Day 6: North Rim Grand Canyon

Today we really sleep in. But thanks to the time change, we are now in Arizona and get an hour gifted. After breakfast, we start our tour to the Grand Canyon. The drive takes an hour, then we reach the North Rim. 12 years ago we were at the South Rim. We find a parking space and first explore the visitor center. There we receive important information about hikes. Unfortunately, we have to realize that a main trail we wanted to hike is closed. In addition, we are not allowed to drive a part of the park with our camper, as we exceed the permitted length. Annoying, because we are here for 2 days and this greatly limits our options. So today we hike along the edge, look for animals, and complete the tasks of the Junior Ranger program. One task is, for example, to observe a beetle, feel a stone, smell a tree, close your eyes and listen to nature. It is always very interesting to pause and take the time to consciously perceive the environment. We take a 2.2-kilometer long hiking trail and can thus complete the animal and plant bingo. This way, the kids earn their 3rd Junior Ranger badge. The view of the canyon is fantastic. However, it is different from the South Rim; there you can also see the long gorge, here this view is blocked by a rock wall. Nevertheless, the view of the red sandstone is worth it. We are at an altitude of 2500 meters and fortunately the weather is not so hot anymore. Despite our changes in plans, we spend time there until early afternoon. Our campground for tonight is 45 kilometers away. We spend the afternoon relaxed and play a round of cards with the children in the evening.