National Park Service
U.S. Department of the InteriorGrand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon, Arizona

Trip Planner
Table of Contents

WELCOME TO GRAND CANYON.................... 2
GENERAL INFORMATION................................ 3
GETTING TO GRAND CANYON....................... 4
WEATHER......................................................... 5
SOUTH RIM...................................................... 6
SOUTH RIM SERVICES AND FACILITIES.......... 7
NORTH RIM...................................................... 8
NORTH RIM SERVICES AND FACILITIES.......... 9
TOURS AND TRIPS........................................... 10
HIKING MAP.................................................... 12
DAY HIKING..................................................... 13
HIKING TIPS..................................................... 14
BACKPACKING................................................. 15
GET INVOLVED................................................. 17
OUTSIDE THE NATIONAL PARK...................... 18
PARK PARTNERS.............................................. 19

Navigating Trip PlannerThis document uses links to easenavigation. A box around a word or
website indicates a link.

Welcome to Grand Canyon

Welcome to Grand Canyon National Park!
For many, a visit to Grand Canyon is a once in a lifetime opportunity and we hope youfind the following pages useful for trip planning. Whether your first visit or your tenth, thisplanner can help you design the trip of your dreams.
As we welcome over 6 million visitors a year to Grand Canyon, your safety is of theutmost importance to us. We want you to have an enjoyable and memorable visit but mostimportantly we want you to have a safe visit. Use this information to start planning how you
will explore Grand Canyon but don’t be afraid to check in with park staff when you get here.
Our knowledgeable rangers can help perfect any itinerary you put together and ensure you
leave with happy memories.
Exploring any park, Grand Canyon included, can have some dangers. Be sure you aredrinking enough water and eating salty snacks (if hiking). Look down to see where your feetare; we know the views are breathtaking, but don’t forget to keep a safe distance from therim of the Canyon. Wildlife can be cute or even majestic but maintaining a safe distance andnot feeding the animals is best for you and the animal. Just by being aware of these few safety
best practices and using all of the trip planning resources available here, we know that you
will have a fantastic experience visiting us at Grand Canyon National Park!

Grand Canyon National Park Trip Planner 2

General Information

National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior

Located entirely in northern Arizona, the park
encompasses 277 miles of the Colorado River andadjacent uplands. One of the most spectacular
examples of erosion anywhere in the world,Grand Canyon is unmatched in the incomparable
vistas it offers to visitors on the rim. Grand
Canyon National Park is a World Heritage Site.
Grand Canyon National ParkPO Box 129
Grand Canyon, Arizona 86023 USA
Park Headquarters
928-638-7888
Websitewww.nps.gov/grca/

Park Openings and Closings

Park Entrance Fees

The Village and Desert View on the SouthRim are open all year and park entrances
remain open 24 hours a day. North Rim
facilities open mid-May and close midOctober. Park entrances remain open
24 hours a day during this time. Hoursfor visitor centers and businesses varythroughout the year.

Fees collected support projects in the park.
Admission to the park is $35 per private
vehicle; $30 per motorcycle; and $20 perperson entering the park via Grand Canyon
Railway, park shuttle bus, private rafting
trip, walking, or riding a bicycle. The passcan be used for seven days and includes
both rims. Pay fees at park entrance stations
or at some businesses outside the park.
Every year the National Park Service offers
entrance fee free days. For complete fee
information, including Annual, Active
Military, Senior, and Access passes visit

Park Information
The park produces a Pocket Map with aNorth Rim and South Rim edition that
contains a map and information about
services, facilities, and park ranger
programs. It is available in French, German,
Japanese, Italian, Spanish, Korean, andChinese. A hiking brochure is available forthose planning to hike one of the park’s
main trails down into Grand Canyon. An
Accessibility Guide is also available. Obtain
publications at entrance stations, visitor
centers, or at
go.nps.gov/136ojl

Accessibility
For information about accessibility in Grand
Canyon National Park, see

go.nps.gov/y5uu6f

Sustainability
Grand Canyon National Park incorporates
sustainability into all aspects of its
operations. Use your refillable water bottle
to fill up on free Grand Canyon spring waterat major trailheads, visitor centers, grocery
stores, and lodges. Please recycle—recycling
receptacles are conveniently located and ascommon as trash receptacles. Discover whatelse you can do to protect the environment
while traveling here and beyond at
go.nps.gov/1b2rzt

go.nps.gov/1rtxl2

Pets
Pets must be leashed at all times and may
not be taken below the rim, inside buildings,
or on shuttle buses. Persons wishing to takeservice animals below the rim must checkin at the Backcountry Information Center.
A kennel on the South Rim provides animalboarding.
The National Park Service cares for the
special places saved by the American people
so that all may experience our heritage.

go.nps.gov/loxbia

EXPERIENCE YOUR AMERICA™
Grand Canyon National Park Trip Planner 3

Getting To Grand Canyon
To Salt Lake City

50 Miles

15

168

93

169

NEVADA

North

59

Las
Vegas

89

Kanab

KAIBAB INDIAN
RESERVATION

L. Powell

UTAH
ARIZONA Page

Fredonia
389

ALT

89

GRAND CANYONNATIONAL PARK
67

Lake
Mead

Pearce Ferryoad

Tuweeper
Riv

Grand Canyon ol orC
Skywalk

HAVASUPAIINDIANRESERVATION95

HUALAPAI INDIAN
RESERVATION

Lake
Mohave

A A
D
A NI
EV OR
F
LI

CA

N

Peach
Springs

93

Colorado R

66

AMTRAK

Stops at Williams and Flagstaff, Arizona.
Shuttle service runs from Flagstaff to theSouth Rim.

ALT

89

Sedona
179

d
ora
Col

93

o

Ri
ve
r

BlytheFrom the north—take US 89 or AZ 160 to95
AZ 64 in Cameron, Arizona. Proceed west
on AZ 64 to the East Entrance of the park.
NORTH RIM

Take US 89A to Jacob Lake, Arizona,and turn south onto AZ 67 to the North
Entrance of the park.

