Grand Canyon National Park - Things To Know Before You Come (U.S. National Park Service)

A mile-deep canyon (1.6 km) separates the park into South and North Rims.

The Grand Canyon of the Colorado River creates a barrier that bisects the park. Even though the average distance across the canyon is only 10 miles/ 16 km, be aware that it is a five-hour drive of 215 miles/ 346 km between the park's South Rim Village and the North Rim Village.

Most people visit Grand Canyon National Park's South Rim.

The SOUTH RIM is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. All visitor services: camping, lodging, and restaurants are available year round. Reservations are strongly recommended during the busy summer season. Because the South Rim is easier to get to, Day-use visitors should expect traffic congestion and parking problems, particularly in summer. The least crowded time is November through February. However, winter weather is a major consideration when planning a trip during these months.

A free shuttle bus system operates in the Grand Canyon Village area. This summer, buses also connect the Village to the gateway community of Tusayan (airport) and to Desert View, 24 miles/41km to the east. Make your visit easier and save fuel by parking your car and using the shuttle to get around. Make sure you stop at the park's visitor center at Canyon View Information Plaza, which are reached only by shuttle.

The South Rim of Grand Canyon averages 7000 feet/2134 m above sea level. Visitors with respiratory or heart problems may experience difficulties. Walking at this elevation can be strenuous.

The North Rim has a short season, is harder to get to, and is more wild and secluded.

NORTH RIM visitor services and facilities are only open from mid-May to mid-October. Lodging and camping are available at the canyon's North Rim from May 15 through mid-October . Reservations are strongly recommended. Additional facilities are available in the surrounding Kaibab National Forest, the Kaibab Lodge area, and Jacob Lake.

The North Rim is over 8000 feet/2438 m. Visitors with respiratory or heart problems may experience difficulties. Walking at this elevation can be strenuous.

During winter months, the road to the North Rim, Highway 67, is often closed due to snow. After the close of visitor facilities in mid-October, there may be a period when the North Rim is open for day use only. (before the snow comes) During this time there are no services or overnight facilities available inside the park. The road from Jacob Lake to the North Rim (Highway 67) is subject to closure due to snow with little or no notice during this interval and then remains closed until mid-May.

Lodging	Maps	Shuttle Busses	Guided Tours	Ranger Programs
Campgrounds	Food	Public Transport	Mule Trips	Visitor Centers
Goods/ Services	Permits	River Trips	Hiking	Sunrise/ Sunset

Grand Canyon is in a Remote Part of the Country:

Bring an extra set of car keys; it could be a long wait for a locksmith.
Film is available at the South Rim, but the closest camera repair is in Phoenix, AZ .
There is an automobile mechanic on the South Rim, but you may experience delays waiting for parts or have to be towed to Flagstaff.
Distances are deceiving in this part of the country. It may look like you can visit three parks in one day, but reality is often different.
Keep your gas tank full. The next gas station may be quite a distance down the road.
Carry water in your car, particularly during summer months.