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This pleasant loop trail is shaded and easy, offering views of Bright Angel Canyon.


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Map Key

2.6

Miles

4.2

KM

Point to Point

8,454' 2,577 m

High

8,256' 2,516 m

Low

227' 69 m

Up

229' 70 m

Down

3%

Avg Grade (2°)

18%

Max Grade (10°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Family Friendly Pleasant and shaded loop with fantastic views.

Description

The Uncle Jim Trail starts at the signed intersection with the Ken Patrick Trail. The trail is a lollipop shaped route. Hike east along the "stem" of the lollipop, heading steeply downhill into a valley and back up the other side. This dip is the most arduous part of the trail.

Upon reaching the far side of the valley, the trail splits to form each arm of the loop. You can complete the circle in either direction, this description takes the left fork to go clockwise. Stay on the lookout for fossilized seashells and sponges in the trailside Kaibab limestone. Pretty neat that this rim of the canyon was under water a mere 250 million years ago. Continue through the forest plateau and pop out at the canyon rim for the infrequently seen view of Bright Angel Canyon. Some of the South Rim is visible, but the inner gorge is hidden. You can see Walhalla Plateau, Bright Angel Point and the beginning switchbacks of the North Kaibab Trail.

Once you're finished absorbing the views at Uncle Jim Point, proceed north to finish the loop. The remainder of the loop back to the "stem" of the lollipop passes through an old forest fire area and does not have canyon views. Retrace your steps left (west) along the "stem" then arrive at the junction with the Ken Patrick trail. Note: this trail is also used by mules, so be respectful and watch out for droppings!

Historical Factoid: this trail is named for James Owen, a game warden who lived on the North Rim for many years. His claim to fame was killing over 500 mountain lions in a (now discredited) attempt to protect the mule deer living in the area.

Flora & Fauna

Fir, spruce, ponderosa pine, aspen, mushrooms. Squirrels, deer, turkey.

Contacts

Shared By:

Megan W

Trail Ratings

  3.0 from 1 vote

#32

in North Rim

#29917

Overall
  3.0 from 1 vote
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Trail Rankings

#32

in North Rim

#996

in Arizona

#29,917

Overall
2 Views Last Month
889 Since Jun 15, 2015
Intermediate Intermediate

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Photos

On the Uncle Jim Trail, North Rim of the Grand Canyon.  (Photo by Bryan Dougherty)
Jun 15, 2015 near Grand C…, AZ
A morning hike on the Uncle Jim trail, at the viewpoint.   (Photo by brewbooks)
Jun 15, 2015 near Grand C…, AZ
Trail junction - where Uncle Jim Trail leaves Ken Patrick Trail
Jun 15, 2015 near Grand C…, AZ
Typical scenery on the Uncle Jim Trail (Photo by Bryan Dougherty)
Jun 15, 2015 near Grand C…, AZ

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