Overview
The Point Imperial Area Trail sits at the northeastern edge of the North Kaibab Plateau near the border of Grand Canyon National Park. At this latitude, the Kaibab Plateau approaches its highest elevations, and the forest transitions from ponderosa pine dominance to more spruce-fir and aspen characteristics. The 4-mile out-and-back is an easy forest walk suitable for families and visitors to the North Rim area who want a quiet trail experience away from the main canyon viewpoints.
The proximity to Point Imperial (the highest point on the North Rim at 8,803 feet) makes this forest section interesting from a landscape perspective: you're walking through the top of the forested platform that drops away dramatically at the canyon rim a short distance east. The trail stays in the forest rather than reaching the rim itself, delivering the plateau forest experience without the crowds at the canyon viewpoints inside Grand Canyon National Park.
This is the flattest and most accessible hike among the trails of the Kaibab National Forest, appropriate for an introductory outing or a rest-day walk during a North Rim visit. Many hikers carry 1-2 liters of water for this distance; no water sources exist on the trail; individual needs vary.
The Route
Miles 0 to 1.5: From the trailhead, the path moves through dense mixed conifer forest at approximately 8,500 feet elevation. The canopy is higher and denser than at lower plateau elevations. A meadow opening at about mile 1 provides views across the forest toward the canyon rim country to the east.
Miles 1.5 to 2.0: The trail climbs gradually to a viewpoint at the forest edge, where the trees thin enough to allow filtered views toward the canyon drainage. The turnaround point at mile 2 offers the best open views of the surrounding forest and the distant canyon landscape.
Miles 2.0 to 4.0 (return): Retrace the route back to the trailhead. The return is straightforward and comfortable.
When to Visit
Mid-May through October, matching the AZ-67 road opening season. The North Rim area is the cooler alternative to the South Rim, with summer temperatures rarely exceeding the mid-70s. Afternoon thunderstorms apply July through September but the forested terrain provides better cover than exposed rim trails.
Fall (September through October) is excellent: aspen color, reduced crowds, and active wildlife in advance of the November road closure.
What to Bring
- Water: many hikers carry 1-2 liters; individual needs vary
- Rain layer for afternoon storms July through September
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing in meadow sections
- Offline trail maps; no cell service at this location
This easy trail is a good opportunity to practice and discuss Leave No Trace 7 principles with children or newer hikers.
Practical Details
No permit or fee is required for this national forest trail as of 2026. The Grand Canyon North Rim entrance fee applies if continuing into the national park; the America the Beautiful Pass covers that fee. Veterans can review veteran benefits in national forests for eligible passes.
The nearest facilities (water, food, lodging) are at the Grand Canyon Lodge on the North Rim, approximately 8 miles south via AZ-67.
Getting There
From AZ-67 south of Jacob Lake: Continue south on AZ-67 approximately 28 miles to the signed Forest Road 611 turnoff. The trailhead is accessible from this junction.
From the Grand Canyon North Rim entrance station: Head north on AZ-67 approximately 5 miles to the FR 611 area. The drive from Flagstaff is approximately 3.5 hours.
Check current conditions with the North Kaibab Ranger District. See checking conditions before you go for resources.