Message: My husband, 9 year daughter and I are planning a camping trip to southern Utah National Parks (Zion, Bryce, Arches) during the first two weeks of April, 2002. We want to see the Grand Canyon too, but we are not too excited about driving from southern Utah to the South Rim entrance because of the distance. (We're driving to Utah from Michigan and want to minimize driving as much as possible once we reach Utah). My question is this: is it possible to get good views of the Grand Canyon from the north rim? We understand the National Park portion of the north rim is not open until mid May. Is it possible though, to get the "Grand Canyon experience" from Kaibab Camper Village, Kaibab National Forest, Jacob's Lake Campground, or Tuweep? We are only looking for good trails and spectacular views (including views of the Colorado River) into the canyon, not necessarily the programmed/developed National Park experience.

Lastly, and perhaps the most important question...are we going to freeze our tails off camping in southern Utah parks and the North Rim at this time of year? We are hardy campers, but there is limit! Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

ttt

The normal season for the North Rim of the GC is mid May until mid October, depending on weather.
I don't think the road will be open in mid April unless there is an early snow melt. Even so no facilities will be open that I know of.

I did not read carefully enough. Jacobs Lake is about 40 miles from the canyon. I think you should be able to get into to Toroweep or Tuweap points if you have a high clearance vehicle.
The views are good from there, and the elevation is much lower than even the south rim. Elevation is about 4,600 feet and little snow usually will be found in April. I think that is your best bet for a view of the canyon from the North. Primitive camping, narrow dirt road. So be prepared for really roughing it. That means plenty of drinking water per person and a full tank of gas for that 60 mile dirt road.

We drove from Zion to the Grand Canyon last April 9th, and the drive wasn't bad. I don't know about views from the North Rim because it was snowing so hard, we couldn't see anything for the first day! So...weather-wise you need to be prepared for anything! It changes quickly this time of year. We weren't expecting snow - but we had a blizzard at the Grand Canyon for two days. But...no Snow at Zion, but it was pretty cold at night,though. It was also just a gorgeous park! Have a great time!