The longer trails drop farther as well, as much as 6,400 feet, because North Rim elevations are generally 1,000 feet higher than South Rim points. As elsewhere in the Canyon, the traditional rhythm of hiking is turned upside down, with the hardest uphill work coming last, not first. Only one maintained North Rim trail descends into the Grand Canyon, and the North Kaibab Trail receives the bulk of use here for good reasons. It is a highly scenic, excellent trail that offers something for everyone, from the strolling day hiker to the backpacker taking the plunge. But there are numerous North Rim trails atop the Kaibab plateau that afford day hiking opportunities, and some are open to backcountry camping.
Snow closes the North Rim in winter, while the South Rim remains open.
Arizona Highway 67 the previous autumn. Planning and preparation, of top importance in all Grand Canyon forays, are especially so up north, where services are less plentiful. All camping in the Canyon requires a backcountry use permit. If you arrive at the Backcountry Reservations Office expecting to obtain a permit for that day, week, or even month, you will very likely be disappointed. The Grand Canyon is a separate realm.