North Rim - Capes of the Canyon

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Grand Canyon, AZ, US

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Route Overview

Forrest Radarian

Northern Arizona - Bikepacking and Adventure Riding

560 mi.

40,670 ft.

The North Rim Capes of the Canyon takes bikepackers from the desert base of Vermilion Cliffs National Monument to the subalpine meadows and sprawling aspen forests of the Kaibab Plateau. In-between, it weaves a circumference dirt tour of North Rim viewpoints along the edge of Grand Canyon National Park. Full Route Guide: https://www.theforrestbiome.com/capes-of-the-canyon-northrim

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Route Details

# Detailed Route Guides
- [Capes of the Canyon - Overview](https://www.theforrestbiome.com/capes-of-the-canyon)
- [North Rim Capes - Full Route Guide](https://www.theforrestbiome.com/capes-of-the-canyon-northrim)
- [North Rim Passages](https://www.theforrestbiome.com/capes-of-the-canyon-northrim-passages)

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# Route Overview

The North Rim Capes of the Canyon takes bikepackers from the desert base of @poi[Vermilion Cliffs National Monument](128545033) to the subalpine meadows and sprawling aspen forests of the Kaibab Plateau. In-between, it weaves a circumference dirt tour of North Rim viewpoints along the edge of Grand Canyon National Park.  Capes include @poi[Vermilion Cliffs](128545032), @poi[Gunsight](128545055), @poi[Jumpup](128545076), @poi[Sowats](128545084), @poi[Thunder River](128545089), @poi[Crazy Jug](128545092), @poi[Monument](128545093), @poi[Parissawampitts](128545098), @poi[Fence](128545099), @poi[Locust](128545100), @poi[North Timp](128545101), @poi[Timp](128545102), @poi[Fire](128545116), @poi[Swamp](128545121), @poi[Point Sublime](128545126), @poi[Crystal Canyon](128658307), @poi[Bright Angel](128545146), @poi[Point Imperial](128545147), @poi[Vista Encantada](128545149), @poi[Roosevelt](128545150), @poi[Walhalla Overlook](128545152), @poi[Angel's Window](128545155), @poi[Cape Royal](128545156), @poi[Nankoweap/Saddle Mountain](128545161), @poi[Marble Viewpoint](128545163), @poi[East Rim](128545166), and @poi[Dog](128545170).  Look forward to multiple views of the Esplanade along the Kanab Creek Wilderness, the possibility of sleeping in old Forest Service cabins at @poi[Jumpup](128545071) and @poi[Big Springs](128545067), riding through Coyote Valley beside the Paria Plateau, seeing high-altitude meadows cupped by conifers, and absorbing views of the Grand Canyon along remote dirt roads.

The goal of the route is to hit every bike-legal track that takes riders to views of the Grand Canyon along the North Rim on the Kaibab Plateau.  Capes of the Canyon provides an additional tour of the Colorado Plateau by way of an extensive network of forest service roads that wind through ponderosas, spruce, firs, aspen, sage, tablelands, and plateaus in and near the Baaj Nwaavjo I'tah Kukveni National Monument and the Kaibab National Forest.  This route offers remote high-country riding down seldom-visited roads, a chance to bike singletrack along the Grand Canyon at @poi[Rainbow Rim](128545098), multiple opportunities for dispersed camping at the rim edge, sections of the Arizona Trail, and, for those who store their bike on top, the chance to hike down into the inner gorge at notable trailheads within Grand Canyon National Park.

## Route Highlights
- Ride every bike-legal track that takes bikepackers to views of the Grand Canyon along the North Rim on the Kaibab Plateau.
- Included Viewpoints: Vermilion Cliffs, Gunsight, Jumpup, Sowats, Thunder River, Crazy Jug, Monument, Parissawampitts, Fence, Locust, North Timp, Timp, Fire, Swamp, Point Sublime, Crystal Canyon, Bright Angel, Point Imperial, Vista Encantada, Roosevelt, Walhalla Overlook, Angel’s Window, Cape Royal, Nankoweap/Saddle Mountain, Marble Viewpoint, East Rim, and Dog
- Multiple views of the Esplanade along the Kanab Creek Wilderness
- Sleep in old Forest Service cabins at Jumpup and Big Springs
- Ride through Coyote Valley beside the Paria Plateau
- Commanding views from Jacob Lake, Big Springs, Kanabownitz, and North Rim Lookout Towers
- Bike singletrack along the Grand Canyon at Rainbow Rim
- Dispersed camping at the rim edge
- See high-altitude meadows cupped by conifers
- Opportunities to hike into the Grand Canyon at remote trailheads (if you store your bike on top)
## 
## Recommended Tire Size: 2.3"-2.8"

