Overnighters - Capes of the Canyon: theforrestbiome.com/grand-canyon-overnighters
Spine of the Kaibab is a high-elevation ride across the sprawling montane and subalpine forests and meadows of the Kaibab Plateau on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Starting at an Arizona Trailhead outside of Jacob Lake, bikepackers do a slow climb through thick aspen groves, old burn scars, robust pine forests, and through verdant meadows. Be on the lookout for deer, goshawks, and Kaibab squirrels. Ride to the Kaibab Plateau Point at 9200 feet before a quick descent to Demotte for a resupply and the option of overnight camping at its campground or a room at the Kaibab Lodge. Next, it's back up to the high point for a long and gradual descent through spruce and firs down to ponderosas amid exposed cliff faces. Pass by Big Springs Cabin Site to grab water from the gushing waterfall coming out of the mountain. Rent a cabin and stay for the night to enjoy the area (advanced reservations required). Finally, it's a big climb up beautiful Warm Springs Canyon back to 8000 feet where you finish your ride at Jacob Lake to close the loop. Reliable water can only be found at Jacob Lake, Big Springs, and Demotte. Plan to carry several liters at a time accordingly.
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- Location: Grand Canyon - North Rim, Arizona, USA
- Days to Ride: 1 - 3 Days
- Physical Difficulty: 4/10
- Technical Difficulty: 4/10
- Tire Size: Recommended: 2.1"-2.6"; Minimum Tire Size: 2.0"
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Seasons:
- Best: Late-May - Mid-October
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Surface Color Guide
- Purple = Improved Dirt Surface (2WD, Wider, Smoother, Better Maintained, Intact, Graded, etc.)
- Red = Rugged Dirt Surface (4WD, Doubletrack, Rough, Less Maintained, etc.)
- Blue = Vehicle Pavement
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Permits: None required.