North Rim Access?

Does the highway used to reach the North Rim of the Grand Canyon really close until May? I know (at least I think I do) that most/all park services on that side close down for the winter, but since I was able to make the drive in November, I assumed it would be possible by mid/late march. A closure would mean frustrating changes to my itinerary for travel next week, so any info is much appreciated. Thanks.

Call the park, its probably the only way to know. I know it was closed last year around that time.

For the most part, yes. It is probably closed to the North Rim right now. It closes at the boundary with the Kaibob NF. You can go into the park on skis or snowshoes, but I think snowmobiles are prohibited.

But you can probably reach Toroweep through the forest service roads.

You got me curious. I checked the NPS site for the Grand Canyon. It sounds like the road to the northern rim closes at the firs snowfall and stays closed through mid-May. Not too much different from Trail Ridge Road. The blurb sounded like you might get trapped for the winter if you happened to be at the rim when the first snow happened. Check it out yourself ar http://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/hours.htm

I was there most definitely after the first snowfall a few years back, but it stays closed pretty late into the season. I wouldn't expect it to be open now.

About five years ago I was there in mid May and it opened that weekend. I didn't know it could be closed that late and it was just dumb luck that I timed it right.

Thanks to all for the quick replies, and especially the idea about Toroweap. I've been looking into taking advantage of that opportunity. I'm really looking forward to my visit your your neck of the woods.

Kent, FYI the road conditions to Toroweap get really nasty in wet weather. The soft clay road surface (out towards the rim) turns slicker than grease so try to get a good read on conditions before you head that way.

John