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# Riding Seasons:
* **BEST TIME:** May 15* - June
* **BEST TIME:** September - Mid-October
* **Less Suggested:** July - August
* **Not Possible:** Late October - Early May
## 
**Bicycles are prohibited on North Rim Grand Canyon NP roads from Dec. 1 until May 15.  You can start the route prior to May 15 as it's 350 miles before you'll reach the Park boundary, but be sure not to enter the roads of Grand Canyon NP before that date.*

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# Surface Color Guide
- **Purple** = Improved Dirt Surface (Frequently Maintained, Usually Smoother)
- **Red** = Rugged Dirt Surface (Infrequently Maintained, Typically Rougher/Rockier)
- **Brown** = Primitive Dirt Surface (Rarely/Never Maintained, Particularly Rocky/Rutted/Eroded)
- **Black** = Singletrack
- **Blue** = Vehicular Pavement
- **Green** = Dirt Multi-Use Path

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# Surface Conditions and Route Difficulty

- **Physical Difficulty = 7/10*** *(Very rugged terrain with abundant climbing, some of which is very steep and unrideable)*
- **Technical Difficulty = 6/10*** *(Continuous sections of track may be rocky, loose, and steep; (e.g., 4×4 roads or singletrack in rugged/rocky terrain) suitable for intermediate mountain bikers)*
- **Based on Bikepacking Roots' Rating Scales*
## 
The North Rim COTC travels down a trove of Forest Service roads and old doubletrack.  Some of the Forest Service roads are regularly maintained, wide, lightly graveled, and sometimes hero dirt.  The spurs off of these carry riders down smooth-to-chunky-to-decayed doubletrack - especially out to the most remote capes of the route where vehicles infrequently travel.  The dirt roads in Grand Canyon National Park are especially poorly maintained.  I've been told the USFS puts spending priority on their unpaved roads while the NPS does not.  Overall, there can be extended sections of washboard, ruts, and chunk with ample babyheads.  Some of the viewpoints that the North Rim Capes utilizes are very remote and are often littered with tree blowdowns come early summer.  The deadfall will get removed, but anyone traveling in the early season may have to go around/over trees until agencies clear them.

If any rain/snow is forecast, most of the unpaved route will become peanut butter/death mud and impassable in places.  Leave No Trace and avoid riding at these times until the route dries out.  In addition, flash flooding from precipitation is a real possibility in the lower portions of the route around the Vermilion Cliffs and House Rock Valley - stay safe and stay out of washes or low areas at those times.

The **technical difficulty** of the route is due to the abundant spread of surfaces that range from pavement, to smooth dirt, to chunky doubletrack.  There  are stretches with several miles of rugged and rocky tread.  There are also miles of gorgeous wide dirt roads coursing through the woods or across plateaus.  More on notable rocky sections can be found under "Surface Conditions" below.

The **physical difficulty** is mostly due to the climbing.  Make no doubt, this route is hilly and can be steep.  The North Rim Capes travels across the mountainous folds of the Kaibab Plateau; riders should expect rolling terrain that frequently ascends and descends ridges and canyons.  The route ascends to the @poi[Kaibab High Point at 9200 feet](128545107) from a low point in @poi[Fredonia at 4600 feet](128545046).  Although the route is gradual on average, there are some sections featuring steep grades.  ***And most salient, almost every cape has to be reached by traveling one-way down a dirt road that invariably descends several hundred to a thousand+ feet.  This means that you must immediately turn around and climb back up to rejoin the route's loop.***  You will think about this each time you head to a cape.  But take succor in knowing that those views of the Grand Canyon are well worth it.

## Noteworthy Climbs
1. @slice[Climbing up into the Buckskin Mountains](d,72619.2,83165.3) from House Rock Valley Road
2. @slice[Ascending up Warm Springs Canyon](d,233112.5,247530.2) to Jacob Lake
3. @slice[Climbing to FR 427](d,359484.1,372950.5) after Jumpup Cabin
4. @slice[Heading up to Demotte](d,496021.7,534945.8) from the end of Rainbow Rim

## 
## Noteworthy Primitive, Rocky Surfaces
1. @slice[The climb up into the Buckskin Mountains](d,74710.2,76597.5) from House Rock Valley Road
2. The last portion of the @slice[ride out to Jumpup Point](d,186003.4,198575.2)
3. @slice[Climbing up FR 272](d,453287.5,454883.6) from the base of Crazy Jug over to Rainbow Rim is short but steep and rocky requiring some hike-a-bike
4. @slice[FR 206](d,502917.7,504011.5) down to Quaking Aspen Spring
5. @slice[The road out to Swamp Point](d,557814.1,581599.9) (especially after monsoons)
6. @slice[The entire road between Point Sublime and the Widforss Trailhead.](d,642962.6,660016.5)  This can be quite awful with washouts, erosion, steep babyhead sections, hike-a-bikes, and chunk.  
## 
## Noteworthy Vehicular Pavement
1. @slice[Kaibab Descent to Vermilion Cliffs](d,14182.4,32196.4): Has little shoulder and high speeds on the road, but traffic can be light - especially in the morning. There are good lines-of-sights for both cyclists and drivers.
2. @slice[Paved FR 22 between Fredonia and Warm Springs Canyon](d,134193.1,166403.1): Has very little traffic. There are good lines-of-sights for both cyclists and drivers.  This is a rural, quiet backroad.  
3. @slice[Riding to Cape Royal and Point Imperial in Grand Canyon National Park](d,669242,741713.5): This is windy, twisty, and has poor lines-of-sight on the curves.  Plus, there can heavy traffic on it, especially in the afternoons.   If you choose to ride this portion make sure to ride defensively, wear bright colors, and use flashing lights.  I also recommend riding early in the morning when traffic is less.  As a heads up, GCNP does not recommend bicyclists on this stretch of road (but it is legal to ride and definitely is ridden).  
# 
## Parking

