Grand Canyon closures will affect both campers and trail hikers later this year. The Park Service earlier announced closures would be coming but have just released changes in those dates. It’s all part of upgrading of the Transcanyon Waterline, the primary source of fresh water in the Arizona park.
Newly published inner canyon closure dates
Here are the “updated” closure dates for the project:
- Bright Angel Campground, November 4, 2024, to May 14, 2025
- Bright Angel Trail north of Havasupai Gardens and the Silver Bridge that crosses the Colorado River, October 21, 2024, to May 14, 2025
- Plateau Point Trail from the Tonto Trail Junction north of Havasupai Gardens to Plateau Point, October 12, 2023, to May 14, 2025
The Park Service says these Grand Canyon closures are needed for the protection of staff and visiting public. It’s all part of an extensive transcanyon waterline construction effort along Bright Angel Trail.
Trail alternatives
Visitors can still use the upper portion of the Bright Angel Trail, from the South Rim to Havasupai Gardens, and the Tonto Trail during the October 2024 to May 2025 closure period. The South Kaibab Trail remains open for all hikers.
No hikers or other trail users will be allowed to pass through closure areas under any circumstances. The Park Service emphasizes the importance of always staying on designated trails. Visitors should not attempt to go over or around a closure.
Trail users should pay attention to the directions they get. These may come from park rangers, volunteers, construction flaggers, and signs posted along the trail.
The construction areas and schedule are subject to change. Visitors should check the park website for current operational status: Critical Backcountry Updates: Including Trail Closures and Restrictions – Grand Canyon National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
Source: Park Service news release
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Thank you, Russ and Tina! 🙂 I am betting that a few (several?) visitors will not pay attention to anything or anyone and suffer consequences of some type (e.g., fine, arrest, injury). They will prove once again that arrogant people are indistinguishable from stupid people. Sadly, there is a considerable number of both. 🙁 Thanks again, have a great day/afternoon/evening, safe travels, and safe stays! 🙂