We're planning a week-long vacation in late June with our kids (11 and 14). We're flying into Las Vegas Saturday morning and have 2 nights open before we go spend 3 nights at Zion (Desert Pearl) and 2 nights at Bryce (Lodge). We assumed that it would be closer and less crowded at the North Rim of GC, but that lodge is full. So we're wondering whether to look for another place near the North Rim or change our plans and go to the South Rim instead. (We were also thinking of stopping at Glen Canyon Dam at some point.) We've heard the scenery is more spectacular at South Rim, but we wonder if it's worth the extra miles. We tend to like less touristy, quieter spots. Any lodging suggestions at either would be welcome.

I am curious. Just what other place near the North Rim of the Grand Canyon would you look for?
The North Rim lodging is full because it has no competition.
I think your choice is to spend the night well away from there, or just head for the South Rim, assuming your dates are still bookable.
Late June and the GC? Reservations get scarce.

Unless you really despise driving, I think it is a great choice to go to the south rim. You will get to see Hoover Dam on the way, and it is a pretty quick trip to Grand Canyon Village.

The drive from the south rim to Zion is also scenic and will allow you to see Lake Powell. That trip is approximately 285 miles total.

Many people feel the views of the canyon are more dramatic from the south rim. We loved the south rim, but are making our first trip to the north rim this summer, so I can't comment personally.

There is nothing near the North Rim BUT
if you are persistant and keep calling, there are always cancellations at any of the buildings connected with the hotel on the North Rim. We had the same situation. I called DAILY and we were fortunate enough to get a cabin. Keep trying.

The South Rim probably can't be described as "less touristy and quieter" in late June. But, things do get a bit quieter in the evenings after the day trip visitors depart.

Here is a link to lodging outside of the North Rim. I've never stayed at either one. Just be aware that driving in the area is slow going and the 45 miles from the N. Rim to Jacob Lake can take almost 2 hours to drive.

http://www.nps.gov/grca/grandcanyon/...im/lodging.htm

If you do the circle with the North Rim it's 675 miles.

If you do the circle with the South Rim it's 820 miles but it's will only take less than an hour longer to drive this route because the roads are much faster driving than the roads near the N. Rim.

Yes, it will be a little more crowded than the N. Rim, but IMHO you see much more of the canyon. You also get the bonus of driving by Lake Powell.

Don't forget to get your National Park Pass for $50 at the first park you enter. It will save you money.

Utahtea