Grand Canyon North Rim Set to Reopen May 15 for 2026 Summer Season

Grand Canyon National Park announced today it is taking an adaptive approach to the seasonal reopening of the North Rim, evaluating potential impacts from winter weather to park infrastructure after the Dragon Bravo Fire. The gates open at 6 a.m. on Friday, May 15.

The Dragon Bravo Fire burned 145,000 acres last summer, forcing widespread closures and destroying more than 100 park buildings, including the historic Grand Canyon Lodge. The entire North Rim remained closed after the fire, though portions were briefly reopened in the fall before winter weather arrived. The fire's footprint shapes nearly every operational decision the park is making for 2026.

All paved roadways within the park will reopen, including Highway 67, Cape Royal, and Point Imperial Roads. Vehicles over 22 feet will not be allowed on Cape Royal and Point Imperial Roads. Those roads access many of the North Rim's iconic viewpoints and scenic drives, including Roosevelt Point, Walhalla Overlook, and Angels Window.

For hikers, the North Kaibab Trail will reopen on May 15, but with a critical restriction: stock use is suspended for the season and the trail reopens to foot traffic only. Parking at the North Kaibab Trailhead will be tight and restricted to vehicles under 22 feet; overflow parking is available near the former Grand Canyon Lodge site, with the Bridle Path connecting the two areas open to facilitate access. Expect some hiccups along the way: the North Kaibab Trail and portions of the Arizona Trail remain closed due to post-fire public safety concerns, and the park is actively evaluating trail conditions throughout the winter to determine the feasibility of reopening these routes by May 15.

Backcountry users will see some services return this year, including Cottonwood Campground. Backcountry use will be permitted in most areas of the North Rim, and the Backcountry Information Center will carry the most current information on closures and overnight permits. Any overnight stay inside the canyon requires a permit from the Backcountry Information Center. The North Rim Campground is expected to reopen for tent and RV camping without hookups, but campsite reservations will not be available on recreation.gov until an exact opening date is established.

The one thing you will not find on the North Rim this summer: a bed inside the park. Overnight lodging will not be available on the North Rim in the park during the 2026 season; the nearest fuel, food, and water are available at the North Rim Country Store and at Jacob Lake.

Park officials' guiding principle for the upcoming season is: "We will open what we can, where we can, when we can," prioritizing visitor safety, resource protection, and operational readiness. Superintendent Ed Keable reinforced that commitment: "Our goal is to provide access to the North Rim as quickly and responsibly as possible with an emphasis on safety. We are committed to keeping the public and our partners informed as we learn more about the impacts of winter weather and the Dragon Bravo Fire."

Park officials are aware of the planning challenges facing local communities, businesses, and visitors and have committed to providing specific details about the 2026 North Rim season no later than April 1, 2026. Until then, check Grand Canyon National Park's website for updates, or call the NPS road closure recording line at 928-638-7496 before heading out.