ShuttlePrescottService
69

To Phoenix

260

17

GROOME TRANSPORTATION
89

Service between Flagstaff and Grand
PaysonCanyon three times a day; also serves
Phoenix, Tucson, and other locations in
71
Arizona.Wickenburg
928-350-8466
groometransportation.com

87

60

TRANSCANYON SHUTTLE

Phoenix
Provides daily
10 trips each way between the
North and South rims from mid-May to
mid-October. Also runs in off-season from
October 16 through November 15, but must
call first to confirm.
928-638-2820
trans-canyonshuttle.com

800-872-7245
amtrak.com
GRAND CANYON RAILWAY

The train leaves Williams Depot at 9:30
am and arrives at Grand Canyon Depot at
11:45 am. The train departs Grand Canyon
at 3:30 pm, arriving in Williams at 5:45 pm.
A second departure may be offered during
peak periods; call for information.
800-843-8746
thetrain.com

Bus

GREYHOUND

Serves Flagstaff and Williams, Arizona.
800-231-2222
greyhound.com

Tusayan Route Shuttle Bus

Coordinates*

PARK AND RIDE: WE’LL BE YOUR GUIDEGRAND CANYON VISITOR CENTER (SOUTH RIM)

Latitude, Longitude: 36° 03’32”N 112° 06’33”WUTM Zone 12, NAD 83: 400093 East, 3991074
North
DESERT VIEW WATCHTOWER (DESERT VIEW)

Latitude, Longitude: 36° 2’38”N 111° 49’33”WUTM Zone 12, NAD 83: 425584 East, 3989159
North
NORTH RIM VISITOR CENTER (NORTH RIM)

Latitude, Longitude: 36° 11’51”N 112° 03’09”W
UTM Zone 12, NAD 83: 405379 East, 4006465
North

Fly from Boulder City, Nevada, near Las
Vegas, to Grand Canyon Airport in Tusayan,
Arizona. Ride a taxi from the airport to
the South Rim; rental cars not available at
Grand Canyon Airport.

Train

40

Flagstaff

89A

GRAND CANYON AIRLINES

grandcanyonairlines.com

Seligman

66

Airlines serve Phoenix, Arizona, and
Las Vegas, Nevada. Limited flights go to
Flagstaff, Arizona. Rent a car at any of these
airports to continue to Grand Canyon
National Park or reserve a shuttle to thepark from Phoenix or Flagstaff.

866-235-9422

180

64

89

From the south—exit I-40 at Williams,
Arizona, and proceed north on AZ 64; orexit on US 180 in Flagstaff, Arizona, andfollow US 180 to the intersection with AZ
64, then turn north and follow AZ 64 tothe60
To LosSouthAngeles Entrance of the park.
10

Cameron89

To Los Angeles

SOUTH RIM

160

Valle

40

Private 95Vehicle

The Gap64

Tusayan64

Ash Fork

Kingman

NAVAJONATION

DesertView

Williams

68

89T

North
Rim
South Rim
Grand Canyon
Village

Boulder
City

163

89

Jacob Lake

169

95

Airport

9

9

iv er

0

St. George

ColoradoR

50 Kilometers

ARIZONA UTAH

18

0

To Bryce Canyon N.P.

17

*GPS may be unreliable in the area.
Be prepared with a map or atlas.

Why wait in lines and drive in circles looking
for parking? During the busy season, longentrance station lines and difficult to findparking can take the enjoyment out of yourtrip. Park in the gateway community of
Tusayan and ride a shuttle bus into the park.
The Tusayan Route operates from March
to September. After making four stops in
Tusayan, the shuttle bus heads straight to theGrand Canyon Visitor Center, where you canbegin your Grand Canyon experience. No
lines, no hassles, no fuss!
go.nps.gov/1nw8ff

Grand Canyon National Park Trip Planner 4

Weather
Current and Year-Round Weather and Road Conditions go.nps.gov/grca_wr

SUMMERSPRING AND FALL

WINTER

June through August on the rims
May to September in the canyon

April, May, September, and October on therims. March, April, October, and earlyNovember in the canyon

November through March on the rims
December to February in the canyon

Beautiful weather shines on the rims, while
brutal heat tortures the inner canyon. The
high elevation and low humidity causes
dramatic changes in temperature from day
to night; bring a jacket. The excessive heatin the canyon can be dangerous and evenfatal to unprepared hikers. Average rim
temperatures range from 48°F (9°C) to 83°F
(28°C). Inner canyon temperatures range
from 72°F (23°C) to 104°F (40°C).

Come prepared for a variety of conditions
during these changeable seasons. May andOctober are typically dry, but snow on therims is not unusual. Late April and May
feature strong wind on the rims. Seasonable
weather in the canyon offers some of thebest times for hiking, making permits harder
to obtain for overnight camping. Average
rim temperatures range from 32°F (0°C) to
63°F (17°C). Inner canyon temperatures
range from 56°F (13°C) to 82°F (28°C).

While the South Rim remains open yearround, the road to the North Rim closes
with the first heavy snowfall. Canyon views
may be obscured during passing storms,
but canyon formations highlighted by snow
are unforgettable. Grand Canyon National
Park does not refund entrance fees due toweather. The park plows South Rim roads,
but temporary closures may occur. Average
rim temperatures range from 19°F (-7°C)
to 45°F (7°C). Inner canyon temperatures
range from 36°F (2°C) to 56°F (13°C).

LIGHTNING DANGER

Common during summer, monsoon storms
bring dangerous lightning. When you hear
thunder, move away from the canyon rim.
Do not stand under trees. Seek shelter
inside vehicles, shuttle buses, or buildings;
note that shuttle buses only stop at
designated bus stops and will not pick you
up on the side of the road during a storm.
Be aware of possible floods and falling rocks
during and after storms.

Grand Canyon National Park Trip Planner 5

South Rim
Yavapai Point andGeology Museum
(No

bike
s)

Rim TraVisitor Center

il

m

)

0.7

mi

(1.1

km

)

1.

4m

i(

2.

3k

Throwing rocks hurts hikers.

Village
Bright Angel Trailhead
Hermits Rest
Route Transfer

Hopi
House
El Tovar
Kachina
Hotel
Lodge

Verkamp’s
VisitorCenterThunderbirdLodge
o n e-

one-wa
y
o

e-way

d.

