North Kaibab Trail
✓ Verified against the agency · NPSThe long descent from the North Rim to the river — 14 mi through the deepest part of the corridor. Foot-traffic only in 2026 (no mules) with active waterline construction between Cottonwood and Roaring Springs.
Distance
15.8 km
Max elevation
8,241 ft (rim)
Duration
6–8 hr
Safety classification
DifficultyMulti-day trek
GuideNo guide needed
GearNo technical gear
OfficialYes
MaintainedYes
Season
North Rim road open ~mid-May to mid-Oct only. Foot-traffic only in 2026 (no stock). Active waterline construction between Cottonwood and Roaring Springs — water unreliable.
Hazards
- ▲heat in the inner canyon
- ▲unreliable water 2026
- ▲14 mi with ~1,750 m of ascent to the rim
The long descent from the North Rim; a corridor backpacking route with a permit, not a day hike.