Pros & cons
PROS
- Fossils embedded in the rimrock at Uncle Jim Point
- Restrooms near the overlook—a rare convenience for a view hike
- Often quieter than rim-to-river routes but with big-canyon vistas
CONS
- Shared with park mules—expect manure, dust, and yielding
- Short burn sections can feel exposed despite an overall shaded route
- Seasonal access only when the North Rim is open
Park at the North Kaibab Trailhead lot (shared with Ken Patrick and North Kaibab), about 2 miles north of the North Rim Lodge; the trail starts by the mule corral.
No water on the trail; high elevation can affect exertion. Yield to mule trains. Mountain lion advisory signage is posted. Avoid extending onto the unmaintained Ken Patrick east section.
This is the North Rim hike for people who want big Grand Canyon vistas without the punishing grades. The Uncle Jim Trail is a forested loop of about 4.7–5 miles total with a gentle ~200–230 feet of gain, starting near the North Kaibab Trailhead. It’s well signed, easy to follow, and generally quiet compared to the rim-to-river routes.
What you’ll see
Expect a mellow wander through ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and aspen, with occasional openings created by past burn areas that add unexpected views and a look at regrowth. The payoff is Uncle Jim Point: sweeping looks into Roaring Springs Canyon and Bright Angel Canyon, the North Kaibab Trail far below, and—on clear days—distant landmarks like the San Francisco Peaks, Zoroaster Temple, and Bill Williams Mountain. At the point, look for marine fossils embedded in the rimrock—a reminder this high country was once seafloor.
Route gist
Park at the North Kaibab Trailhead area (about 2 miles north of the North Rim Lodge). The first mile follows the Ken Patrick Trail on easy grades and is shared with park mules. Around 0.9 mile, a clear, log-lined junction sends the Uncle Jim loop to the right; from there the path dips through a small drainage, climbs briefly, and works out to the overlook before closing the loop back to the start. You can hike it in either direction. There are restrooms near the overlook.
Trail feel and who it’s for
This loop is accessible to most hikers in good health: mostly packed dirt with some uneven bits, no exposure, and high-elevation air over 8,000 feet that keeps summer temperatures pleasant. You may see deer and plenty of birds, and you might encounter mule strings—part of the North Rim’s character here.
Tips and logistics
- No water on the trail—bring your own. Layer up; weather changes fast at this elevation.
- Dogs aren’t allowed. The route is shared with stock; yield to mule trains.
- Stick with the Uncle Jim loop rather than trying to extend far on the unmaintained Ken Patrick east section.
- No permit is required for day hiking beyond the standard park entrance fee.
Best time to hike
The North Rim is typically open mid-May to mid-October. Within that window, late spring through early fall is prime. Summer stays cooler than the South Rim thanks to elevation, and early autumn brings golden aspen. Start early for quieter trails and the most comfortable temperatures.
Elevation
4.9 mi · 2.1 hrWildlife on this trail
Near Uncle Jim Trail
All places →All trails →
Hopi PointThe South Rim’s go-to sunset perch with sweeping river viewsScenic Viewpoint
Mather PointThe South Rim’s classic, easy overlook with big sunrise and sunset viewsScenic Viewpoint · Parking
Cape RoyalNorth Rim’s widest panorama with Angel’s Window en routeTrailhead · Restroom
Desert View WatchtowerMary Colter tower with murals and sweeping canyon-to-desert viewsRestroom · Parking
South Kaibab TrailGrand Canyon’s ridgeline stunner with nonstop views and a steep, dry plungeChallenging · 7 mi · 5.5 hr
Bright Angel TrailThe canyon’s classic descent with water stops and all-day viewsChallenging · 9.5 mi · 10.5 hr
North Kaibab TrailGrand Canyon’s quietest rim-to-river epic from the North RimChallenging · 14 mi · 12 hr
Deer Creek TrailHard North Rim trek to Deer Creek narrows and 180-foot fallsChallenging · 23 mi · 48 hr
