Roaring Springs, Grand Canyon North Rim

The trip to the Grand Canyon National Park's north rim and its delightful Roaring Springs is an amazing 10 mile hike that most can do in one day. It is one of the best places to get to because the trail leads to other viewpoints enroute and other incredible wonders.

The fun part about hiking to Roaring Springs (Grand Canyon National Park) on the North Rim is that there are so many other attractions and things to experience a long the way. In fact, it is one of the most enticing destinations because the trail can either be hiked or ridden to, depending on one's feelings about mules.

The best way to get there is along the main north rim trail, which winds down steep hills to forested areas. It is best done from May to September, when the trail is fairly dry and the risk of accidents has virtually passed. It is a ten mile hike to the springs and back to the main car park, but it easily done in one day. Some people however prefer the pleasure of a mule ride, taking the weight off their feet.

The first stop enroute is the Coconino Overlook, where most stop to see views and grab some water. Then it switches back into twists and turns towards the Roaring Springs Canyon and through the Supai Tunnel. This stop is good not only for water, but its plentiful washrooms.

Finally, after leaving the tunnel behind, huge cliffs suddenly rise up in front. Trees now dominate the landscape and another rest spot, the Red Wall Bridge appears before the trail becomes more treacherous and hair raising. At this point most turn back, but brave souls continue along the cliff-cuddling route, past limestone formations, shale and incredible sandstone. After another five miles the final descent begins, with a quarter mile side track down a side trail to the fresh water and amenities of the Roaring Springs. In fact, as one discovers, the springs is in fact a huge waterfall that lands in a deep sandstone bowl before clambering downhill towards the Colorado River. It is no surprise that after flood waters subside, the springs live up to their name; the sound can be heard well before taking the side trail.