Ken Patrick Trail junction sign surrounded by golden autumn aspens in North Rim's Kaibab forest.
Day Hike

Ken Patrick Trailhead

A quiet North Rim trailhead, partly closed for 2026 after fire damage

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Grand Canyon interior, AZ

About

Ken Patrick Trailhead sits at the east end of the North Kaibab Trailhead parking lot on the North Rim, about 2 miles north of the historic lodge site on Highway 67. From here the Ken Patrick Trail runs east along the forested rim toward Point Imperial, sharing its first mile with the Uncle Jim Trail before splitting off. It's one of the least-traveled trails on an already quiet rim, winding through spruce-fir forest with occasional canyon views rather than the constant vistas you get on the paved rim walks.

Current status

  • The section between this trailhead and Cape Royal Road is closed for the 2026 season due to damage from the Dragon Bravo Fire.
  • The eastern 3 miles of the trail, from Point Imperial to Cape Royal Road, remain open and accessible from the other end.
  • No potable water is available at or along this trail.
  • The North Rim is day-use only in 2026, with no in-park overnight lodging.

Best Time to Visit

The North Rim is day-use only in 2026, with no in-park overnight lodging — plan a day trip around current seasonal road access.

Trail Tips

  • No potable water is available at or along this trail.
  • Winding through spruce-fir forest with occasional canyon views, this is a quieter alternative to the paved rim walks nearby.
  • Check current closure status before planning a hike from this trailhead specifically.

Current Status

The section between this trailhead and Cape Royal Road is closed for the 2026 season due to damage from the Dragon Bravo Fire. The eastern 3 miles of the trail, from Point Imperial to Cape Royal Road, remain open and accessible from the other end.

What to Expect at Ken Patrick Trailhead

Ken Patrick Trailhead sits at the east end of the North Kaibab Trailhead parking lot on the North Rim, about 2 miles north of the historic lodge site on Highway 67. From here the Ken Patrick Trail runs east along the forested rim toward Point Imperial, sharing its first mile with the Uncle Jim Trail before splitting off. It's one of the least-traveled trails on an already quiet rim.

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