Few sites in the world beat the Grand Canyon in magnificence. To experience this, you can either opt for the more popular South Rim of the canyon or the North Rim. The major difference between the two is that the North Rim is quieter and less crowded and would be a relief for anyone looking to avoid crowds after hitting the popular trails in Moab.
If you’re planning a trip to the North Rim, take time to go past Kanab and see what hidden gems you’ll uncover along the way. That’s what we do during our trail rides and we’ve made plenty of discoveries to date.
Jumpup Point – Kanab – North Rim Trail
One of those hidden destinations you should check out as part of your tour of the North Rim is Jumpup Point. Found on the remote northwestern side of the Grand Canyon, near Jacob’s Lake, Arizona, Jumpup Point gives you a vantage point to check out the majestic vistas before you.
The drive to Jumpup Point is moderately difficult but doable in a 4WD with sufficient ground clearance. Once there, you can choose to check out Jumpup Cabin which sits on the edge of Jumpup Canyon, giving you a panoramic view of the beautiful Kanab Creek Wilderness. This historic structure was built in the early 1900s and has served as temporary quarters for local cattle ranchers as well as a forest service ranger station.
From the front door of the cabin, you can gaze out over the canyon walls below, taking in the yuccas, sagebrush, pinyon, and juniper. Approximately 9.6 miles south of Jumpup Point, the Kanab River flows into the Colorado River through Kanab Canyon. This is a welcome relief since Jumpup Point is generally drier and hotter than other sites around, despite the 5,500ft elevation.
Trip Preparation
The one thing you have to keep in mind while preparing for an adventure to Jumpup Point is that you’ll be heading to one of the remotest parts of the Grand Canyon that’s accessible by vehicle. We strongly recommend that you don’t make the trip alone and also ensure that you have a map of the area handy so you don’t lose your way.
The best time to make the trip is during the summer and the fall. Though the trail is relatively easy when dry, wet or muddy conditions can significantly increase the trail’s difficulty. Take plenty of food and water with you as well as sunscreen and GMRS radios in case cell reception is poor or non-existent.
Also, ensure that your ride runs smoothly by bringing it to the Dixie 4-Wheel Drive in St. George for service and maintenance before or after your trip. Contact us for this or other 4WD questions or issues you may have as well as any questions about the trails around St. George.
