SR 67

SR 67 to Grand Canyon North Rim closing for winter Tuesday, Nov. 26

SR 67 to Grand Canyon North Rim closing for winter Tuesday, Nov. 26

I-17 101 traffic interchange

SR 67 to Grand Canyon North Rim closing for winter Tuesday, Nov. 26

SR 67 to Grand Canyon North Rim closing for winter Tuesday, Nov. 26

November 26, 2019

PHOENIX – Because of the incoming winter storm, the Arizona Department of Transportation is closing State Route 67 to the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park on Tuesday, Nov. 26.

During the winter, ADOT closes and doesn’t clear snow from SR 67, a 43-mile highway between US 89A at Jacob Lake and the park, since North Rim visitor accommodations are shut down. After closing on Dec. 1 – or earlier when weather warrants, as in this case – SR 67 reopens each spring, usually around mid-May.

US 89A remains open during the winter, as do the Grand Canyon National Park facilities at the South Rim.

Meanwhile, State Route 473 leading from State Route 260 to lakes in the White Mountains will close for the winter Wednesday, Nov. 27, due to the incoming storm. State routes 261 and 273, also in the White Mountains, are scheduled to close no later than Dec. 31.

ADOT reminds motorists heading into snow country to drive with caution and follow this advice:

  • Don’t let GPS and navigation apps replace common sense. When a highway is closed, a suggested alternate route involving an unpaved, unplowed road can lead you into danger.
  • Pack an emergency kit, a fully charged cellphone, extra clothing, blankets, water and snacks.
  • Slow down. Drive defensively. Be patient and allow additional time for your trip. Never pass a snowplow.
  • Leave sufficient space between your vehicle and those ahead of you. Give yourself plenty of room and time to stop or to avoid hazards.
  • Make sure your vehicle has plenty of fuel.
  • Check weather and road conditions before you travel. Let someone know your route.
  • Bring a small bag of sand (or cat litter) for wheel traction.

Additional information on winter driving is available at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

Before heading out, be sure to call 511 or visit ADOT’s Arizona Traveler Information site at az511.gov for the latest highway conditions. The website features camera images along state highways that give drivers a glimpse of weather conditions in various regions. ADOT’s Twitter account (@ArizonaDOT) and Facebook page (facebook.com/AZDOT) provide real-time information and interaction. And the free ADOT Alerts app available at ADOTAlerts.com will send critical information, including alternate routes, should snow and ice close a major highway.

Highway History: State Route 67

Highway History: State Route 67

Highway History: State Route 67

Highway History: State Route 67

May 10, 2019

By Kathy Cline / ADOT Communications

Winding through forest and meadows between Jacob Lake and the Grand Canyon's North Rim, scenic State Route 67, which reopens Wednesday, May 15, after being closed for the winter along with park facilities, is a drive worth taking.

Pines and aspens line this winding route, which was a trail and U.S. Forest Service road long before being paved in 1940 and becoming part of the state highway system in 1941. Its beauty earned a designation in 1985 as an Arizona State Scenic Road and National Forest Scenic Byway within the Kaibab National Forest.

In 1998, Federal Highway Administration recognized SR 67 as a National Scenic Byway.

After Grand Canyon National Park facilities close for the winter, SR 67 closes as well until the park's North Rim, campgrounds and other amenities open in mid-May.

Blog-2019-0510-jacob-lake-historical-photo

The area receives a great deal more snow than most other places in Arizona's high country – more than 9 feet during an average winter. And the snow can linger. The photo atop this post shows SR 67 just the other day as ADOT crews got it ready to reopen.

The beautiful scenery along SR 67 and throughout the area, along with the dramatic views waiting at the North Rim, make this a popular destination during warmer months.

Our website has more about State Route 67 and about designated scenic highways in the state.

State Route 67 reopens May 15 to Grand Canyon’s North Rim

State Route 67 reopens May 15 to Grand Canyon’s North Rim

I-17 101 traffic interchange

State Route 67 reopens May 15 to Grand Canyon’s North Rim

State Route 67 reopens May 15 to Grand Canyon’s North Rim

May 3, 2019

PHOENIX – In time for the summer tourist season, State Route 67 leading to the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is scheduled to reopen Wednesday, May 15.

The Arizona Department of Transportation closes the winding, 43-mile highway after park facilities shut down for the winter. Leading south from US 89A in Jacob Lake, SR 67 passes through a high-altitude area that averages more than 9 feet of snow annually.

In the spring, ADOT crews plow any remaining snow and conduct any needed pavement repairs before SR 67 reopens along with North Rim lodges, campgrounds and other amenities.

State Route 64 remains open all year to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park.

Before heading off to enjoy the North Rim and other scenic areas of Arizona, motorists should do the following:

  • Make sure all occupants in a vehicle are buckled in.
  • Check tire pressure, fluids and more to make sure a vehicle is in proper running condition.
  • Be patient, including not following other vehicles too closely and building in extra travel time.
  • Get enough sleep before the trip.
  • Bring extra water and food.
  • Never drink and drive.
  • Check for information about highway restrictions and more by visiting az511.gov, calling 511 or following ADOT on Twitter (@ArizonaDOT).

