randleman Posted January 29, 2012 Share Posted January 29, 2012 All, I'm trekking to the area the first week of May and wondering if it will be possible to reach the North Rim for photography. I have read that the NorthRrim does not open until mid-May, after my trip, but also have read that it is possible to reach the rim by alternative gravel road routes even when the main road is closed. I will be in a regular rental car - no four wheel drive, and wondering if it is worth it to try or if I should wait until I travel there in season. Any advice is most appreciated.Thanks!Brad Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
peter_e Posted January 29, 2012 Share Posted January 29, 2012 <p>Maybe you can get to the park entrance station, but then you still have about 10 miles to the rim. Keep in mind that the North Rim can get a fair amount of snow.</p> Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JamesFarabaugh Posted January 29, 2012 Share Posted January 29, 2012 <p>Snow isn't much of a concern this year. Snowfall in AZ is way down this winter.</p> Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sattler123 Posted January 30, 2012 Share Posted January 30, 2012 <p>It could go either way this year! I would wait until you are closer to your departure date and then check with National Park Service. If the roads are closed, then it would be close to impossible to get to the North Rim - unless you are prepared to ski in - that's a very, very long trek though!</p> Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
waltflanagan Posted January 30, 2012 Share Posted January 30, 2012 <p>If the main paved road is closed due to heavy snow and ice do you honestly think going down a gravel road in a regular 2WD car is a good idea?</p> <p>If you try it please take lots of food and supplies so we don't hear about them finding you months later... Also, taking the car off pavement violates most rental car agreements.</p> Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
david_daniel Posted January 30, 2012 Share Posted January 30, 2012 <p>Even if the road to the park, and INTO the park is open, I'd make the effort to go to the canyon rim on some of the roads you are talking about. For one thing, you can rent a car with good clearance, it doesn't have to be 4x4, just a suv or truck.<br> Do some google searches for Kanab Point for instance. If the roads are dry you can make it in a high clearance vehicle, its only the last few miles that are sorta rough. Nothing like standing on the rim of the Canyon ALL BY YOURSELF!</p> Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
steve_rasmussen Posted January 30, 2012 Share Posted January 30, 2012 <p>I will never forget the guy I met on the dirt road traveling west along the N. Rim. He was in a sedan and had a thin trail of oil behind him from a cracked oil pan. </p> Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
randleman Posted January 30, 2012 Author Share Posted January 30, 2012 <p>Thanks for all the responses - does not sound too encouraging! <br> That was my initial thought, but when I read about a potential alternative route I wanted to get some feedback, so thanks again to all. I believe I'll wait until I can schedule travel when the main road is open.<br> Brad</p> Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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