Grand Canyon National Park North Rim

Opening the North Rim 2013

Posted by Gaelyn Olmsted on May 14, 2013 Arizona, Grand Canyon National Park North Rim

May 142013

The North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park opens its gates May 15th by 8 am. I’d expect a line so please be patient, the canyon isn’t going anywhere.

All the employees of Forever Resort and the National Park Service have been cleaning, stocking, training and studying in preparation of your arrival.

If you plan to stay in the park, make reservations way ahead of time. That includes camping or staying in the Lodge cabins.

There are no bad views of the Grand Canyon. Opportunities include overlooks, a drive on the Scenic Road and hiking. Or just hang out at the Lodge. Food and cocktails are available or bring your own picnic.

Ranger programs happen daily. Learn more about the condors that fly over or the geology of the canyon.

Check out the North Rim Guide online. And stop in the Visitor Center for more information or to buy postcards, books or videos.

I’m ready. My boots are polished and my uniform is pressed.

What are you waiting for?

Returning to my Summer Grand Canyon home

Posted by Gaelyn Olmsted on April 27, 2013 Arizona, Grand Canyon National Park North Rim

Apr 272013

Arrived at my summer Grand Canyon home Wednesday afternoon. Returning to an old friend yet always with new eyes. I am so fortunate to live and work here for six months of the year.

The new to me truck pulled the 5th-wheel like a dream. Up over several mountain passes averaged 10-12/mpg. And when not towing 19/mpg. I’m a happy camper. Notice how the color matches RV accents.

Parked, leveled and ready for the summer season. Well, almost ready. Still have to dig out the official Park Ranger uniforms, dust off the iconic “flat top” hat, and spiff up a few programs.

Doesn’t quite feel like summer temperatures at 8200 feet. Yet there is very little snow left. Guess I’ll put away the summer dresses and pull out the sweaters. Snow will most likely fall again. Of course, nothing normal about weather.

I did notice some Mahoney blooming near the rim.

The North Rim doesn’t open to the public until May 15th, 2013. So over the next couple weeks we’ll be preparing for the crowds. It’s sort of like re-opening a small town every spring. Sure hope you’re planning to visit Grand Canyon. Stop by the North Rim visitor center and say hi. Or see you on a trail.

In the mean time, it’s really nice to enjoy the park’s peace and quiet. Life is good at my summer Grand Canyon home.

Snow at Grand Canyon

Posted by Gaelyn Olmsted on December 21, 2012 Grand Canyon National Park North Rim

Dec 212012

01 Snow above Roaring Springs & Bright Angel Canyons from Bright Angel Point trail NR GRCA NP AZ (1024x768)

Snow above Roaring Springs Canyon

Although I’m not at the canyon right now I’ve heard from a dear friend who is staying on the North Rim that there’s snow at Grand Canyon, at least 18 inches on the north side. And more coming. I’m glad as the earth so needs this moisture. I’m also glad I’m not there, snowed in.

Pretty to look at from somewhere warm.

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This is one of the lens I use on my Nikon D5100