ADOT set to reopen routes to White Mountains area lakes

ADOT set to reopen routes to White Mountains area lakes

I-17 101 traffic interchange

ADOT set to reopen routes to White Mountains area lakes

ADOT set to reopen routes to White Mountains area lakes

April 8, 2019

PHOENIX – With another winter behind us, three White Mountains-area state highways leading to lakes are scheduled to reopen Monday, April 15, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

They are: State Route 261 between Eagar and Big Lake; State Route 273 between Sunrise Park and Big Lake; and State Route 473 between State Route 260 and Hawley Lake.

State Route 366, also known as Swift Trail, which runs up Mount Graham in southeastern Arizona, is scheduled to open on April 15 as well.

Another highway that closes for the winter, State Route 67, leading to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, is expected to reopen in mid-May.

Before heading off to enjoy the mountains, motorists should do the following:

  • Make sure all occupants in a vehicle are buckled in.
  • Check tire pressure, fluids and more to make sure a vehicle is in proper running condition.
  • Be patient, including not following other vehicles too closely and building in extra travel time.
  • Get enough sleep before the trip.
  • Bring extra water and food.
  • Never drink and drive.
  • Check for information about highway restrictions and more by visiting az511.gov, calling 511 or following ADOT on Twitter (@ArizonaDOT).

Annual closure of SR 67 to the Grand Canyon's North Rim is set for next week

Annual closure of SR 67 to the Grand Canyon's North Rim is set for next week

Annual closure of SR 67 to the Grand Canyon's North Rim is set for next week

Annual closure of SR 67 to the Grand Canyon's North Rim is set for next week

November 27, 2018

SR 67 closed during winter

By Laurie Merrill / ADOT Communications

For many an adventurous motorist, the North Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park holds the allure of an alternative perspective of one of the world’s most magnificent views. About 10 percent of all Grand Canyon visitors makes the North Rim a destination.

If you’re hoping to travel to the North Rim this year, time is running out quickly. As we do each year, ADOT will close State Route 67, the paved route to the “other side,” on Monday, Dec. 3. It usually reopens in mid-May.

Most North Rim services have been shut for the season since Oct. 15, including the Grand Canyon Lodge, food services, trail rides, park ranger programs, general store and Visitor Center.

After SR 67 is closed near Jacob Lake (US 89A), you won’t be able to drive to the North Rim. ADOT doesn’t clear plow the 43-mile highway, which averages 9 feet of snow annually and takes motorists through alpine terrain more than 8,000 in elevation.

State Route 64 remains open year-round to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park.

State routes 261, 273 and 473 leading to lakes in the White Mountains region are scheduled to close for the winter on Dec. 31. The highways could close earlier depending on weather.

Tips on winter driving are available at azdot.gov/KnowSnow. These include being careful if your GPS suggests taking a detour down an unpaved, unplowed road. That can get you into big trouble. Never let an app replace common sense.

SR 67 to North Rim of Grand Canyon to close for winter Monday, Dec. 3

SR 67 to North Rim of Grand Canyon to close for winter Monday, Dec. 3

I-17 101 traffic interchange

SR 67 to North Rim of Grand Canyon to close for winter Monday, Dec. 3

SR 67 to North Rim of Grand Canyon to close for winter Monday, Dec. 3

November 26, 2018

PHOENIX – State Route 67 between Jacob Lake (US 89A) and the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is scheduled to close for the winter season on Monday, Dec. 3. 

ADOT doesn’t clear snow from SR 67 during the winter since North Rim visitor accommodations are closed. The highway reopens each spring, usually around mid-May. US 89A remains open during the winter.

State routes 261, 273 and 473 leading to lakes in the White Mountains region will also close for the winter on Dec. 31. The highways could close earlier depending on weather.

ADOT reminds motorists heading into snow country to drive with caution and follow this advice:

  • Don’t let GPS and navigation apps replace common sense. When a highway is closed, a suggested alternate route involving an unpaved, unplowed road can lead you into danger.
  • Pack an emergency kit, a fully charged cellphone, extra clothing, blankets, water and snacks.
  • Slow down. Drive defensively. Be patient and allow additional time for your trip. Never pass a snowplow.
  • Leave sufficient space between your vehicle and those ahead of you. Give yourself plenty of room and time to stop or to avoid hazards.
  • Make sure your vehicle has plenty of fuel.
  • Check weather and road conditions before you travel. Let someone know your route.
  • Bring a small bag of sand (or cat litter) for wheel traction.

Additional information on winter driving is available at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

Before heading out, drivers should call 511 or visit ADOT’s Arizona Traveler Information site at az511.gov for the latest highway conditions around the state. The website features camera images along state highways that provide a glimpse of weather conditions in various regions. ADOT’s Twitter account (@ArizonaDOT) and Facebook page (facebook.com/AZDOT) provide real-time information and interaction. And the free ADOT Alerts app available at ADOTAlerts.com will send critical information, including alternate routes, should snow and ice close a major highway. 