The route is intended to be ridden in a counterclockwise direction. The @poi[Arizona Trail: Murray Lake Trailhead](128545029) is the official start and end for the North Rim Capes of the Canyon.  This location has a pit toilet and informational sign on the AZT.  This trailhead is about 0.25 miles down an unpaved 2WD-accessible road from paved Highway 67.

There are two parking options if you are looking to leave a vehicle for the duration of your ride.

- **@poi[PARKING OPTION 1: AZT MURRAY LAKE TRAILHEAD](128545029)**: The [Arizona Trail Murray Lake Trailhead](https://maps.app.goo.gl/mDAXZhmyJ3Sxtd1j8) contains several parking spots for long-term parking. Parking is not visible from the highway due to the woods which will keep your car better out-of-sight from the main drive.  There are also many spots further along the dirt road past the TH where you can park your car in the forest if you want/need to.  I like to contact the USFS to let them know I'll be parking for a while at a trailhead; they won't promise anything, but it's good peace-of-mind in case of an issue. If you want to do the same, reach out to the [North Kaibab Ranger District](https://www.fs.usda.gov/contactus/kaibab/about-forest/contactus).

- **@poi[PARKING OPTION 2: JACOB LAKE INN](128545059)**: [Jacob Lake Inn](https://jacoblake.com/) (which you passed on your way to the start) has graciously agreed to allow bikepackers to [park vehicles on their property](https://maps.app.goo.gl/69En5hKUS7kag2EK6).  There is no fee to park, and you are able to leave your vehicle at Jacob Lake Inn for however long you need; you’ll just need to provide the date you plan to finish and pick your vehicle back up.  Reach out before your trip to confirm parking will be available (**928-643-7232, jacob@jacoblake.com**).  When you arrive, head to the front desk to fill out a slip with your vehicle information and signature.  Have your intended finish-date ready.  After signing, the front desk clerk will let you know where to park your vehicle.  If you are part of a group bringing more than 10 vehicles, you will need to let them know at least 4 days in advance so they can confirm with their managers.  Give them big thanks for this opportunity!  If you plan to leave your car at Jacob Lake Inn, expect to add about 6.7 miles of additional riding to both the start and end of the route (plus 650 feet of gain to begin and 650 feet of loss to finish).  Ride the shoulder of HWY 67 to connect Jacob Lake Inn and the Arizona Trail Murray Lake Trailhead.

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# Water and Food

## Water Reliability Scale
- 1 = unreliable
- 2 = seasonal;
- 3 = mostly reliable;
- 4 = definite source
## 
Water is scarce along this route. The Kaibab National Forest is considered the driest national forest in the United States. Although the North Rim is higher than the South Rim and consequently receives an average of 25.8 inches of moisture a year, most quickly percolates through the porous rock of Kaibab Limestone that makes up the upper layers of this area.  Within the canyon, water exits through numerous springs, but up on top, it's a relatively dry area.  Springs may require you to stash your bike on the rim to hike down and retrieve water.  The tablelands and canyonlands around the Vermilion Cliffs, House Rock Valley, and Buckskin Mountain are true desertscapes with little reliable surface runoff or pools.  Plan to carry several liters of water, sometimes enough to last at least 24 hours and more than you think you'll need should you arrive at a source and find it dry.

Definite water can be found at @poi[Fredonia](128545045), @poi[Jacob Lake](128545059), @poi[Big Springs](128545067), @poi[Demotte](128545110), and the @poi[North Rim Village](128545137) area in GCNP.  Beyond that, water is mostly found in dirt cattle tanks, metal cattle tanks, springs, and Arizona Game and Fish Water Catchments (Wildlife Tanks).  Wildlife tanks can be chock full of bugs and algae in the summer, but are safe to drink with treatment/purification.  AZGFD Wildlife Tanks help provide water to wildlife in the ever-drying environment of the southwest under climate change.  There is no camping within 0.25 miles of AZGFD Wildlife Tanks (or other water sources).  This route requires riders to dry camp.  Be prepared to load up at water sources so that you can camp far away from them.

