Toroweap
Lava Falls Rapid, Colorado River, near Toroweap. Click on the image for a larger view.
Three-thousand foot sheer red rock cliffs drop almost directly to the Colorado River at Toroweap Overlook. This is a remote part of the Grand Canyon's north rim and is difficult to reach, but for those visitors willing to travel long dirt roads, the rewards are many. (See the Getting There page for directions.)
Volcanoes
At Toroweap, the dramatic landscape includes nearby Vulcans Throne, an old volcanic cinder cone, which is back-dropped by the equally volcanic Uinkaret Mountains. About 500,000 years ago, these volcanoes spewed red-hot lava into the Colorado River, filling the inner gorge with steam and ultimately creating a series of lava dams 1,200 feet high and sixty miles long. These dams, which created lakes that flooded much of the Grand Canyon, have been eroded away almost without a trace by the river.
Lava Falls
Lava Falls Rapid, on the river about a mile downstream of Toroweap Overlook, is a visible and audible remnant of the catastrophic events of the geologic past. One of the hardest rapids on the river to run, the river drops thirty seven feet over and among ominous black rocks the size of small houses. The notorious rapids is not itself the remains of a lava dam, but instead formed where volcanic boulders washed down from Prospect Canyon and piled up in the Colorado River.
No Services
There are no services of any type in the Toroweap area and all visitors must bring all food, water, and other supplies with them. The portion of the access road within the park is not recommended for passenger vehicles.
Toroweap Campground
This primitive campground has 11 sites and is located along the access road just before the viewpoint. Water is not available and campers must bring their own fire wood. Gathering firewood is prohibited.
Lava Falls Trail
This difficult and poorly marked trail starts near the west base of Vulcans Throne and drops 2,500 feet in 1.5 miles to the Colorado River. There are a few places where you'll have to scramble down short rock faces. Once at the river, you can hike cross-country along the river bank to Lava Falls Rapid. The south-facing slope is extremely hot in summer. PLan your hike for early morning and carry plenty of water.
Tuckup Trail
This long and meandering trail starts as an old jeep road from the Toroweap access road north of the campground and follows the Esplanade east many miles to Tuckup Canyon. Much of this old trail is faint and difficult to follow, and water sources are unreliable. The first section, starting north of the campground, is distinct and makes a good day hike.