MaswikLodge

ikR
ndry d.
L au

Train
Depot

r.

)

GarageBackcountry

Grand Canyon
Visitor Center
Park Store
Lots 1–3

Ro a
pai
Yava

(RV parking,Lot 1)

Lot 4dMarket Plaza
WestboundPark Headquarters

Community
Library

Shrine of
the Ages
WestboundeShrine of the Ages
Eastboundr Ro
adMarketPlaza

Lot D Information Center(RV parking available)

KennelYavapai
Lodge

Lot A
Bank

Ce
nt e

Bus
Parking

Bike Rentals
and Cafe

McKee
Amphitheater

Way
Zuni

Ma

sw

y

es

l

D
Lot C
ay
w
op
o- Lo
Center Road

Vil tw
lag

R

wa

Mule
Barn

n

Village
East

ik
ob
(N

m Tr ai

s)
ike

t
Res
its
m
er

Ri

ob
(N

To
H

Village RouteTransfer

l
el
W
we
Ro

Lookout
StudioKolb
StudioMather Point

Trail of Time:
Geology exhibits on Rim Trail
between Yavapai Point andVerkamp’s Visitor Center

BrightAngel
LodgeSouth Ent
rance
Roa
d

Hermit Road accessible via
shuttle bus only March 1
to November 30.

Lot B
Post
OfficeMarket Plaza
Eastbound

Trailer Village

Market64

CamperServices

ClinicMatherCampground

A riz

Road

A

ri

z

on

a
a N

ut
So

al
ti o n

Sc

e ni

e
anc
ntr
hE

c Tr

ai l

64

o na

Na t

ion

al S

cen

iew
Driv
e

ic Tr

ail

d
Roa

ad

ic
in
Cl

To Desert View
22mi (35.4km)

De
ser
tV

Mather Campground

Map not to scale. For detailed maps see go.nps.gov/x4kiir

Ma r k e

t P

laz

a

Ro

Cen t e r

Parking and Shuttle Buses

Viewpoints

The South Rim experiences crowded conditions
throughout the year. Parking near the Grand
Canyon Visitor Center fills by 10 am during busy
periods. For surviving busy times see go.nps.gov/
gc_tips

Choose from dozens of beautiful andunique overlooks. Enjoy fantastic vistas
no matter the viewpoint.

Consider using the free shuttle bus system.
Running on natural gas, these fullyaccessible buses offer easy access to many
popular viewpoints and hiking and bicycling
opportunities along the South Rim.
go.nps.gov/gc_shuttleR

Find additional parking found in lots A–D. Find
shuttle bus stops in or near all parking areas.
go.nps.gov/gc_parkingoad

To Tusayan
6.7mi (10.8km)

64

HERMIT ROAD

Travel the 7-mile (11 km) Hermit Road.
Stop at nine scenic viewpoints andnumerous unnamed overlooks. Shuttle
buses and bicycles only March 1 toNovember 30.

Things to do
SEE THE PARK FILM

Grand Canyon: A Journey of Wonder, a
22-minute introductory film, repeats on
the hour and half-hour in Grand Canyon
Visitor Center.
ATTEND A FREE PARK RANGER PROGRAM

Daily programs help you discover more
about Grand Canyon. Check visitor
centers or go.nps.gov/gc_programs for a
full listing of park ranger programs.

DESERT VIEW DRIVE

Drive along 22 miles (35 km) for viewsof the Colorado River. Climb to the top
floor of Desert View Watchtower for a
360-degree view.

GO ON A HIKE

COLORADO RIVER VIEWSRIDE A BICYCLE

Look down on portions of theColorado River from viewpoints along
Hermit Road, Desert View Drive, andfrom Yavapai and Mather points.

See page 13 for rim and inner canyon day
hiking information. Use free shuttle buses
to access trails.

Journey through the forest and along parts ofthe canyon rim on the Greenway Trail. go.nps.
gov/1v2hmb

TusayanGrand Canyon National Park Trip Planner 6

South Rim Services and Facilities

Information
The National Park Service staffs several visitor
centers on the South Rim. Open every day of theyear; hours vary.
VILLAGEGrand Canyon Visitor Center
Plan your visit, and learn about Grand Canyon
through the free park film and exhibits. Offers
close access to Mather Point.
Backcountry Information Center
Learn about inner-canyon hiking; obtainbackcountry information and permits.
Kolb Studio
View exhibits in the restored 1904 Kolb brothers’
home and photography studio.
Verkamp’s Visitor Center
Visit one of the oldest buildings in the Village andexplore more than 100 years of community history.
Yavapai Geology Museum
Find answers to your questions with 3D maps andexhibits about the geologic story you see throughthe windows.
DESERT VIEW

Desert View Watchtower
Inspired by ancient pueblos, this Mary Jane Colterbuilding offers spectacular views of Grand Canyon
and the Painted Desert.
Tusayan Museum and Ruin
Look into the past and present day lives of thriving
American Indian communities. Located 3 miles(4.8 km) west of Desert View.

Camping

Lodging

Desert View Campground (NPS)$12/night; no hookups. Maximum vehicle length:
30 feet (9.1 m). Open mid-April to mid-Octoberon a first-come, first-served basis; no reservations.
Located 22 miles (35 km) east of the Village.

