Rim costs $120.

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Discover more about North Kaibab Ranger District

The North Kaibab Ranger District welcomes visitors to a unique experience on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Located in the Kaibab National Forest, the district encompasses most of the Kaibab Plateau, an elevated island of forested land bordered by the Grand Canyon to the south and tributary canyons of the Colorado River to the east and west. The district's office is located in Fredonia, Arizona, with a visitor center at Jacob Lake. The term "Kaibab" originates from a Paiute Indian word meaning "mountain lying down". The area's history includes its establishment as part of the Grand Canyon Forest Reserve in 1893 and later as the Grand Canyon Game Preserve by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1906. In 1908, the forest reserve was renamed Kaibab National Forest, and in 1919, the Grand Canyon National Park was created from these Forest Service lands. Elevations within the district reach up to 9,000 feet, offering varied recreational opportunities. Hiking enthusiasts can explore trails like the iconic Arizona Trail and the challenging North Kaibab Trail, which descends into the Grand Canyon. Scenic drives along the Kaibab Plateau-North Rim Parkway provide breathtaking views and wildlife sightings. The district also features historic sites like the Jacob Lake Ranger Station, offering a glimpse into the area's conservation history. Visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, and exploring viewpoints such as the East Rim Viewpoint, which overlooks the Saddle Mountain Wilderness.

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