There are several food resupplies on this route.  However, they are greatly spaced.  The distance between Jacob Lake and Demotte alone is 192 route-miles.  The remote nature of this route means riders need to carefully plan how much food to carry and to expect several days between resupplies.  Food can be found at @poi[Fredonia](128545045), @poi[Jacob Lake](128545059), @poi[Demotte](128545110), and @poi[North Rim Village](128545137).

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# Fees and Permits
- Grand Canyon National Park [requires a fee for entry](https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/fees.htm). No cash, credit/debit only. ($35 for a vehicle; $20 for a bicycle).
- Baaj Nwaavjo I'tah Kukveni National Monument, Kaibab National Forest, Vermillion Cliffs National Monument, and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument have no fees.
- A [Recreational Land Use Permit](https://land.az.gov/applications-permits) is required for any travel or camping on Arizona State Lands. Apply for and pay for one before you head out on the route. Carry it with you.

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# Important Information

**Hunting Season:** Starts in September and goes through December.  The Kaibab National Forest on the North Rim is considered one of the best mule deer hunting areas in the United States.  Hunting season is a big deal here and the forest will be filled with hunters looking for deer and bison.  Expect to see more trucks, backcountry campers, ATVs, and individuals on foot.  WEAR ORANGE and make yourself visible as you ride.  Be smart and be seen during hunting season.  Wildlife Tanks may have more hunters scoping them out.

**Black Bears:** There are black bears which means you need to properly store your food at night using a bear-aware method.

**ATVs:** ATVs frequently use House Rock Valley Road/BLM 1065.  Expect mild intermittent washboard along sections of the road and some dust from passing vehicles.  Outside of here, ATVs are much more rare across the Kaibab Plateau, although you will see them.  However, I have found drivers are pretty respectful, will check on you/offer you water, and give you space when passing.

**Dark Skies:** Grand Canyon National Park is an International Dark Sky Park.  This means that you can expect to have anywhere between Bortle Class 1 - 3 night skies overhead (even better night viewing during a new moon).  The Bortle Class Scale is used to rate night skies on their clarity and lack of light pollution.  A Bortle Class 1 is the darkest possible and there are several locations along these routes where, should you camp, you will have this level of darkness.  Here, night skies will be virtually unimpeded by artificial light.

**Bugs:** Mosquitoes and biting flies can be abundant on this route in the forest valleys and drainages where moisture and standing water collect.  This will be especially true in the summer and early fall, especially if precipitation has been plentiful.

**Fences:** There may be "cowboy fences" on this route which consist of barbed wire wrapped around vertical wooden branches that are strung across roads.  They can be opened by removing a loop of wire on one side.  Most importantly, leave fences as you found them; re-close them if they were closed.

**Hantavirus and Plague:** Bubonic plague and hantavirus are frequent enough amongst the rodent population that you should avoid their saliva, feces, urine, and direct bodily contact.  Be careful when entering old cabins and caves where droppings are plentiful and ventilation is limited.  These are prime areas for possible contraction of these diseases.

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# North Rim Capes Specific Bike Access
When traveling out to Jumpup and Sowats Point, make sure to stay on established roads/the route and not to stray into the Kanab Creek Wilderness which will come right up to the road in places.  Bikes are not allowed in Wilderness Areas.

No riding singletrack or trails above the rim in Grand Canyon National Park except for the @poi[Arizona Trail](128545129).  You are allowed to cycle on any established dirt roads.

***Why May 15th, specifically?*** Bicycles are prohibited on North Rim Grand Canyon National Park roads from Dec. 1 until May 15.  You can start the route prior to May 15 as it's 350 miles before you'll reach the Park boundary, but be sure not to enter the roads of Grand Canyon NP before that date.  No backcountry permits for overnight camping will be issued prior to May 15.

# General Access
Bikes are STRICTLY forbidden below the rim in the inner gorge of the Grand Canyon. DO NOT RIDE YOUR BIKE DOWN INTO THE CANYON - you will get fined, it is illegal, and you will hurt the perception and opportunities of other bikepackers on this route. There are certain trails on top that are also off-limits to bikes; this route expressly avoids them. No cross-country travel in Grand Canyon National Park; practicing Leave No Trace means staying on established trails, roads, and paths.

Bicycles are prohibited on all Grand Canyon National Park North Rim backcountry roads from December 1 until May 15.  No backcountry permits will be issued prior to May 15 for campsites.  If starting in the early season, time arrival at the Park boundary to be right on May 15.  The Kaibab National Forest permits bicycle travel outside these dates.

