I've hiked R2R 3 times in past years, twice south to north, once n. to s., always as one day hikes. When I decided to go back this autumn I couldn't decide which way to do it so I said, what the hell, why not do both.
Despite the 1,000' elevation difference between the north and south rims I think the hike is easier going north. The south rim gains/loses 4460' in 7.8 miles (Bright Angel) or 4,800' in 6.3 miles (South Kaibab). The North Kaibab gains/loses 5,840 in 14.2 miles. And about 2,000' of that 5,840 is gained very gradually over 9 miles. The north rim trail only gets moderately steep for the last 5 miles and it's never as steep as the south.
I know you've done your hike and don't need my input. I'm posting this for anyone else reading the thread who might think about going.
