About This Route
The North Rim Winter Ski Traverse follows plowed AZ-67 from Jacob Lake to the unplowed section near DeMotte Campground, then skis 15-20 miles to historic North Rim Lodge sites. This expert-level backcountry route accesses empty rim lodges and Transept Trail extensions, with 200-300 inches annual snowfall on the Kaibab Plateau. Best from February to April, when corn snow ripens. NPS permits required for overnights; self-register at trailheads. Follow LNT by camping on durable surfaces, 100 feet from water. Epic multi-day trips blend forested glades with open plateau vistas.
Safety Considerations
Remoteness amplifies risks; no services beyond Jacob Lake. Highway plows stop at heavy snow, leaving 10-foot drifts. Cornices calve off plateau edges, per CAIC reports; probe 20 feet back. Temperatures plummet to -20F; use vapor barrier liners in boots. Navigation critical in flat light; pre-load routes on CalTopo. Group size minimum three, with rope for crevasse-like slots. Elk herds spook unpredictably; store food in OPSaks. REI advises beacon checks daily; practice searches pre-trip.
Essential Gear
Overnight-ready: 40L pack with -40F sleeping bag (Western Mountaineering), tarp shelter. AT skis or splitboards with Voile straps. Full avy kit, repair kit, and SPOT gen4. Snow shovel doubles as pot holder.