Winter Activities
Jacob Lake Inn is open all year round. This provides winter sports enthusiasts with a wonderful center for activities on the Kaibab Plateau during the colder months. Snowmobilers come many weekends to enjoy great rides on the trails marked to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Cross country skiing and snowshoeing are also popular winter activities in the Kaibab National Forest. Winter can be a great time of year to have the Kaibab National Forest and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon all to yourself. Please call us at 928-643-7232 to inquire about current snow conditions. Book your getaway to Jacob Lake Inn and the beautiful Kaibab National Forest on our reservations page.
General Information: With the arrival of winter, the forest development roads take on a new look. They provide the forest visitor with a variety of winter recreation opportunities. Snowmobiling through this winter wonderland gives one the chance to see the District in a season and mood much different then that of summer.
Much of the snowmobiling is done in areas above 8000 feet in elevation; high enough that, in good snow years, you can ride from mid-December to late March. Snow at lower elevations often disappears between storms, so you should contact the District office to check on conditions before planning a trip.
In cooperation with the Arizona State Parks' Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Fund, the North Kaibab Ranger District has signed a network of snowed-in forest roads for snowmobile use.
Snowmobiling is prohibited on Arizona State Highway 67.
Access: The snowmobile route begins at the Kaibab Plateau Visitor Center, Jacob Lake, Arizona. Located at the intersection of US Highway 89A and Arizona State Highway 67, the route is marked with orange snow poles and/or diamond shaped markers.
Facilities: There are no facilities associated with this route. Adjacent to the Kaibab Plateau Visitor Center is Jacob Lake Inn. Facilities at the Inn include lodging, restaurant, limited grocery supplies, and a gas station.
Length of Route One Way: The route is approximately 40 miles.
Safety: As with all winter activities, there are risks to snowmobiling. By being prepared and using common sense, you can reduce these risks greatly. First, always let someone know where you will be and when you expect to return. Do not ride alone. Bring extra food, clothing, water, and spare parts in case of breakdown. Carry a district map with you. Keep an eye on the weather and be alert to any changes in the weather. Play safe and be considerate.
