> And my friends tell me the North Rim "opens" on May 15. What does this mean? Can I not start down from the North Rim before May 15?

It is hard to believe, seeing how many people were packed in at the North Rim Lodge last week. But that is what I am told, too. Julius' trip was keyed on the N Rim opening.

But do call: "Backcountry Information Center: (928) 638-7875 between 1 pm and 5 pm Monday through Friday, except on federal holidays" GC contacts

With the popularity of GC, it seems like they would begin allowing access earlier in the year.