North Rim set to reopen with limits as recovery continues

Grand Canyon Na­tional Park’s North Rim will reopen for the 2026 summer sea­son on May 15, with limited services and ongoing recovery work following last year’s wildfire damage, ac­cording to the National Park Service.

Angels Window with Mt. Humphreys in the background, March 20, 2026. NPS Photo/M. Forrest.

All paved roads inside the park, includ­ing Highway 67 and routes to Cape Royal and Point Imperial, are scheduled to re­open, restoring access to some of the North Rim’s most popular viewpoints. The North Kaibab Trail will also reopen for hiking, though stock use remains suspended and visitors should expect periodic delays as crews continue re­pairs.

Even as access re­turns, the North Rim will operate with nota­ble limitations. Over­night lodging inside the park will not be available this season, and some services re­main reduced. Camping is expected to re­open later, depending on conditions, while backcountry use will be allowed in most areas with updated guidance from park officials.

During the 2026 legislative session, Utah approved funding aimed at supporting tourism and ac­cess tied to the North Rim, recognizing the economic impact on nearby communities. While the state cannot fund reconstruc­tion within the park itself, the investment is intended to help maintain visitor access and reduce disruptions into southern Utah.

“A unanimous vote in the United States House shows broad, bipartisan support for a timely restoration of the North Rim,” Kane County Commis­sioner Celeste Meyeres said. “That support started locally, with states, counties, mu­nicipalities and tribal and industry partners coming together to re­spond, not react.”

That impact is felt locally in communities like Kanab and Fredo­nia, where many North Rim visitors stay and spend time.

“We’re excited for any North Rim reopen­ing that brings visitors through Fredonia and Kanab,” said Stepha­nie Johnson, co-owner of the Buckskin Tavern in Fredonia. “We’ve got a full summer of music and events planned, and we’re looking for­ward to welcoming people back.”

Officials emphasize that recovery is ongo­ing and conditions may change. Visitors are encouraged to check for updates before traveling and to plan for limited services.

For now, the North Rim is reopening in stages, with full res­toration expected to take more than a single season.