I have been in the early stages of training and planning for a rim to rim hike at our beloved Grand Canyon, but the recent flooding has already affected those plans. Fortunately for me, my trip is not anytime soon. For anyone further along in the planning process, however, the National Park Service has released an important update on the trails, bridges, campgrounds and water stations affected by the flooding.
Trails
Currently Open
- Bright Angel Trail from the Bright Angel Trailhead to Havasupai Gardens and the intersection with the Tonto Trail
- Plateau Point Trail from the Tonto Trail junction to Plateau Point
- South Kaibab Trail from the South Kaibab Trailhead to the Tipoff
- Tonto Trail from the Tipoff to Havasupai Gardens
Currently Closed
The following areas are closed because of hazardous conditions caused by the August 29 flash flood:
- South Kaibab Trail below the Tipoff
- Bright Angel Trail below the intersection with the Tonto Trail
- River Trail east of the River Resthouse to the South Kaibab Trail junction
- Black Bridge
- Silver Bridge
- All of Phantom Ranch, including Bright Angel Campground, the Phantom Ranch Canteen and the cabins
- The entire North Kaibab Trail from the North Kaibab Trailhead to Phantom Ranch, including Cottonwood Campground
River trips are still permitted to conduct passenger exchanges at Pipe Creek Beach.
There is currently no estimated reopening date for these areas. Traditional rim to rim hiking is not possible while the entire North Kaibab Trail remains closed.
Check the latest Grand Canyon trail closures and hiking updates before making the trip.
Water Availability
The National Park Service advises that water availability can change suddenly because of breaks in the waterline. Hikers should carry enough water for their entire trip and bring a reliable method for treating water collected from natural sources.
As of September 6, all inner canyon water stations are turned off.
- North Rim: Water is OFF. Single bottles and gallon containers can be purchased at the General Store daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- North Kaibab Trailhead: Water OFF
- Supai Tunnel: Water OFF
- Manzanita Day Use Area: Water OFF
- Cottonwood Campground and Day Use Area: Water OFF
- Phantom Ranch Canteen: Water OFF
- Bright Angel Campground: Water OFF
- Phantom Delta Restroom: Water OFF
- Phantom Boat Beach: Water OFF
- Havasupai Gardens, formerly known as Indian Garden: Water OFF
- Bright Angel Trail Three Mile Resthouse: Water OFF
- Bright Angel Trail Mile and a Half Resthouse: Water OFF
- Bright Angel Trailhead: Water ON
- South Kaibab Trailhead: Water ON
Before Leaving Home
Conditions inside the Grand Canyon can change quickly, so a little planning can make a big difference.
- Check the latest Grand Canyon trail closures and hiking updates before leaving home.
- Make sure your entire planned route is open.
- Check the weather for both Grand Canyon Village and the inner canyon. Temperatures can be considerably warmer below the rim.
- Carry enough water for the entire hike. Do not depend on water being available inside the canyon.
- Bring a reliable water treatment method in case you need to collect water from a natural source. The National Park Service explains how to safely treat backcountry water.
- Pack salty snacks, extra food, sun protection and clothing appropriate for changing conditions.
- Download your route or carry a paper map because phone service cannot be trusted inside the canyon.
- Tell someone where you are going, which trail you are taking and when you expect to return.
- Start early and avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day. During summer conditions, the National Park Service advises against hiking between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
The most important thing to remember is simple: do not rely on water being available along the trail, and do not assume a familiar route is currently open.