North Rim Lookout and Back

North Rim Lookout and Back is a 3-mile out-and-back route from Highway 67 to the North Rim Fire Lookout. This short and easy route follows a winding dirt road trail  through a gentle forest along the North Rim of the Grand Canyon leading to a historic fire watchtower. This route features solitude, historic landmarks, and expansive views. 

The North Rim Fire Lookout is one of four fire lookouts located in Grand Canyon National Park and is listed on the National Historic Lookout Register. These towers were once part of an important fire mitigation efforts in the area and through the National Historic Lookout Register are recognized for playing an important role in forest conservation. These towers are no longer in use and provide visitors with a brief window into the past. 

The North Rim Fire Lookout was built in 1928. It is 75 feet tall and is famous for once being the home, and workstation, of author Edward Abbey

A portion of this route follows the Arizona National Scenic Trail, a long distance trail that extends from the Mexico-U.S. border all the way to Utah. 

Those who are brave enough to climb to the top of the tower will be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding area. 

For more information regarding the North Rim Lookout Tower and others check out the following websites:

• National Historic Lookout Register: http://www.nhlr.org/

• Forest Fire Lookout Association: http://www.firelookout.org/

• National Park Service Fire and Aviation Management: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/fire/index.htm

ROAD ACCESS
This trailhead is located along a road with seasonal closures. Normally, the road is open and accessible from May-October (depending on snow conditions). For more information about season road closures within Grand Canyon National Park visit: https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/roadclosures.htm