Last updated: February 2, 2021
Place
Ken Patrick Trail (North Kaibab Trailhead)
NPS
Quick Facts
Location:
North Rim
Amenities
1 listed
Trailhead
The Ken Patrick Trail between the Uncle Jim Loop and the Cape Royal Road is currently NOT maintained and some sections may be impassible. Fallen trees and blocked sections of the trail are common.
The 3 mile (4.9 km) eastern section of Ken Patrick trail from Point Imperial to Cape Royal Road is scenic with great views of the canyon and a recovering section North Rim forest which has experienced several fires in the area over the last few years.
Trail Information
One-way Distance: 9.8 miles (15.8 km), Unmaintained, not recommended.
Elevation change: Minimal
Average Hiking Time: 6 hours one-way
History
Born in 1933, Ken Patrick was an accomplished hiker and park ranger who grew up in the Grand Canyon area. His father was a manager at Phantom Ranch, and Ken had the luxury of growing up a world wonder and exploring as much of it as possible.
In his twenties, he began a career that started in Grand Canyon, followed by the Arizona Department of Public Safety, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, and Point Reyes National Seashore.
On the morning of August 5, 1973, Ken approached three individuals while on duty at Point Reyes. One of them fired shots at the park ranger, who was found dead at the scene by a colleague later that day. His gun was holstered and concealed under his uniform jacket. The individuals, apparently members of The Black Panther organization, were later apprehended and convicted on evidence of deer poaching, stolen checks, drug possession, and the murder of Ken Patrick.
Ken Patrick was laid to rest at the South Rim in Grand Canyon Pioneer Cemetery on August 9, 1973.