Grand Canyon ~ North Rim

After leaving Zion on 7/25, we made the short drive to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon (2.5 hours). On our way in, we drove through the Kaibab National Forest and noticed about 10 mi of burned trees. Learned there had been a forest fire a few years ago ... a common occurrence here with high elevations. Lightening strikes are responsible for approximately 90% of the fires in these areas. We arrived a bit early, but our cabin was ready and the porter unpacked our van and drove us to our cabin in his golf cart. We had a 2 BR cabin with a bath in the between the two rooms. No air conditioning needed as it was 67 degrees when we arrived. Views of the canyon from our bedroom windows were wonderful. After several days in warm temps, we were all convinced that the cool temps were marvelous.

The North Rim elevation is higher than the South Rim which keeps the temperatures cool. In addition, we learned that 1 out of 10 Grand Canyon visitors visit the North Rim. It was busy there and they had no vacancies, but not nearly as crowded as I remember the South Rim to be. Prior to dinner we sat out on the veranda on their wicker and log framed seats, had a drink and enjoyed the views. The boys thought the canyon was great - so much bigger than any of the other canyons we'd seen so far. We enjoyed dinner in the historic lodge and then retired to our cabin for a game of Kings in the Corner. (No TV in the cabins, thankfully!)

The next morning, Dave and Ash got up early and took a short hike. We had breakfast in the lodge and then hiked a bit out to a point where we had some photos taken. Dave identified the numbers of the cabins with a "perfect" view ... so if you ever go to the North Rim, take note: You want to request cabin 309, 310 or 312.