Grand Canyon North Rim to Close for the Winter on November 14

Grand Canyon National Park has announced that the North Rim will shut down for the winter season on Friday, November 14, 2025 at 5:20 p.m. This marks the end of a shortened autumn access period that followed months of disruption from the Dragon Bravo Fire.

Why the Early Closure?

Although the North Rim was reopened with limited access earlier this fall, a significant shift in the forecast is prompting an early shutdown. Meteorologists are calling for snow and winter storm conditions beginning this weekend, and the park is taking precautions before the weather makes travel and operations unsafe.

The landscape is still showing the effects of the recent wildfire:

• weakened and fire-damaged trees

• unstable slopes

• debris and rock hazards

• limited emergency access

These conditions make it unsafe for visitors, staff, and responders as colder weather moves in.

Areas Included in the Closure

Beginning November 14, the following areas will be fully closed for the winter season:

• The North Rim developed area

• All North Rim roads

• Surrounding viewpoints and facilities

• Selected backcountry routes

• The North Kaibab Trail, which has ongoing rockfall and structural damage

These restrictions support both the park’s annual winter protocols and additional measures related to the Dragon Bravo Fire recovery zone. Anyone ignoring closure notices may be subject to enforcement actions.

When Will the North Rim Reopen?

The National Park Service currently anticipates a May 15, 2026 reopening date. This is tentative and depends on:

• seasonal snowmelt

• road and trail repairs

• infrastructure checks

• hazard-mitigation work across fire-impacted areas

Park officials will provide updated guidance as conditions improve.

Where to Get Updates

Visitors planning 2026 trips should check the National Park Service’s North Rim status page for trail conditions and reopening information: www.nps.gov/grca/northrimstatus.htm