Which is better - Grand Canyon North or South Rim?

[agorski]

There's a really nice campground for your RV at the North Rim which you don't have to reserve a year in advance like the cabins.

[Steve Pickering]

Let me give you first hand advice.

My bonifides include 20 trips to and through the canyon. I hiked it from Rim to Rim (North to South) for my 40th birthday on August 19th, 20th, and 21st. My most recent trip (North and South rim) was two years ago. I am overweight (300 pounds), and 67 now.

My advice. Do both. Also about half way from the junction on the North side and the North Rim is a great free Campground with Pull through's. The North Rim is great as a full rim to rim starting point, but not so good for a day hike. Make hiking reservations in advance or risk a probability of being barred. You will see the least of the canyon from the north, but few crowds and fewer services. South rim has everything you could want and more. The South rim drive from Navajo Country is spectacular all the way to El Tovar. Park transportation from there to the West end of the park. I would be glad to answer any specific question, including specific RV Parking, Trains, and Mules.

[tsmw47]

Having been to both I would opt for the north rim. It is sooo beautiful and far less crowded. We loved the calm compared to the south rim where we had to out run tour buses so we could get to an overlook without 50 other people. Nice campground which we enjoyed and general store. Had an excellent dinner at the lodge watched the sun set and walked back to our campsite. Doesn't get much better than that IMO. Drive up from Flag pretty nice, stopped at Navajo Bridge and trip from Jacob Lake to entrance is like being in Montana. Ready to go again soon!

[wit-nit]

Both sides are good, just pick the one that you know you'll be spending the most time at. If you go to the north side then you may want to factor in Page, AZ, Zion Natl Park and Bryce Canyon in Utah, they're not that far apart and worth the trip.
Grand Canyon, Bryce, and Zion National Parks | National Geographic Expeditions

[Steve Pickering]

Originally Posted by wit-nit

Both sides are good, just pick the one that you know you'll be spending the most time at. If you go to the north side then you may want to factor in Page, AZ, Zion Natl Park and Bryce Canyon in Utah, they're not that far apart and worth the trip.
Grand Canyon, Bryce, and Zion National Parks | National Geographic Expeditions

Agree 100%

[azdr0710]

keep in mind that the only reason the South Rim became so developed and busy is that is/was close to the original 1800s-era transportation routes across the country

now read the above between the lines.....

each rim has its pros and cons....