Finally, respect tribal land and do not ride without permission in either the lands of the Kaibab Band of Paiute Indians just outside of Fredonia or the Navajo Nation just across the Colorado River at Marble Canyon. This route stays explicitly within land domains where riding is public and legal. Although it may approach boundaries with the surrounding tribal nations, you should never ride onto the reservations without securing tribal government permission. Doing so otherwise is disrespectful and unlawful. I must note that although this route stays on "public lands," the formation of Grand Canyon National Park involved the forced removal of tribes such as the Havasupai, and they have endured legal battles to keep their vastly smaller chunk of land out of their historical precedent. **Know the land you are riding on is traditionally theirs, know their current reservation boundaries are smaller than where they historically inhabited, and know where you are riding to keep yourself both legal and respectful.**

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# Camping
There is no dispersed camping within the boundaries of Grand Canyon National Park.  However, there is an established camping site at the @poi[North Rim Campground](128545139).  The North Rim Campground near the village has a fantastic hiker/biker site for walk-ups arriving by foot or bicycle.  The hiker/biker site is shared with other cyclists and backpackers and costs $6 per night per person.  The North Rim Campground is conveniently located next to the @poi[North Rim General Store](128545137) and is only a short ride away from the lodging, restaurants, and @poi[Post Office](128545140) (M-F, May 15 - October 15, 8:00 am - 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm) in the village.

If you want to stay at the backcountry campsites above the rim at @poi[Fire Point](128545116), @poi[Swamp Point](128545121), or @poi[Point Sublime](128545126), you will need to reserve backcountry permits through the @poi[GCNP Backcountry Information Center](128545135) or online at [Recreation.gov](https://www.recreation.gov/permits/4675337).  No backcountry permits will be issued prior to May 15 for campsites.  Here are the steps to take to reserve these sites:
1. Head to [Recreation.gov](https://www.recreation.gov/permits/4675337) for Grand Canyon National Park Backcountry Permits.  
2. Click "Check Availability" under Available Permits on the right hand side.
3. Choose the button tab "Above Rim Areas - North Rim" at the top.
4. Choose from the following options:
	- NJ1 - Fire Point Campsite - Large or Small Group
	- NJ2 - Swamp Point - Campsite - Large or Small Group
	- NH1 - Point Sublime - Campsite
5. If it's less than 30 days until your planned date to camp here, and the "1-6 people" permit is already taken, you are allowed to choose the "LARGE GROUP" option if it's still available.
# 
If you want to backcountry camp anywhere else above the Rim in Grand Canyon National Park, you'll need to navigate to the same link above and make sure to choose the proper Use Area.  This [Use Area Map](https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/upload/useAreaMap.pdf) will help you determine which zone is appropriate for your intended backcountry campsite.

Outside of GCNP in the the Baaj Nwaavjo I'tah Kukveni National Monument, Kaibab National Forest, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, and House Rock Valley, excellent and numerous dispersed camping abounds.  The North Rim is truly one of the most remarkable places for dispersed camping right up against the edge of the Canyon at numerous locations for those making the remote trek out.  Just make sure to pay attention to boundary lines between Grand Canyon National Park and the Kaibab National Forest.

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# Sample Route Itinerary
## 
This is a suggested itinerary. Use it as a rough guide for your own planning purposes. Feel free to use it, adapt it, or don't use it at all and make your own plans. Plan your trip on this route based on your own strengths, comfortabilities, experiences, wants, and needs.

**Day 1**

- **Mileage:** 40 Miles
- **Elevation Gain:** 1000 ft.
- **Description:** Park your car for the duration of the ride at the @poi[Murray Lake Trailhead for the Arizona Trail](128545029).  Start by riding through ponderosa woodlands along dirt roads.  Turn onto paved @poi[Highway 89A](128545031) where, if you begin your day early, you can avoid heavy traffic on the descent off the Kaibab Plateau.  You'll hit a stunning viewpoint at @poi[Cape 1: Vermilion Cliffs](128545032).  Continue to the bottom and turn left onto unpaved House Rock Valley Road that takes you along the face of @poi[Vermilion Cliffs National Monument](128545033).  Stop at the @poi[California Condor viewing site](128545034).  Beyond camp, take an opportunity to hike down @poi[Wire Pass](128545047) and even The Wave if you have permits. 
- **Water:** There is no reliable water today, so carry everything you need to get you through tomorrow.
- **Resupply**: None
- **Camping:** @poi[Stateline Campground](128545038); Dispersed camping at a few pullouts further down the road
#
**Day 2**

- **Mileage:** 50 Miles
- **Elevation Gain:** 3100 ft.
- **Description:** Continue riding up House Rock Valley Road into Utah by entering the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.  @poi[Climb up into the Buckskin Mountains](135520309) and take dirt roads to the small high desert town of @poi[Fredonia, AZ](128545045).  The ridgeline today affords multiple viewing opportunities of the Grand Staircase and its tiered colored-cliffs. 
- **Water:** @poi[Wildlife Tank](128545036) just past Wire Pass parking area; @poi[Wildlife Tanks](128545041) up in the Buckskin Mountains; @poi[Fredonia](128545045)
- **Resupply**: @poi[Family Dollar](128545045) or @poi[Chevron Gas Station](128545044) in Fredonia.
- **Camping:** @poi[Country Rose RV Park](128545046) in Fredonia, AZ
#
**Day 3**

