BLUE ROCK ‒ Not many people celebrate their 40th birthday with a grueling descent into one of the world's deepest canyons trek into the mouth of the Grand Canyon and back up "They don't call it grand for nothing," Elli laughed the two started at sunrise on the national park's South Kaibab Trail "What we did was we went from the south rim (and) we hiked down to the river and then back up to the south rim," Elli explained It's only the first level of canyon hiking The women's rim-to-rim hike still turned into a 16-hour commitment The hike covers about 23 miles and involves an elevation change of more than 10,000 feet "We experienced a lot of different weather conditions," Elli noted You kind of felt like you're about to get blown off the side of a 100-foot drop." The temperatures started rising as they reached the river a campground and hotel at the bottom of the canyon was closed because of an ongoing waterline project but they had to turn around and go back up regardless "We were really questioning what we were going to do at that point because we were way behind schedule," Elli revealed "We had anticipated that the hike was going to take us about 12 hours." They had only done a third of the total mileage around the six hour point but they pushed onward "We didn't really have an option because otherwise you're sleeping outside in the cold," Elli continued They took Tonto Trail to the popular Bright Angel Trail and used its flatter path and many switchbacks on the ascent "When we got to the Bright Angel Trail is when it started to get dark the steepest part that we had to trek back up we had to do with headlamps which was pretty harrowing," Elli admitted It was almost midnight by the time they crawled back out of the canyon It was harder than we anticipated," she said Elli and Audrey found themselves with sore calves but they also picked up life lessons somewhere in the middle of the approximate 20-mile hike use your brain while you're doing it," Elli noted "Your body is capable of pushing through a lot but you have to listen to your body and listen to your brain and you think that you've gone through the steps to prepare for them but sometimes you have to call an audible." They were tested by the hike's physical aspect and grateful for the mental and emotional support they received their mothers who were remotely watching their locations through AllTrails It was just kind of the pinnacle of when you turn 40 you realize how much support you've had to get you where you are," Elli expressed Felt like we left a lot in the canyon and Mother Nature definitely tried us that day." "You're stronger than you think you are," Audrey chimed in "And always take more water than you think you need" Hiking the Grand Canyon was something Elli wanted to do for years Her birthday was a good chance and the main reason for the two's adventure that also included five other national parks: Arches because we were ruined after the Grand Canyon," Elli said the duo was ardently against another Grand Canyon adventure but they had been forewarned by a hiking Facebook group: It'll get under your skin it's going to take you a while to process it That canyon will call you to do it again," she said That hard no had softened into a hard maybe about a week after the hike They started discussing what they might do differently if they did it again "I think I would wait till Phantom Ranch reopens it wouldn't be that bad because you wouldn't be that tired We would start a little earlier and maybe catch sunrise part way down." Their next adventure could very well be elsewhere in the United States "There's one in Hawaii that we might want to do in a national park there," Elli said "There's just so much beauty to see even in our own country We're definitely looking for other hikes." More: MVL football stars reunited at the North-South All-Star games. Here's who stood out. Shawn Digity is a reporter for the Zanesville Times Recorder. He can be emailed at sdigity@gannett.com or found on X at @ShawnDigityZTR Map of the Canyon Rim Trail Phase III Project The Los Alamos County Public Works Department, in collaboration with the Transportation Board, is inviting the community to participate in a public input meeting focused on the Canyon Rim Trail Phase III Project. The meeting is 5:30 p.m. Thursday, May 1 in Council Chambers at the Municipal Building. A Zoom link is also available for virtual attendance: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81357060773 The project is at 60 percent design completion with 90 percent completion expected by the end of May The Phase III extension of the Canyon Rim Trail will stretch from its current endpoint at Knecht Street following the canyon rim (connecting Smith’s to Natural Grocers) This meeting will provide an opportunity for community members to share their thoughts and feedback on the project as it progresses The community’s input is valuable in shaping the final design and ensuring it meets the needs of the community Anyone unable to attend the public meeting may submit comment by email to lacpw@lacnm.us through May 17 Direct questions