Delayed Opening for Grand Canion’s North Rim Because of Snow

Because of record-setting snowfall, the North Rim of the Grand Canyon will not be open until June.

According to the National Park Service, the North Rim will reopen for summer this June 2. It is less popular than the South Rim which opens in May. Officials have to delay the opening of the North Rim in May so they can safely plow State Route 67 following more than 250 inches of snowfall.

"We appreciate the patience and cooperation of our neighbors and visitors with this delay as our partners and park staff work to open the North Rim roads, trails, and facilities safely," Ed Keable, park Superintendent mentioned in a statement.
According to the NPS, the North Rim is closed to the public every winter. However, it can still be used for snowshoeing and backcountry camping (with a permit), cross-country skiing and backcountry camping. Because only 10% of park visitors make it to the North Rim, this has been a popular option for those who want to take the less traveled road.

The North Rim offers stunning views from beautiful lookout points such as Bright Angel Point or the Redwall Bridge.

The NPS stated that while most roads will reopen by June, there are some roads that won't reopen before July. These include the Cape Royal and Point Imperial roads. This extended closure is due snow removal, damage assessment and road repairs.

This year, the Grand Canyon isn’t the only one to receive record amounts of snow. Utah, Utah's neighbor to the north, received more than 700 inches last month. This was the highest snowfall the state has seen in a single month. A record-breaking snowfall in California means that one California ski resort will be open until at least July.

If you don't have the time or desire to travel to the Grand Canyon, the South Rim is available year-round. For those who want the best weather, the best time to visit is now with April through June offering the best temperatures.

Source: travelandleisure.com