Ken Patrick Trail
A quiet rim walk through recovering North Rim forest
About
The Ken Patrick Trail traces the forested North Rim escarpment between Point Imperial and the North Kaibab Trailhead, and in 2026 only part of it is open to hikers. The 3-mile (one-way) eastern segment from Point Imperial to Cape Royal Road remains accessible, following the canyon rim through Douglas fir and aspen forest that's still recovering from past wildfires, with views opening up where the trees thin out. The western section, running from Cape Royal Road to the North Kaibab Trailhead, is closed for the 2026 season due to damage from the 2025 Dragon Bravo Fire.
Know before you go
- Stick to the Point Imperial to Cape Royal Road segment — the trail beyond that point is closed this season.
- Expect steep, uneven, and narrow footing in places, with downed trees along parts of the route; sturdy shoes help.
- Most hikers walk out partway and turn around, or arrange a shuttle for a one-way 3-mile trip; the full out-and-back runs about 6 miles.
- The trail is exposed to sun, wind, and cold with no water source, and the North Rim has no potable water or services in 2026.
Best Time to Hike It
The trail is exposed to sun, wind, and cold with no water source, and the North Rim has no potable water or services in 2026 — plan accordingly regardless of which season you visit.
Trail Tips
- Expect steep, uneven, and narrow footing in places, with downed trees along parts of the route; sturdy shoes help.
- Most hikers walk out partway and turn around, or arrange a shuttle for a one-way 3-mile trip; the full out-and-back runs about 6 miles.
- Check current closure status before your trip, since conditions are still changing as repair work continues.
Current Access
Stick to the Point Imperial to Cape Royal Road segment — the western section, running from Cape Royal Road to the North Kaibab Trailhead, is closed for the 2026 season due to damage from the 2025 Dragon Bravo Fire.
What to Expect on Ken Patrick Trail
The Ken Patrick Trail traces the forested North Rim escarpment between Point Imperial and the North Kaibab Trailhead, and in 2026 only part of it is open to hikers. The 3-mile (one-way) eastern segment from Point Imperial to Cape Royal Road remains accessible, following the canyon rim through Douglas fir and aspen forest that's still recovering from past wildfires, with views opening up where the trees thin out.
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