Reservations should be made well in advance as
facilities tend to be full for much of the year. Offseason rates available.
Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts
Offers accommodations at Yavapai Lodge.
877-404-4611
visitgrandcanyon.com

IN THE PARK

Mather Campground (NPS)$18/night; no hookups; dump station available.
Maximum vehicle length: 30 feet (9.1 m). Open
year-round; reservations strongly recommendedApril through October. Operates first-come, firstserved from the end of November to early March.
877-444-6777
recreation.gov
Trailer Village (Delaware North Companies)
Pull-through sites with hookups. Reservations
recommended. Open year-round.
877-404-4611
visitgrandcanyon.com
OUTSIDE THE PARK, TUSAYAN, ARIZONACamper Village (Private)
Hookups, coin-operated showers, laundry,
propane, dump station, and store; openyear-round.
928-638-2887
grandcanyoncampervillage.com
Ten-X Campground (Kaibab National Forest)
No hookups or showers. Most individual sites firstcome, first-served. Some individual and all groupsites available by reservation. Open May throughSeptember.
Reservations: 877-444-6777 orrecreation.gov
Information: 928-638-2443

IN THE PARK

Xanterra Parks & Resorts
Offers accommodations at El Tovar Hotel andBright Angel, Kachina, Maswik, and Thunderbird,
lodges.
888-297-2757
grandcanyonlodges.com
OUTSIDE THE PARK IN TUSAYAN, ARIZONABest Western Grand Canyon Squire Inn
800-622-6966
grandcanyonsquire.com
Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel
800-995-2521; pets ok
grandcanyonplaza.com
The Grand Hotel
888-634-7263
grandcanyongrandhotel.com
Holiday Inn Express
928-638-3000
gcanyon.com
Red Feather Lodge
800-538-2345; pets ok
redfeatherlodge.com
7 Mile Lodge
928-638-2291; no reservations

Other Services
The Village features a variety of services, including
restaurants, gift shops, post office, bank, general
store, garage, kennel, laundry, showers, taxi, andmore. go.nps.gov/o2ib4w
Tusayan, Arizona, offers additional restaurants,
gift shops, groceries, and a gas station.

Grand Canyon National Park Trip Planner 7

North Rim
2 Miles

Approximate scale
foreground area only

To Kaibab National Forest
KAIBABB A SIN

5.

North Rim

O

I
AR

No

3.3k

Roosevelt Point

m)

CA
NY

Tra ON
il

A

N

Y

O

WALHALLAN

5040ft
1537m

EL

PT
T

Manzanita
Point

H

BR

IG

Obi Point
7928ft2417m

Cottonwood
4000ft1220m

Francois Matthes
Point
8020ft2445m

NATCHICANYONCap e F i nal Tr a i lWalhalla Overlook

NORTH RIM VISITOR CENTER

Explore exhibits, talk to a park ranger, andvisit the bookstore operated by the Grand
Canyon Association.
BACKCOUNTRY INFORMATION CENTER

Located in the Administrative Building,learn about inner-canyon hiking and obtainbackcountry information and permits forovernight hikes.

Cape Final
7916ft2413m

Cape RoyalOTTOMAN
THEATERTo Phantom Ranch

Less visited than the South Rim, the North
Rim offers quiet canyon views. North Rim
facilities are open mid-May to mid-October.

N

Atoko Point
8400ft2561m

7998ft2438m

Thor Temple
6741ft2055m

Information

YO

DE S

A

SE

AN

P L AT E A U

GLA

AN

P C

WAL HALL ACRoaring Springs

TR

NA

Tritle
Peak

mi (2

i
Br

ab
ib

E

14.5

EA

PR

Ka INGS

h

TH

k

W
NK O

S

rt

8255ft Bright
2516m AngelPoint

Oza Butte
8066ft2549m

NGNorth Rim
Visitor Center

Widforss Point
7900ft2403m

Uncle Jim Point
8336 ft
2541 m

R

O

U

el C
re
e

s

Trail

Transept Trail

Tiyo Point
7766ft2367m

8480ft
2585m

gh
tA
ng

ON
NY

Uncle Jim
Trail

fors

Wid

Greenland
Lake

Vista Encantada

TL

ET

CA

Unpaved roads
may be impassable
when wet.

Patric

n

Ke

Trail

Bourke Point
6542ft1995m

8803ft2684m

km

k TrailFour-wheel driveor high-clearance
vehicles recommended.

Point Imperialkm)

i (4.2

2.6m

7
8.

i(

4m

o na

To Point Sublime
17.8mi (28.6km)

P L AT E A U)

A ri z

THE

67

G

0

To North Entrance Station
and Jacob Lake

2 Kilometers

0

N

North

Things to Do

Driving Viewpoints

Discover Grand Canyon's hidden secrets.
See the current list of park ranger programs
at the North Rim Visitor Center.
go.nps.gov/gc_activities

Travel 11 miles (18 km) from the visitor
center to view Mount Hayden and Marble
Canyon along this beautiful 20-minute drive
each way.

ENJOY THE VISTASCAPE ROYAL

View the canyon from Grand Canyon
Lodge, trails along the rim, or the scenic
drives on the Walhalla Plateau leading toPoint Imperial and Cape Royal.

Drive 23 miles (37 km) from the visitor
center to explore Angels Window andancestral Puebloan ruins at Walhalla Glades.
Allow plenty of time to enjoy this 45-minutedrive each way.

ATTEND A FREE PARK RANGER PROGRAM

POINT IMPERIAL

GO ON A HIKE

See page 13 for rim and inner canyon day
hiking information.
RIDE A BICYCLE

Note: Vehicles longer than 30 feet (9 m)
not recommended on the roads to Point
Imperial and Cape Royal.

Permitted on all roads unless posted;prohibited on all trails, except the Bridle
and Arizona trails.

Grand Canyon National Park Trip Planner 8

North Rim Services and Facilities

Camping

Lodging

Food and Beverage

North Rim Campground (NPS)$18–$25/night. No hookups; dump station
available. Stays limited to seven days per
season. Open May 15 to October 31. Campgroundfills most nights; advanced reservations strongly
recommended.
877-444-6777
recreation.gov

Grand Canyon Lodge
Make reservations with Forever Resorts; books
well in advance. Check the lodge for same day
availability. Open May 15 to October 15.
877-386-4383
grandcanyonforever.com

Grand Canyon Lodge Dining Room
Offers a view of the canyon; reservations fordinner recommended; open daily.

OUTSIDE THE PARK

Roughrider Saloon
In the Grand Canyon Lodge complex; open daily.

