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Grand Canyon rim-to-rim may open south to north on May 15, but closures still make planning uncertain. *Gear I'm Using Now:* * inReach: https://hkgy.co/inreach * Hiking App: https://hkgy.co/app * Watch: https://hkgy.co/watch * Shoes: https://hkgy.co/shoes * Pack: https://hkgy.co/backpack * Rescue Insurance: https://hkgy.co/insurance *Full Hiking Gear List (What I Use Now - Tested & Not Sponsored):* https://hikingguy.com/gear *Links:* * Grand Canyon Hiker Dude Podcast: The Grand Canyon Hiker Dude Show * Brian’s Article: https://hikin.club/blogs/podcast-resources/after-the-fire-uncertainty-for-the-north-kaibab-trail * NPS Release: https://www.nps.gov/grca/learn/news/2026-north-rim-summer-season-access.htm * River Trail Closure: https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/key-messages.htm * Rim to Rim Guide: https://hikingguy.com/hiking-trails/best-grand-canyon-hikes/rim-to-rim-grand-canyon-hike-guide/ * Website: https://hikingguy.com * Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/hikingguy * Monthly Hiking News (free): https://www.patreon.com/c/hikingguy/ * Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/c/Hikingguy Grand Canyon rim-to-rim hikers planning a 2026 crossing get an update on what may be possible starting May 15. This is most useful for first-time hikers deciding between South Rim to North Rim and North Rim to South Rim routes. The video explains that the North Kaibab Trail is expected to open on May 15 despite major damage from the Dragon Bravo Fire between Redwall Bridge and the North Kaibab trailhead. Trail crews are still expected to work on repairs, so intermittent construction closures remain a real possibility. The speaker notes that water appears available from Phantom Ranch onward and that Cottonwood Campground is also expected to open on May 15. A key takeaway is that south to north may be technically possible, but it comes with important caveats. Weather, construction activity, or emergency incidents could still shut the route down with little notice. The usual North Rim lodging and campground options are also limited, so overnight logistics are harder than normal. For hikers considering the more traditional North Rim to South Rim crossing, the video says that route is still effectively on hold because of the Silver Bridge closure and the River Trail closure between River Resthouse and the South Kaibab Trail through June 30. An alternate route using South Kaibab, Tonto, and Bright Angel is described as very exposed and not recommended for beginners, especially given recent search and rescue concerns. --- *Disclaimer:* Some of these links are affiliate links where I’ll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. I only recommend gear I actually use and trust.