SR 67 set to open for North Rim seasonal visitors

SR 67 set to open for North Rim seasonal visitors

SR 67 set to open for North Rim seasonal visitors

SR 67 set to open for North Rim seasonal visitors

May 10, 2018

By Peter Corbett / ADOT Communications

The annual migration of adventurous tourists and rim-to-rim hikers begins next week when State Route 67 and the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park reopen for the season.

The 43-mile highway from US 89A at Jacob Lake opens on Tuesday, May15.

The North Rim, at an elevation of 8,200 feet and isolated in far northern Arizona, receives a fraction of the national park’s 6.25 million annual visitors. Plus, its visitor season is only about half the year. SR 64 to the South Rim is open year-round.

The North Rim is 220 miles from the South Rim and 350 miles from Phoenix. Cross-canyon hikers traverse 21 miles from the North to South Rim and an elevation change of more than 10,000 feet or roughly a mile down and a mile up.

SR 67 is typically open from May 15 to Dec. 1 but closes earlier if there’s heavy snowfall. North Rim lodges and most facilities close in mid-October.

With the park closed each winter, the Arizona Department of Transportation does not plow snow from SR 67. The North Rim averages about 9 feet of snow annually.

SR 67 is a scenic route through the Kaibab National Forest. The highway was paved in 1940 and is known as the Kaibab Plateau North Rim Parkway.

In 1985, the highway was designated a National Forest Scenic Byway and a National Scenic Byway in 1998.

State Route 67 reopens May 15 to Grand Canyon North Rim

State Route 67 reopens May 15 to Grand Canyon North Rim

I-17 101 traffic interchange

State Route 67 reopens May 15 to Grand Canyon North Rim

State Route 67 reopens May 15 to Grand Canyon North Rim

May 8, 2018

PHOENIX – State Route 67 from US 89A at Jacob Lake to the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is scheduled to reopen Tuesday, May 15.

After the park’s North Rim facilities close each winter, the Arizona Department of Transportation doesn’t plow the 43-mile highway. It reopens each spring along with park facilities.

State Route 64 is open year-round to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park.

The winding SR 67 takes motorists through alpine terrain above 8,000 feet elevation to the North Rim, which averages about 9 feet of snow annually. The highway has been closed for winter since Dec. 1.

ADOT set to reopen routes to lakes in White Mountains

ADOT set to reopen routes to lakes in White Mountains

I-17 101 traffic interchange

ADOT set to reopen routes to lakes in White Mountains

ADOT set to reopen routes to lakes in White Mountains

April 6, 2018

PHOENIX – With another winter season in the books, three state highways to lakes in the White Mountains are scheduled to reopen Thursday, April 12, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

They are: State Route 261 between Eagar and Big Lake; State Route 273 between Sunrise Park and Big Lake; and State Route 473 between State Route 260 and Hawley Lake.

State Route 366, also known as Swift Trail that runs up Mount Graham in southeastern Arizona, is scheduled to open on April 15.

Another highway that closes for the winter, State Route 67, leading to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, is anticipated to reopen in mid-May.

Before heading off to enjoy the mountains, motorists should do the following:

  • Make sure all occupants in a vehicle are buckled in.
  • Check tire pressure, fluids and more to make sure a vehicle is in proper running condition.
  • Be patient, including not following other vehicles too closely and building in extra travel time.
  • Get enough sleep before the trip.
  • Bring extra water and food.
  • Never drink and drive.
  • Check for information about highway restrictions and more by visiting az511.gov, calling 511 or following ADOT on Twitter (@ArizonaDOT).

State highway to North Rim closes for the winter

State highway to North Rim closes for the winter

State highway to North Rim closes for the winter

State highway to North Rim closes for the winter

December 5, 2017

Grand Canyon Lodge

By Peter Corbett / ADOT Communications

As this National Park Service photo from 1941 shows, winters can be fierce at the Grand Canyon's North Rim. That's why park facilities close for the winter season – and why we close State Route 67 along with them.

2017-1205-capture

Winter Closure Map

As of Tuesday, Dec. 5, we've shut a gate across SR 67 south of US 89A at Jacob Lake, and we don't plan to plow the highway again until spring. The 43-mile SR 67 usually reopens in mid-May with North Rim lodges, campgrounds and other amenities.

At an elevation close to 8,300 feet, the North Rim averages 9½ feet of snow annually. A record 24 feet buried park lodges in 1979.

State Route 64 remains open all year to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, but temporary road closures aren't uncommon in the park after snowstorms.

When a highway is closed in snow country, be careful not to follow suggestions from a GPS or smartphone navigation app that would take you down an unpaved, unplowed road. That can lead to you getting stranded in a remote area.

Other tips for winter travel:

  • Pack an emergency kit, a fully charged cellphone, extra clothing, water and snacks.
  • Check weather and road conditions before you travel. Let someone know your route.
  • Make sure your vehicle has plenty of fuel.

Get more tips at azdot.gov/KnowSnow. Our Arizona Traveler Information site at az511.gov has the latest conditions and lists other high-country highways that are closed for the winter season.