- **Mileage:** 65 Miles
- **Elevation Gain:** 4900 ft.
- **Description:** Leave Fredonia heading south on paved @poi[FR 22](134425880).  Turn right onto dirt BLM 164 to @poi[Cape 2: Gunsight Point](128545055).  Return, hit pavement, and continue south before a large dirt climb up geologically beautiful Warm Springs Canyon to @poi[Jacob Lake](128545059).  You'll be up in the cooler pines at 8000 feet. 
- **Water:** @poi[Water Tank](128545053) out at Gunsight Point; @poi[Jacob Lake](128545059)
- **Resupply**: @poi[Jacob Lake Inn](128545059) has a restaurant and small convenience store.
- **Camping:** @poi[Jacob Lake Campground](128545060); @poi[Kaibab Camper Village](128545057); @poi[Jacob Lake Inn](128545059); Dispersed camping in the woods nearby
#
**Optional: Zero Day**

- **Mileage:** 0 Miles
- **Elevation Gain:** 0 ft.
- **Description:** Take an optional 0 day at @poi[Jacob Lake](128545059).  Rest your legs, grab a shower, eat lots of food, enjoy the area, and resupply.  This is your last resupply for a big stretch of 192 miles.  
#
**Day 4**

- **Mileage:** 34 Miles
- **OPTIONAL:** *Combine Days 4 and 5 into one big day out to Jumpup Point.*
- **Elevation Gain:** 1900 ft.
- **Description:** Eat a big breakfast at @poi[Jacob Lake](128545059), and then head out into the pines.  Make sure to take lots of supplies with you as it's 192 miles to @poi[Demotte](128545110).  Ride through the pines along the ridgeline of the Kaibab Plateau.  Look out at young aspen growing in a burn scar.  Find yourself thick in the montane and subalpine woodlands.  Ride out to @poi[Big Springs Lookout Tower](128545063) and then descend Castle Canyon (check out its @poi[spring in the cave](128545065)) before jumping on FR 22 to ride down to @poi[Big Springs](128545067).  
- **Water:** @poi[Castle Spring](128545065); @poi[Big Springs](128545067)
- **Resupply**: None
- **Camping:** [Reserve a cabin at Big Springs](https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/121740) ahead of time; @poi[Dispersed camping](128545064) at the intersection of FR 429 and FR 22
#
**Day 5**

- **Mileage:** 30 Miles
- **OPTIONAL:** *Combine Days 4 and 5 into one big day out to Jumpup Point.*
- **Elevation Gain:** 1450 ft.
- **Description:** Head out from @poi[Big Springs](128545067) for a very remote ride out to @poi[Cape 3: Jumpup Point](128545076).  It's likely to get very hot out there, but there is shade to be found among pinyon-juniper stands including a few trees at the viewpoint.  Head down Nail Canyon from Big Springs where several petroglyph viewing sites are found among the gorgeous cliffs.  Weave through grasslands set in a bowl of land where the route climbs to the Jumpup Divide before heading out to the point. 
- **Water:** @poi[Wildlife Tank](128545075) near Jumpup Point
- **Resupply**: None
- **Camping:** @poi[Dispersed camping](128545076) at Jumpup Point; Consider biking an additional 14 miles to reach @poi[Jumpup Cabin](128545071) if you reserve it
#
**Day 6**

- **Mileage:** 59 Miles
- **Elevation Gain:** 4700 ft.
- **Description:** Ride back from Jumpup Point down to historic @poi[Jumpup Cabin](128545071) before climbing up to FR 427.  Enjoy smooth singletrack that mingles between woodlands and grassy mountain flanks.  Descend on an out-and-back to @poi[Cape 4: Sowats Point](128545084).  Head down FR 232 to @poi[Indian Hollow Campground](128545087).  Setup camp and then head down the road a little further to @poi[Cape 5: Thunder River](128545089).
- **Water:** You'll hit several Wildlife Tanks today.  @poi[The best](128545082) is towards the start of the road out to Sowats Point.  Grab that water on the way back after riding out to the viewpoint.  Aim to get a LOT from this one and/or @poi[the next one](128545086) over on the road to Thunder River/Indian Hollow Campground.  Either way, these are the last surely reliable sources until Demotte.  Carry extra just in case @poi[Parissawampitts](128545096) and @poi[Quaking Aspen Springs](128545104) are dry.
- **Resupply**: None
- **Camping:** @poi[Indian Hollow Campground](128545087) near Thunder River Trailhead
#
**Day 7**