IN THE PARKOUTSIDE THE PARK

DeMotte Campground (US Forest Service)
18 miles (28 km) north of North Rim. $20/night;
no hookups or reservations. Open May 15 to
October 15.
Reservations for half the sites: 877-444-6777 orrecreation.gov
Information: 928-643-7395
fs.usda.gov
Jacob Lake Campground (US Forest Service)
45 miles (75 km) north of North Rim. $20/night;
no hookups. Open May 15 to October 15.
Reservations for camp site: 877-444-6777 orrecreation.gov
Information: 928-643-7395
fs.usda.gov

IN THE PARK

Kaibab Lodge
Located 18 miles (30 km) north of North Rim;
open May 15 to October 15 and includes a
restaurant and store.
928-638-2389
kaibablodge.com
Jacob Lake Inn
Located 45 miles (75 km) north of North Rim in
Jacob Lake, Arizona; open year-round. Includes
a restaurant, store, and gas station with pay atpump available 24 hours daily. Propane available.
928-643-7232
jacoblake.com

IN THE PARK

Deli in the Pines
In the Grand Canyon Lodge complex; open daily.

Coffee Shop
Located in the Roughrider Saloon; offers coffee,
bagels, and baked goods in the morning and light
fare, appetizers, and cocktails later in the day.
Chuckwagon Buffet
Located in the Grand Canyon Lodge. Purchasean all-you-can eat or a one-time-through ticket
and take your dinner from the auditorium to theveranda.

Other Services
The North Rim offers a variety of other services
including fuel, garage, laundry, showers, post
office, and more. go.nps.gov/o2ib4w

Kaibab Camper Village (Private)
Located 0.25 mile (0.5 km) south ofJacob Lake on Arizona Highway 67. Open May 15
to October 15; full hookups available.
928-643-7804
928-526-0924, during the off-season
kaibabcampervillage.com

Grand Canyon National Park Trip Planner 9

Tours and Trips
Air Tours

Mule Trips

Bus Tours

All scenic air tours originate from Grand
Canyon Airport in Tusayan, Arizona, outside
the South Rim of the park. Companies offer
both fixed-wing and helicopter tours daily.

Mule trips make daily excursions andovernight trips into the canyon.
For information visit

FIXED-WING

SOUTH RIM

Grand Canyon Airlines
866-235-9422
grandcanyonairlines.com

Xanterra Parks & Resorts
303-297-2757 or 888-297-2757
grandcanyonlodges.com

Daily South Rim tours to Hermits Rest andDesert View, as well as sunrise and sunset
tours. Tour guides explain history andgeology while you relax and enjoy canyon
views. Wheelchair-accessible coaches
available by prior arrangement.

Westwind Air Service
888-869-0866
westwindairservice.com

NORTH RIMHELICOPTERGrand Canyon Helicopters855-326-9617
grandcanyonhelicopter.com
Maverick Helicopters
888-261-4414
maverickhelicopter.com
Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters
888-635-7272
papillon.com

go.nps.gov/14jx4c

Xanterra Parks & Resorts
303-297-2757 or 888-297-2757
grandcanyonlodges.com

Grand Canyon Trail Rides
May 15 to October 15435-679-8665
canyonrides.com

Bicycle Rentals and Tours
Bicycle, wheelchair, and stroller rentals areavailable from March to January, weather
permitting. Rent a bicycle for a self-guided
tour of the rim or enjoy seasonally offered
guided bicycle tours. Closed Christmas Day.
Bright Angel Bicycles and Café928-638-3055
bikegrandcanyon.com

Grand Canyon National Park Trip Planner 10

River Adventures
For an ultimate adventure and a life-changing experience, raft the Colorado River through Grand Canyon.
Several options allow exploring the river on a diversity of time frames and budgets.
1-DAY COMMERCIAL TRIPS2 – 5 DAY LOWER GORGE RIVER TRIPS

Half-day and all-day smooth-water float
trips travel 15 river miles (24 km) from Glen
Canyon Dam to Lees Ferry, March 1 toNovember 30.

Private river trips can float 52 river miles(84 km) from Diamond Creek to Lake
Mead. Permits available starting one year inadvance on a first-come, first-served basis.
The National Park Service does not assess
permit fees for this section of the river, but
the Hualapai Tribe charges access fees forcrossing their reservation. For information
and applications visit: go.nps.gov/sxsoub

Glen Canyon Rafting Hospitality
800-992-8022
riveradventures.com/glen-canyon-float-trips/glencanyon-float-trip-experience/3 – 18 DAY COMMERCIAL TRIPS

The following companies offer three- to 19-day river trips through Grand Canyon, traveling
226 river miles (364 km) from Lees Ferry to Diamond Creek. Companies offer a variety of
trips in large motorized rafts, oared rafts, paddle rafts, and dories.
Aramark-Wilderness River Adventures
800-992-8022
riveradventures.com

Grand Canyon Expeditions Co.
800-544-2691
gcex.com

Arizona Raft Adventures
800-786-7238
azraft.com

Grand Canyon Whitewater
800-343-3121
grandcanyonwhitewater.com

Arizona River Runners
800-477-7238
raftarizona.com

Hatch River Expeditions
800-856-8966
hatchriverexpeditions.com

Canyon Explorations/
Canyon Expeditions
800-654-0723
canyonexplorations.com

O.A.R.S. Grand Canyon
800-346-6277
oars.com

Canyoneers, Inc.
800-525-0924
canyoneers.com
Colorado River & Trail Expeditions, Inc.
800-253-7328
crateinc.com
Grand Canyon Dories
800-346-6277
oars.com/grandcanyon/dories.html

Outdoors Unlimited
800-637-7238
outdoorsunlimited.com
Tour West800-435-9107
twriver.com
Western River Expeditions
866-904-1160
westernriver.com

12 – 25 DAY PRIVATE TRIPS

Since demand far exceeds supply, the park dispenses non-commercial permits to travelfrom Lees Ferry to Diamond Creek via a weighted lottery. Each February, a main lottery
assigns the majority of launch dates for the next year. Additional follow-up lotteriesoccur throughout the remainder of the year to re-assign cancelled trips. go.nps.gov/ig4s55
Grand Canyon National Park Trip Planner 11

Hiking Map
LegendNorth Kaibab Trailhead

North Rim

0.7mi (1.1km)

Coconino Overlook

Full services May 15 to October 15
located 1.7 miles (2.7 km) fromtrailhead

Toilets
Drinking Water: Year-Round
Always carry backup water purification.

1.3mi (2.1km)

Supai Tunnel
0.6mi (1.0km)

Ca

Redwall Bridge

ny

on

Ri

Drinking Water: Seasonalm

Always carry backup water purification.

North Rim
Visitor Center

2.1mi (3.4km)

Roaring Springs

Emergency Phone
CampgroundCamp in designated sites only; permit required

0.7mi (1.1km)

Ranger Station: Year-Round

Manzanita Rest Area

Ranger Station: SeasonalNorth

1.4mi (2.3km)

First Aid

Cottonwood Campground

7.2

mi

(11

.6k

m)

Ribbon Falls

Phantom Ranger Station
Bright Angel CampgroundRiver Resthouse
1.8mi (2.9km)

Plateau Point

Tip Off

1.5mi (2.4km)

Indian Garden
Campground

2.6mi (4.2km)

Do not swim in the Colorado
River! Dangerous currents andcold water temperatures canbe deadly.

1.4mi (2.3km)
3.2mi (5.2km)

Skeleton Point
1.5mi (2.4km)

1.5mi (2.4km)

1.5mi (2.4km)
0.5mi (0.8km)

Lower Tunnel

3-Mile Resthouse

Cedar Ridge

Can
yo
nR

im

1½-Mile Resthouse

Ooh Aah Point

0.8 mi (1.3km)

Upper Tunnel

0.2mi (0.3km) Bright Angel Trailhead

0.6mi (1.0km)

Grand Canyon
Visitor Center

0.9mi (1.4km)

South Kaibab Trailhead

South Rim

Services available year-round

South Kaibab Trailhead closed to private
vehicles. Access only via free shuttle bus.

Grand Canyon National Park Trip Planner 12

Day Hiking

Hiking in Grand Canyon creates lifechanging experiences and lasting memories.
Proper planning ensures good hiking
memories. See page 14 for hiking tips.

Hiking to the Colorado River and back in
one day is dangerous and not recommended.
Summer heat occasionally causes fatalities.
In winter, cold temperatures and slippery
trails can cause accidents and hypothermia.

If you desire an overnight hike see
pages 15–16 and contact the Backcountry
Information Center for permits.

South Rim

Destination

DistanceTime
Round Trip Round Trip

Elevation
ChangeNotes

Follows the rim for
13 miles (21 km)

Your choice

15 minutes to allday

200 feet
60 m

Mostly paved,
except dirt fromMonument Creek
Vista east to
Powell Point

1 ½-Mile Resthouse

3 miles
4.8 km

2 – 4 hours

2,112 feet
644 m

Toilets
Water
May – October

3-Mile Resthouse

6 miles
9.6 km

4 – 6 hours

2,112 feet
644 m

Toilets
Water
May– October

Indian Garden

9.2 miles
14.8 km

6 – 9 hours

3,060 feet
933 m

Water year-roundToilets

Trail begins south of Yaki Point at the South Kaibab
Trailhead; you must ride the free shuttle bus to thetrailhead. Best views for a relatively short and steep
hike, but no water. Upper portion of trail subject tostrong afternoon sun with little or no shade. Signs
identifying turn-around spots may not be in place.

Ooh Ahh Point

1.8 miles
2.9 km1 – 2 hours

600 feet
180 m

No waterFirst view east

Cedar Ridge

3 miles
4.8 km

2 – 4 hours

1,140 feet
347 m

No waterToilets

Skeleton Point

6 miles
9.6 km

4 – 6 hours

2,040 feet
622 m

No water
Hitching rail

North Rim

Destination

DistanceTime
Round Trip Round Trip

Elevation
ChangeNotes

Bright Angel Point

0.5 miles
0.8 km30 minutes

200 feet
60 m

No water

Widforss Point

9.6 miles
15.5 km

6 hours

200 feet
60 m

No water
Self-guiding trail
brochure available
at trailhead

Coconino Overlook

1.4 miles
2.3 km1 – 2 hours

800 feet
245 m

No water
Expansive view

Supai Tunnel

4 miles
6.4 km

3 – 4 hours

1,450 feet
445 m

Water
May–October

Rim Trail
Mostly flat; many sections suitable for wheelchairs.
Easy walks and quiet views. Follows the rim from
Hermits Rest east to South Kaibab Trailhead. Beginfrom any viewpoint and use the free shuttle buses
to customize your trip; see the South Rim Pocket
Map for route information.

Bright Angel Trail
This popular, steep trail into the canyon begins
west of Bright Angel Lodge. Upper portion
provides some afternoon shade. Water available
year-round at Indian Garden, subject to breaks
in the pipeline.

South Kaibab Trail

Bright Angel Point
A short walk on a paved rim trail leads to aspectacular view of the canyon. Trail begins at thelog shelter in the parking area by the visitor centeror at the porch behind Grand Canyon Lodge. Trailnot wheelchair accessible.

Widforss Trail
Even a short walk along this rim trail blending
forest and canyon scenery can be very satisfying.
Take the dirt road 0.25 miles (0.4 km) south of theroad to Cape Royal for one mile (1.6 km) to thetrailhead.

North Kaibab Trail
The trailhead is two miles (3 km) north of Grand
Canyon Lodge. This steep trail begins in the forest,
but descends quickly into the canyon. Mules may
be encountered. In the spring, trail opening may
be delayed for repairs.

Grand Canyon National Park Trip Planner 13

Hiking Tips

Prepare a Day Pack With:

Danger!

Hike Smart

Pack at least two liters of water dependingon hike intensity and duration. Always
bring a water treatment method in case ofpipeline breaks or repair work.

Hiking to the river and back in one dayis never recommended due to extreme
weather, long distances, and a near 5,000foot (1,500 m) elevation change each way.

Keys to a successful hike include
k nowledge, preparation, and a goodFOOD

HEALTH RISKS

Salty snacks and high-calorie meal(s).

Familiarize yourself with the symptoms
and treatment for heat-related illnesses,
hypothermia, dehydration, and electrolyte
imbalances.

WATER

FIRST AID KIT

Include prescription medications, blistercare, duct tape, and pocket knife.

