Kaibab Plateau – North Rim Parkway

The Kaibab Plateau – North Rim Parkway is in north-central Arizona about 35 miles south of the Utah/Arizona border. The northern access is in Jacob Lake off US Alternate 89, about 30 miles southeast of Fredonia. The byway travels south to North Rim in Grand Canyon National Park.

The 44-mile route follows AZ 67, a paved, two-lane road suitable for all vehicles. The road ends in North Rim; you’ll need to retrace the route back to Jacob Lake. Due to heavy winter snow, the byway is usually closed from mid to late November through mid-May.

This scenic byway crosses the high-elevation plateau known as the Kaibab Plateau through dense forests of pine, fir, and aspen. Piute Indians call this high plateau “the mountain lying down” or “Kaibab.” The byway crosses the Kaibab National Forest and ends at the northern rim of the spectacular Grand Canyon National Park.

Recreation opportunities abound in the Kaibab National Forest. Those interested in hiking, backpacking, or horseback riding will have access to two wilderness areas. Saddle Mountain Wilderness lies to the west; Kanab Creek Wilderness to the southeast. Although the byway is closed during winter, the national forest remains open to winter sport enthusiasts. Snowpacked national forest roads provide excellent opportunities for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.

There are three developed campgrounds along or near the byway: Jacob Lake, Indian Hollow, and Demotte. Jacob Lake Campground sits at an elevation of 7,900 feet and has 53 sites with tables, cooking grills, and water. Demotte Campground has 20 campsites; Indian Hollow has three. Camping is not restricted, however, to the developed camp-grounds. If you prefer solitude and privacy, you may camp nearly anywhere within the forest boundary. Some of the more popular and accessible primitive camping areas are shown on the map.

The diversity of wildlife inhabiting the region provides entertainment for the photographer, bird-watcher, and nature lover. Mule deer and wild turkey are among the many species of wildlife found in this part of Arizona.

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