Overlanding the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon is arguably one of the most popular National Parks in all of America, but little do most people know, you can actually partake in overlanding in the park. I have never participated in overlanding on the North Rim specifically, but I have hiked down to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and back up, which is just as fun. Either way, with so much room to explore throughout the National Park, it is a great spot for you to go overlanding. You will also most likely have to get a permit in order to camp in the area since it is a national park, but that is something we will discuss in greater detail later on. I did have to get a permit even though I wasn’t overlanding, so speaking from experience you will certainly have to get a permit.

How Difficult is the Grand Canyon North Rim?

This is one of the longest overlanding trips that you may ever go on, as there are 547 miles of road to be traveled along the North Rim. You can go as far or as little as you would like, but with the beast of the Grand Canyon, you can certainly imagine why this trail would be so long. Besides the length of the trip it is actually not that difficult on the technical rating scale as it sits between the blue and green section. If you do not know what this means, all you really need to understand is that the blue and green sections are the easiest rankings, relatively speaking.

What Should You Bring to Overland in Grand Canyon North Rim

Camping at the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park
Camping at the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park

This is definitely the most important piece of the article so don’t go away just yet! When we initially sat down and researched these items we created a lengthy list of what you would need. However for the sake of time we have shortened this list to be the most important things that you should bring with you rather than absolutely everything that you can bring. Enjoy!

First up we have packing cubes, which for any type of trip, large or small, packing cubes will be a total game changer! Use these to keep yourself organized and to avoid overpacking. The cubes come in different sizes and in a variety of bright colors, and even include shoe and laundry cases, too! We never travel without using our handy packing cubes.

Next we have a LifeStraw water bottle! You’ll definitely need a good reusable water bottle for your trip to the Grand Canyon. While you’re out hiking under the hot sun, it’s important to stay hydrated. This LifeStraw water bottle comes with a built in filter to ensure the water you’re drinking is fresh and clean. Plus, using a reusable water bottle is a great way to protect the environment and save yourself money spent on single-use plastic bottles, too!

Last but not least, we have a daypack which is what you may arguably use the most whenever you are in the Grand Canyon. Use it to carry everything you’ll need during the day, including sunscreen, snacks, water bottle, swimsuit, towel, and more. This daypack in particular is awesome because it’s sturdy, reliable, and large enough to hold anything you might need for a day trip or excursion.

Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon National Park

Where to Camp Along the Grand Canyon North Rim Backcountry

North Rim Campground near Near North Rim, Arizona

Grand Canyon National Park | Reservations Suggested

Location: 36.209524, -112.060168

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Point Sublime Campground

Grand Cayon National Park | Designated Campground

Location: 36.19837750, -112.25066290

Cost: $8 per night

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Fire Point Campground

Grand Canyon National Park

Location: 36.3563, -112.3572

Indian Hollow Campground near Jacob Lake, AZ

National Park Service | Reservations + First Come, First Served Campground

Location: 36.4624834, -112.4849063

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How Do I Get to the Grand Canyon North Rim?

If you do not already know where the Grand Canyon is, it is located well north of Phoenix, Arizona. The canyon itself is about 277 miles long and up to 18 miles wide depending on the area. Besides flying to Arizona, for specifics about how to get to the Grand Canyon North Rim we suggest entering the location in your GPS for further details.

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