Author Topic: Hiking in FEB? South Rim completely closed? (Read 1107 times) Tweet

seb75013 · « **on:** October 25, 2009, 10:24:27 AM »

Hey there -

I'm planning my first trip to BiBe on February (I know, it is in 4 months, but I simply cannot wait and want to make sure I get the most out of it!).
I read that a lot of people find the south rim trail spectacular and highly recommended for a solid day hike (or backpacking overnight). I also read on the NPS website that is usually closed FEB to APR due to the falcons nesting season. I just wanted to know if only sections of the trail are closed, or if the entire trail is simply not accessible!

thanks!

mule ears · « **Reply #1 on:** October 25, 2009, 10:35:37 AM »

They only close the SE Rim trail from it's jct with the Boot Canyon trail around to just past the NE4 campsite. While there are some great views off the trail especially near the SE 3&4 campsites, the most spectacular views are off the area just around the SW 4 campsite.

And 4 months in advance is never too early to plan, it's part of the fun

seb75013 · « **Reply #2 on:** October 25, 2009, 11:38:35 AM »

good to know!
thanks for a prompt reply!

Cookie · « **Reply #3 on:** October 25, 2009, 02:10:51 PM »

Just FYI, that part of the rim is closed Feb 1 to July 15 for the falcons. I would really recommend doing at least a one nighter up there. It is amazing to be able to watch the sunset from up there and really soak up the view and the quiet. The side trek up Emory peak is always worth it too!
....and as Mule Ears said, it is NEVER to early to plan.....and dream.....
Happy planning-sounds like you are already taking advantage of the wealth of info on this site!
~Cookie

seb75013 · « **Reply #4 on:** October 25, 2009, 03:27:04 PM »

Quote from: cookie on October 25, 2009, 02:10:51 PM

Just FYI, that part of the rim is closed Feb 1 to July 15 for the falcons. I would really recommend doing at least a one nighter up there. It is amazing to be able to watch the sunset from up there and really soak up the view and the quiet. The side trek up Emory peak is always worth it too!
....and as Mule Ears said, it is NEVER to early to plan.....and dream.....
Happy planning-sounds like you are already taking advantage of the wealth of info on this site!
~Cookie

thx for the hint cookie. I was definitely considering Emory peak too.

RichardM · « **Reply #5 on:** October 25, 2009, 05:49:03 PM »

The 2007 version of Q&A on this subject is here:
http://www.bigbendchat.com/portal/forum/hiking-the-mountains/south-rim-closed-t2885.0.html

seb75013 · « **Reply #6 on:** October 25, 2009, 07:14:23 PM »

thanks Richard - very helpful!
looks like there's still plenty to do in the area.

dkerr24 · « **Reply #7 on:** October 25, 2009, 07:46:09 PM »

The view from the top near SW4 campsite is definitely one of the best in the park, and is not affected by the trail closure. My wife and I dayhiked up there in Feb '08. Definitely a long dayhike, took about 3-4 hours each way via the Laguna Meadows trail that begins in the basin.

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