- **Mileage:** 34 Miles
- **Elevation Gain:** 3900 ft.
- **Description:** Climb up to FR 425 and head down the road to check out an @poi[old cabin](128545090).  Then, ascend up to @poi[Cape 6: Crazy Jug](128545092).  Enjoy the view for a while before biking down the road to @poi[Cape 7: Monument Point](128545093).  Hike out on the @poi[Bill Hall Trail](128545094) and take in the sweeping views of Rainbow Rim.  Return the way you came and head out on FR 272 which can require a short @poi[hike-a-bike at the start](128545091).  Grab water at @poi[Parissawampitts Spring](128545096) if you need it, or skip the side-ride if you don't.  Head downhill to the North Rim's famous singletrack: @poi[Rainbow Rim](128545098).  This will be an 18 mile singletrack ride that can be both chunky and smooth as it careens through aspens, pines, and out to the rim.  Ride part of it today by hitting up @poi[Cape 8: Parissawampitts Point](128545098), @poi[Cape 9: Fence Point](128545099), and @poi[Cape 10: Locust Point](128545101).  Camp rim-side at Locust Point for the night. 
- **Water:** @poi[Wildlife Tank](128545086) by Indian Hollow Campground; @poi[Parissawampitts Spring](128545096) (seasonal flow)
- **Resupply**: None
- **Camping:** @poi[Dispersed camping](128545101) at Locust Point 
#
**Day 8**

- **Mileage:** 36 Miles
- **Elevation Gain:** 3000 ft.
- **Description:** Finish the rest of the Rainbow Rim singletrack by riding out to @poi[Cape 11: North Timp Point](128545101) and @poi[Cape 12: Timp Point](128545102).  Start a large climb towards Demotte Campground.  Do a descent to Quaking Aspen Canyon and its @poi[spring](128545104).  Ride through thick groves of aspen before weaving up and through the meadows of Dry Park with a stop at @poi[Dry Park Lookout Tower](128545106).  Then begin the big climb to the high point of the route at 9200 feet.  Descend down an awesome dirt road past @poi[Deer Lake](128545109) to the subalpine meadows of @poi[Demotte](128545110).
- **Water:** @poi[Quaking Aspen Spring](128545104) (seasonal flow); @poi[Demotte Campground](128545113); @poi[North Rim Country Store](128545110)
- **Resupply**: @poi[North Rim Country Store](128545110) or @poi[Kaibab Lodge](128545111) at Demotte
- **Camping:** @poi[Demotte Campground](128545113); @poi[Kaibab Lodge](128545111); @poi[Dispersed camping](128545108) in the woods up FR 22 
#
**Optional: Zero Day**

- **Mileage:** 0 Miles
- **Elevation Gain:** 0 ft.
- **Description:** Take an optional 0 day in @poi[Demotte](128545110).  Rest your legs, grab a shower if you're staying at the lodge, eat lots of food, enjoy the area, and resupply before heading to Grand Canyon National Park.
#
**Day 9**

- **Mileage:** 59 Miles
- **Elevation Gain:** 3950 ft.
- **Description:** Leave Demotte by climbing to the @poi[Kaibab Plateau high point at 9200 ft](128545107).  Start a descent down remote smooth doubletrack to @poi[Cape 13: Fire Point](128545116) in Grand Canyon National Park.  Backtrack and @poi[reenter the Park](128545117) once more on your way out on chunky doubletrack to @poi[Cape 14: Swamp Point](128545121).  Retrace and start your way down little-maintained roads past @poi[Kanabownitz Lookout Tower](128545122) to spectacular @poi[Cape 15: Point Sublime](128545126).  
- **Water:** @poi[Kanabownits Spring](128545124) (often dry but can have a seasonal flow);  @poi[Tipover Spring](128545120) (seasonal flow) is very difficult to find and includes a bushwhack - don't rely on it; Carry lots of water out of Demotte to get you through tomorrow as a precaution.
- **Resupply**: None.
- **Camping:** @poi[Point Sublime](128545126) - backcountry permit required.  Backup Campsites: @poi[Swamp Point](128545121) or @poi[Fire Point](128545116) - backcountry permits required (or @poi[dispersed camping](128545115) right before Fire Point at a great spot in the National Forest)
#
**Day 10**

- **Mileage:** 22 Miles
- **Elevation Gain:** 2600 ft.
- **Description:** Today's ride is along the dirt road between @poi[Point Sublime](128545126) and the @poi[Widforss Trailhead](128545131).  It is rutted, little-maintained, steep in intervals, and @poi[very rocky](128545125).  Expect slow-going at times.  The views of aspens and a view from @poi[Cape 16: Crystal Canyon](128658307) will make it worth it.  Plus, there is a big ride across @poi[the Basin](128545128) - a massive meadow lined with spruce where bison frequent.  Hit up the @poi[North Kaibab Trailhead](128545132) for @poi[water](128545133), then take the @poi[Bridle Trail](128545134) to the @poi[North Rim Village](128545141).  Make the short hike out to @poi[Cape 17: Bright Angel Point](128545146) at sunset for an incredible evening.
- **Water:** @poi[North Kaibab Trailhead](128545133) (faucet on Mid-May - Mid-October); @poi[North Rim Campground](128545138); @poi[North Rim Village](128545142)
- **Resupply**: @poi[North Rim General Store](128545137)
- **Camping:** Hiker/Biker site at the @poi[North Rim Campground](128545139)
#
**Day 11**

