North Rim Itinerary Suggestions & Sunrise/set spots

Question

Hello! My family of 5 will be spending 1 night at Grand Canyon Lodge in mid-June. I have been to the south rim of the GC 4 times, but I have never been to the north rim. I am traveling with 4 people who have never been to either ~ very exciting! We will arrive to the north rim around 12noon on Saturday and departing around 10am on Sunday. We are hikers but not hardcore, super fit, hikers. We have done 3 to 4 mile (roundtrip) hikes many times. We do have some experience with elevation gain hikes (i.e. Delicate Arch, North Ridge trail to Cadillac Mountain as examples),

I welcome your suggestions on must-do experiences at the north rim. In addition to a "best" hike of about 4 miles total, I am very interested in where you would go for sunset and sunrise. Many, many, thanks in advance!

Answer

The North Rim of the Grand Canyon offers a quieter, less crowded experience than the South Rim, with equally stunning views and unique trails. Given your timing—arriving around noon on Saturday and leaving the next morning—you can maximize your visit with a combination of scenic viewpoints, a moderate hike, and sunrise/sunset spots.

Arrival and Afternoon Activities:

Check in at Grand Canyon Lodge upon arrival.
Take a short drive or shuttle to Cape Royal for panoramic views. This is especially stunning in the afternoon light.
Walk the Bright Angel Point Trail—an easy, 0.5-mile round trip from the lodge, offering dramatic canyon views. Perfect for your first taste of the North Rim.

Suggested 4-Mile Hike:

Widforss Trail – This is the classic moderate hike (~4 miles round trip). It starts near the lodge and offers a mix of forested trail and cliffside viewpoints. You’ll get a more intimate perspective of the canyon with less foot traffic compared to rim drives.

Sunset Spot:

Point Imperial – The highest point on the North Rim with expansive views over the canyon. About a 20-minute drive from the lodge, it is spectacular at sunset with dramatic shadows and colors.
Alternatively, Bright Angel Point provides a closer, easy-access sunset view.

Sunrise Spot:

Cape Royal – Famous for sunrise views along the eastern portion of the canyon. The long viewpoint provides a sweeping perspective with sunlight illuminating multiple canyon walls.
If you prefer something closer to the lodge, Bright Angel Point Trail can also provide a memorable sunrise experience with minimal walking early in the morning.

Additional Tips:

Arrive early for parking at popular viewpoints during peak season.
Carry water, snacks, and sun protection; shade is limited along rim trails.
Even with moderate hikes, be mindful of the altitude (~8,000 feet), which can affect stamina compared to lower elevations.
Photography: Late afternoon and early morning light provide the best color contrasts for photos.

With this itinerary, you can enjoy the key highlights of the North Rim, complete a moderate hike, and experience both sunrise and sunset without feeling rushed. It’s a perfect introduction for your family’s first visit.

North Rim Itinerary Suggestions & Sunrise/set spots

More Grand Canyon National Park Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions