Grand Canyon Opens For Holiday Weekend

Rep. Thorpe Celebrates “Phased Reopening”

grand canyon view
Visitors relax at Grand Canyon Lodge on the North Rim of Grand Canyon. (Photo by Michael Quinn/National Park Service)

Grand Canyon – Grand Canyon National Park is increasing recreational access and services. Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim will be open May 22-25 for limited entry and recreational access.

“Just in time for summer vacation, Grand Canyon National Park is being reopened today for the enjoyment of Arizona families, tourists, and outdoor enthusiasts,” said Rep. Bob Thorpe. I applaud the National Park Service for its thoughtful phased plan to safely make our most spectacular natural wonder available to the public. I also encourage tourists to visit the many fun destinations in Camp Verde, Cottonwood, Sedona, Flagstaff and Williams on their way to the Grand Canyon.”

The South entrance will be open from 4-10 a.m. for visitors to enter the park. The entrance will close at 10 a.m. and visitors already inside the park can remain for day use access until sunset. Entrances fees should be paid at automated fee machines or by purchasing a pass in advance at third-party vendors or online.

Following guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state and local public health authorities, the following areas and services will be open for visitors:

  • Day hiking on inner canyon trails.
  • Limited food and beverage services at Market Plaza, Bright Angel Bicycles, El Tovar patio, and near hotels.
  • Bicycle and wheelchair rentals at Bright Angel Bicycles.
  • The Rim Trail and Greenway Trail system located outside of the residential area.
  • East Desert View Drive is open until Navajo Point, where vehicles will turnaround.

The following facilities and areas remain closed at this time:

  • The East entrance on the South Rim and the Desert View Watchtower area.
  • Visitor centers, museums, and shuttle buses.
  • Lodging, restaurants, campgrounds on the rim, camper services and trailer village.
  • Center Road and access through the South Rim residential housing area.
  • The Colorado River, North Rim and Tuweep area.
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