- **Mileage:** 48 Miles
- **Elevation Gain:** 4100 ft.
- **Description:** Today is all on pavement.  Leave a bunch of gear at your Hiker/Biker site in the North Rim Campground to make your rig lighter as you'll be doing an out-and-back.  @poi[The pavement can be BUSY with vehicles](128545130) (especially in the afternoon) - only do it if you're comfortable, and make sure to wear bright colors and flashing rear lights.  Ride out to the highest viewpoint in Grand Canyon National Park at @poi[Cape 18: Point Imperial](128545147).  Then ride and check out @poi[Greenland Lake and its historic cabin](128545148).  Continue riding and stop along the road at @poi[Cape 19: Vista Encantada](128545149), @poi[Cape 20: Roosevelt Point](128545150), @poi[Cape 21: Walhalla Overlook](128545152), @poi[Cape 22: Angel's Window](128545155), and @poi[Cape 23: Cape Royal](128545156).  Then it's back to the @poi[North Rim Campground](128545139) again. 
- **Water:** Carry all the water you'll need for today on this out-and-back.
- **Resupply**: @poi[North Rim General Store](128545137)
- **Camping:** Hiker/Biker site at the @poi[North Rim Campground](128545139)
#
**Optional: Zero Day**

- **Mileage:** 0 Miles
- **Elevation Gain:** 0 ft.
- **Description:** Take an optional 0 day at the hiker/biker site in the @poi[North Rim Campground](128545139).  Rest your legs, grab a shower, do some laundry, eat lots of food, enjoy the area, and enjoy sitting in the chairs out back of the @poi[North Rim Lodge](128545141) overlooking the Grand Canyon.  If your legs feel up to it, head to the @poi[North Kaibab Trailhead](128545132) and take a day hike down the North Kaibab Trail - bring water, snacks, and know your limits (down is optional, up is mandatory!).
#
**Day 12**

- **Mileage:** 50.5 Miles
- **Elevation Gain:** 3900 ft.
- **Description:** Take the Bridle Trail out of the North Rim Village back towards the AZT.  @poi[Ride AZT singletrack](128545129) up along ridges and across vast subalpine meadows.  Join the smooth dirt surfaces of FR 610 out to @poi[Cape 24: Nankoweap/Saddle Mountain](128545161).  Retrace your route and head out to @poi[Cape 25: Marble Viewpoint](128545163).  Retrace your route to join more AZT singletrack to head north across subalpine meadows to @poi[Cape 26: East Rim Viewpoint](128545166) before jumping on forest service roads to head to @poi[Demotte](128545110).
- **Water:** @poi[Blue water jug](128545157) at the North Rim Entrance Station for AZTers; @poi[Marble Sinkhole](128545162); @poi[Crystal Spring](128545165); @poi[Demotte Campground](128545112); @poi[North Rim Country Store](128545110)
- **Resupply**: @poi[North Rim Country Store](128545110) or @poi[Kaibab Lodge](128545111) at Demotte
- **Camping:** @poi[Demotte Campground](128545113); @poi[Kaibab Lodge](128545111); @poi[Dispersed camping](128545169) in the woods up FR 22
#
**Day 13**

- **Mileage:** 39 Miles
- **Elevation Gain:** 2700 ft.
- **Description:** Leave Demotte with a climb up well-maintained dirt Dog Saddle Road.  Head out to the last cape on the route at @poi[Cape 27: Dog Point](128545170).  Turn around, retrace, and join some AZT singletrack to head across large subalpine meadows before joining dirt roads once more.  You'll cross the highway and join FR 641 that is a fantastic dirt road that rides the spine of the Kaibab Plateau at or near 9000 feet in elevation.  Work your way over for a short stint on Highway 67 before pulling into the @poi[Murray Lake Trailhead of the AZT](128545029) and the finish! 
- **Water:** @poi[Wildlife Tank](128545030) near the finish; Plan to carry most of the water you'll need today
- **Resupply**: None
- **Camping:** Finish!  @poi[Jacob Lake Campground](128545060); @poi[Kaibab Camper Village](128545057); @poi[Jacob Lake Inn](128545059); Dispersed camping in the woods nearby
------------------------------------------

# Shorter Route Options:
Looking for a shorter route, overnighter, or day ride on the Capes of the Canyon?  Check out the options below:
- [North Rim Passages](https://www.theforrestbiome.com/capes-of-the-canyon-northrim-passages)
- [Grand Canyon Overnighters](https://www.theforrestbiome.com/grand-canyon-overnighters)

North Rim - Capes of the Canyon

Route Overview

Route Details

Other routes by Forrest Radarian

South Rim - Capes of the Canyon

Gold to Grand Loop

House Rock Wrap

El Lobo Lupus

Vermilion Cliffs Overnighter

Point Sublime Overnighter

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