DAY HIKES TO THE RIVER

Know your route, including trail quality andwater resources.
FLASHLIGHT OR HEADLAMP

Include spare batteries; you may end up
hiking in the dark unexpectedly. Cell
phones may not provide adequate light andwill run out of power.
SUN PROTECTION

Sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, andsunglasses.
COMMUNICATION

Yelling, a whistle, signal mirrors, and cell
phones—while service is limited, phones
can be helpful.
EMERGENCY SHELTER

A lightweight tarp provides shade andshelter.

plan. Grand Canyon is not the place for
spontaneity. Always check weather and trail
conditions before you hike.
EAT AND DRINKSnack every time you drink water or
sports drink.
REST

OVEREXERTION
MAP OR TRAIL GUIDE

PLAN

People often have overly ambitious plans
and fail to pace and take care of themselves.
If you feel unwell, you must rest. Remember
it takes twice as long to hike up as it does tohike down.
NO SWIMMINGThe Colorado River is fast, wide, and cold
(46°F / 8°C) year-round. Do not swim in theriver—you will perish!
DO NOT THROW ROCKS

Rocks or other objects tossed over the edge
or dislodged by taking shortcuts can injure
hikers and wildlife below.

Sit down, prop your legs up, and take a
10-minute break at least once every hour.
If you do not feel well, rest until you
feel better.
LEAVE NO TRACE

Day hikers can leave quite a mark in thecanyon—literally. Write a postcard to yourfriends instead of writing on walls. Take yourtrash back out with you, including toilet
paper. Do not feed the wildlife, and guard
your food from food-habituated animals.
Stay together, follow your plan, and know
where and how to seek help.

Hiking Safety Information
SUMMER

go.nps.gov/iopezu
WINTER

go.nps.gov/1fx2nh

CORRECT GEAR

Layer clothing to protect yourself from theweather. Wear broken-in hiking shoes withgood soles. Bring hiking poles to lessen theimpact on your joints.

Grand Canyon National Park Trip Planner 14

Backpacking

Backcountry Information Centers
Contact
Mail:

Email:

Grand Canyon Permits Office
National Park Service
1824 S. Thompson St., Suite 201
Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 USA
grca_bic@nps.gov

Fax:

928-638-2125

Tel:

928-638-7875; answered
8 am – 5 pm Mountain Standard Time,
Monday to Friday

SOUTH RIMNORTH RIM

Open daily
8 am – noon and 1 – 5 pm
Year-round

Open daily
8 am – noon and 1 – 5 pm
Mid-May to mid-October
Located in the Administration and Backcountry
OfficeBackcountry information:
go.nps.gov/1lvc55

Do I Need a Permit?

Permit Cost

Grand Canyon National Park requires
permits for all overnight backcountry
camping including:• hiking• horseback riding• cross-country ski trips• off-river hikes by river trip members• camping at rim sites other thandeveloped campgrounds$10 per permit plus $8 per person or stock
animal per night camped below the rim and$8 per group per night camped above therim. Denied requests will not incur a charge.

Day hiking, day horseback riding, river
trips, mule trips, and overnight stays indormitories or cabins at Phantom Ranch
do not need a backcountry permit.

Backcountry permits do not include park
entrance fees and once submitted cannot
be refunded. Permits cancelled at least fourdays in advance will receive a hiker credit(minus a $10 cancellation charge), valid for
one year.

How to Apply
Obtain all overnight backcountry permits
through the Backcountry Information
Center. The park only accepts fax, mail, orin-person requests; telephone and email
requests are not accepted.

Grand Canyon National Park Trip Planner 15

When to Apply

Use Areas

The furthest in advance permit requests are considered by the
Backcountry Information Center is the first of the month, fourmonths prior to the proposed start month.

Grand Canyon National Park divides the
backcountry into use areas, ranging fromseveral hundred to several thousand acres.
Each use area has an overnight capacity
based on the size of the area, the numberof suitable campsites, the area’s ecologicalsensitivity, its management zoning, and its
history. For a list of use areas and additional
information visit go.nps.gov/whgm99

The park begins accepting these earliest consideration requests
starting about 10 days before the first of the month that is fourmonths prior to the proposed start month. All earliest consideration
requests received by 5 pm mountain standard time on the first of themonth are randomly ordered for processing. Once this is completed
all later requests are considered in the order received.
Apply early! Popular use areas/campsites fill up the first week of thefirst month they become available for permit requests.
Verbal in-person permit requests are only considered for start dates
one to three months out.
Written requests are not accepted for permits with proposed
start dates less than 21 days out. Only in-person requests will beconsidered within this time frame.

Permit Responses
Grand Canyon National Park responds to all written requests via US
mail only. Please allow at least three weeks for processing. The park
issues a permit and mails it to the trip leader when space is available
and all fee requirements are met. If you have been denied a permit
through the mail, you may want to consider day hikes or attempt toobtain a last minute, walk-up permit in person at the Backcountry
Information Center.

Last Minute Permit for Corridor Campgrounds
A limited number of last minute walk-up permits are available atthe South Rim and/or North Rim Backcountry Information Centerfor Corridor Campgrounds (Indian Garden, Bright Angel, andCottonwood Campgrounds). These last minute permits are issued
in person only, are for one or two consecutive nights, and cannot bepurchased more than one day prior to the start of a hike.

Length of Stay
Camping in the Bright Angel, Indian
Garden, Cottonwood, Hermit, Monument,
Horseshoe Mesa, and Tapeats use areas islimited to two nights (consecutive or nonconsecutive) per campsite or campgroundper hike. One exception is made to thisrule: from November 15 to February 28,
up to four nights will be allowed in BrightAngel, Indian Garden, or Cottonwood
campgrounds. In use areas other than theseven listed above, trips are limited to a
maximum of seven nights per use area;
however, overall trip lengths are not limited.

Group SizeGroups are restricted to 11 or fewer people.
More permits are available for small groups(one to six people) than for large groups(seven to 11 people). Limiting the sizeof your group increases the chances ofobtaining a permit. Do not obtain multiple
permits for the same night for the same
campground or use area or all permits will
be void.

