Uncle Jim Trail

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.