Grand Canyon Is Open: What You Need To Know

Grand Canyon Government Shutdown Update – October 2025

The federal government shutdown that began October 1, 2025, has created uncertainty for travelers and park visitors across the U.S. In spite of funding lapses, Grand Canyon National Park remains open, with many services maintained by local partners and Grand Canyon Conservancy (GCC). Below is the current status, what’s open and closed, tips for visitors, and how to stay updated.

Is Grand Canyon Open During the Shutdown?

Yes — Grand Canyon is open to visitors even during the shutdown. While many National Park Service (NPS) staff are furloughed, essential public access points (roads, trails, lookouts) remain available. Operations in some areas are supported by Grand Canyon Conservancy and concessioners to maintain visitor access.

However, many park facilities and services are limited or closed due to staff reductions. Always check the latest updates before visiting.

What’s Open at Grand Canyon During the Shutdown?

• Park roads, lookouts, and trails
• Campgrounds
• Kolb Studio & Desert View Watchtower (GCC buildings)
• Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute & Residency Programs
• The Backcountry Information Center
• Commercial river trips
• Lodging, restaurants, food service, grocery stores
• Park shuttle bus operations

GCC Retail Stores (OPEN):

• Visitor Center Plaza: 8am–7pm
• Desert View Watchtower: 8am–6pm
• Yavapai Geology Museum: 8am–7pm
• Verkamp’s Visitor Center: 8am–6pm
• Kolb Studio: 8am–6pm

Things You Can Still Do

• Become a Junior Ranger: Pick up a book and get sworn in at GCC locations.
• Stamp Your National Park Passport: GCC stores have stamp stations available.
• Grab Maps & Info: Staff are on-site with guidance and trail updates.
• Sign-up for a Field Institute Tour: Get a behind-the-scenes tour of the historic Kolb Studio Residence, tour the South Rim Historic Village with an expert guide, or hike the Bright Angel Trail with one of our instructors.
• Attend a Residency Program: View public programming here.
• Shop with Purpose: All purchases directly support park preservation.

What’s Closed or Limited?

• South Rim Visitor Center
• NPS-operated buildings
• NPS ranger-led programs & tours
• Visitor centers & contact stations
• Entrance fees are not being collected

Learn more about our 5 South Rim retail locations (open daily!) here

Learn about Field Institute Day Trips here

Tips for Visitors During the Shutdown

With fewer resources available, every act of stewardship makes a difference. Please:

• Visit responsibly - With fewer National Park Service staff available, it’s crucial for visitors to help keep Grand Canyon safe and beautiful. Respect posted signage, trail rules, and closures.
• Leave No Trace - Pack out what you bring in, tread lightly on marked trails, and respect wildlife and sacred cultural sites.
• HIKE SMART - Know your limits and plan ahead. With reduced staff and fewer resources, make sure your plans account for current and forecasted weather conditions. Choose easy or moderate routes and don’t overestimate your hiking abilities.  
• Donate - One of the best ways visitors can support the park is by donating to Grand Canyon Conservancy, the official nonprofit partner of the park, which fills the gaps in federal funding to preserve and protect the canyon. With no entrance fees being currently collected, donor support is more important than ever!

Stay Updated

• Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest updates regarding events and happenings at Grand Canyon National Park.
• Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn and X to stay connected on day-to-day operations and receive timely updates.

GCC will continue to provide updates when they become available.