For hike
dates during
the month of:Submit written
request starting:

Requests received
by 5 pm MST on
this day get earliest
consideration:

In-person
verbal requests
accepted on orafter:

January

August 20

September 1

October 1

February

September 20

October 1

November 1

March

October 20

November 1

December 1

April

November 20

December 1

January 1

May

December 20

January 1

February 1

June

January 20

February 1

March 1

July

February 20

March 1

April 1

AugustMarch 20

April 1

May 1

September

April 20

May 1

June 1

October

May 20June 1

July 1

NovemberJune 20

July 1

August 1

DecemberJuly 20

August 1

September 1

Grand Canyon National Park Trip Planner 16

Get Involved
Teachers

FIELD TRIPS, CLASSROOM RANGERS, DISTANCELEARNING, AND TEACHER WORKSHOPS

Using Grand Canyon as a teaching
tool, park rangers conduct
curriculum-based field trips, in-classpresentations, and live, two-way video
distance learning programs for grades
K–12. Students engage in real-world
exploration of concepts related togeology, ecology, and human history.
928-638-7931
nps.gov/grca/learn/education

University Students
GRAND CANYON SEMESTERGrand Canyon National Park partners
with Northern Arizona University
and Prescott College to offer a unique,semester-long program. Grand Canyon
Semester immerses students in a placebased learning experience using Grand
Canyon as a classroom and laboratory.
Classroom academics combinewith field opportunities to create an
unparalleled learning environment.

Volunteer

WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE DURING YOUR
STAY? VOLUNTEER AT GRAND CANYON!

You can help Grand Canyon in a variety ofways, from enhancing visitor services tosharing your specialized expertise to help
protect and preserve park resources.
Visit volunteer.gov to learn about current
volunteer opportunities in Grand Canyon
National Park.
VEGETATIONWork with the National Park Service’svegetation program to restore native plantcommunities and protect the ecologicalintegrity of Grand Canyon National Park.
Contact the vegetation program volunteer
coordinator at 928-638-7753 for
information about potential opportunities
and accommodations.

Junior Ranger
Grand Canyon National Park and over 250
national parks offer a free Junior Ranger
Program. At Grand Canyon, ages four andolder can pick up a Junior Ranger booklet
at any National Park Service visitor center.
Parents, consider making a great memory
and become a Junior Ranger with yourchild; there is no age limit! Available yearround at Phantom Ranch, Indian Garden,
and the South Rim; available on the North
Rim in the summer only.
TO PARTICIPATE

Attend a free park ranger program.
Complete four activities for your age group.
Bring your completed booklet back to any
Grand Canyon visitor center to receive anofficial Junior Ranger certificate and badge.

nau.edu/Honors/GCS/prescott.edu/academics/certifications/a-grandcanyon-semester.php

Grand Canyon National Park Trip Planner 17

Outside the National Park
Kaibab National Forest

Havasupai Indian Reservation

Surrounding both South and North rims,
discover unique experiences in national
forests.

Havasupai tribal lands include a large tributary canyon on the south side of the Colorado
River, approximately 190 miles (310 km) west of the Village. The reservation lies outside theboundaries of Grand Canyon National Park and is administered by the Tribe. Access theVillage of Supai by an 8-mile (13 km) hike or horse ride. To obtain a hiking permit or makereservations at the lodge at Supai:

fs.usda.gov/main/kaibab/home
SOUTH RIMNORTH RIM

Tusayan Ranger District
176 Lincoln Log Loop
PO Box 3088
Grand Canyon,
Arizona 86023 USA
928-638-2443

North Kaibab Ranger
District
430 South Main Street
PO Box 248
Fredonia, Arizona
86022 USA928-643-7395

928-448-2121 Tourist Office928-441-2111 Lodging
theofficialhavasupaitribe.com

Photo courtesy of U.S. Forest Service,
Southwestern Region, Kaibab National Forest

The Skywalk at Grand Canyon West
Located west of Grand Canyon National Park, this glass walkway
protrudes over the rim on the Hualapai Indian Reservation. The
Skywalk is a Hualapai tribal business located 250 miles (400 km)
from the South Rim, or 90 miles (145 km) from Las Vegas, Nevada.
For information or to make reservations:888-868-9378 or 928-769-2636
grandcanyonwest.com

Photo courtesy of Hualapai Tourism

Grand Canyon National Park Trip Planner 18

Park Partners

Be a Part of Something GrandYou can make a difference at Grand
Canyon National Park!

With your help, the Grand Canyon
Conservancy (GCC) supports an impressive
variety of projects and programs that help
ensure all visitors enjoy the awe-inspiring
wonder of Grand Canyon.
As the park’s official nonprofit partner, GCC
cooperates with the National Park Service tooperate bookstores in seven locations in thepark. Bookstore purchases help fund new
exhibits, scientific research, trail restoration,
wildlife monitoring, ecological restoration,
support for the arts, Junior Ranger andeducation programs, and historic building
preservation.

DISCOVER THE PARK WITH THE GRAND CANYONFIELD INSTITUTE

From hiking and backpacking to yoga
and photography, you can participate ineducation classes throughout the park.
Call 866-471-4435 or visit
grandcanyon.org/fieldinstitute
TAKE GRAND CANYON HOME WITH YOU

Join the Grand Canyon Conservancy
today. Members receive exclusive
benefits and discounts. For information,
visit a GCC bookstore, call toll-free
800-858-2808, or visit grandcanyon.org

Bright Angel Bicycles rents bicycles andserves food near Grand Canyon Visitor
Center.

Canyon Trail Rides provides North Rim
visitors with mule trips into the canyon.

Delaware North Companies Parks &Resorts provides services at Desert View,
and operates Yavapai Lodge, Trailer Village,
and Canyon Village Market.

Forever Resorts operates the Grand Canyon
Lodge, shops, and restaurants on the North
Rim.

Grand Canyon Railway serves the city ofWilliams, Arizona, and the Village on theSouth Rim.

Xanterra Parks & Resorts provides lodging,
dining, transportation services, and shops
at Grand Canyon’s South Rim.

11/19

Grand Canyon National Park Trip Planner 19