to the Los Alamos County Public Works Department at 505.662.8150 Copyright © 2012-2025 The Los Alamos Daily Post is the Official Newspaper of Record in Los Alamos County This Site and all information contained here including graphs and graphics is the property of the Los Alamos Daily Post Permission to reprint in whole or in part is hereby granted provided that the Los Alamos Daily Post and author/photographer are properly cited columnists and other contributors do not necessarily reflect the views of the Los Alamos Daily Post The Los Alamos Daily Post newspaper was founded Feb The North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park will open on Thursday to mark the official start of the 2025 season Grand Canyon Lodge and Grand Canyon Trail Rides will also commence their 2025 seasonal operations on this date Grand Canyon Conservancy bookstore and the Backcountry Information Center will open at 8 a.m Rangers will be available daily from 10 a.m.to 4 p.m and Park Ranger Programs at the Roaring Springs Overlook Kiosk through October 15 The lodge dining room will be open for breakfast lunch and dinner with reservations required for dinner service The last day of the 2025 season for most commercial services will be October 15 The Bright Angel Point Trail on the North Rim leading to Bright Angel Point will be closed for construction for the entirety of the 2025 season The trail will be closed to all pedestrian traffic as National Park Service (NPS) personnel replace asphalt This closure is necessary for the protection of staff and visiting public during an extensive repair effort to the Bright Angel Point Trail Overnight lodging reservations for North Rim facilities may be made by contacting Aramark Destinations at 877- 386-4383 or by visiting their website at grandcanyonnorth.com. For information on Grand Canyon Trail Rides, please call 435-679-8665 or visit their website at www.canyonrides.com The North Rim will be open for day use until November 30 or until the first major snowstorm if prior to that date Download the NPS app to navigate the parks on the go Be one of the first to try our new activity feed Toughen up to find total solitude on this 46-mile journey through a remote The National Park Service’s least-visited unit Alaska’s Aniakchak National Monument and Preserve “Probably fewer than 20,” says my companion Chris Hansen who’s leading a volunteer trail-mapping trip in the area “Not just anyone comes all the way out here,” Harlan told me on the Jeep ride in I have one: find a spectacular trip I don’t have to share with day-hikers I don’t want to see a soul beyond the group I came here with On some trips I even enjoy sharing the trail with strangers But I’ve been shut out of permits and joined the rush for campsites all over the Northwest and all that hubbub just intensifies my occasional craving for real escape So this time I’m looking for something wilder A little piece of the universe just for me—well I’m not relying on permits or quotas or an early jump on a first-come So if finding it means tackling the West Owyhee Canyon’s arduous approach and braving its many obstacles—icy potholes It took a three-hour drive from Boise to our rendezvous point with Corie at an abandoned highway gas station then 90 minutes of turtling over 4WD tracks one hand on the wheel and the other on a GPS to reach this point where the hiking route plunges from rim to river it hits me: Getting here was the easy part an 800-mile route across the central and southeastern parts of the state but I wouldn’t exactly call what we’re traveling a “trail.” There are no blazes or signs not even a footpath worn into the canyon floor We splash through a few more easy river crossings Willows gather in tight formations across our path forcing us to crash through the thickets like clumsy cattle I remind myself that these bushy barriers are part of why this canyon sees so few footsteps—most casual hikers balk at this kind of thing I quickly develop a technique of holding my trekking poles outstretched to guard my face from the whiplashing strands but that doesn’t stop my forearms from getting scratched and bloody Just when we’ve got the hang of busting through the willows I’m more concerned about the “swimmers,” places where the canyon steepens and narrows just as the river forms pools deep enough to swallow us we hit potholes that creep up to our knees then one that requires a brief full-body dunk But all are a wade in the park compared to the swimmer we reach around 4 p.m 50 feet long and already under shadow; goosebumps rise on my arms just looking at it holding on to a makeshift sleeping-pad raft with both hands and flutter-kicking his legs to get the first two packs across the pond in an impressive demonstration of guide-style cojones he jumps back in and does it again for the last two packs swimming as fast as I can—not that fast at all really—feeling my muscles squeezing around my lungs chilled to the core and squishing water from my socks with every step The relief is instant: I never knew that not being somewhere could feel so good I’m still sopping wet in a rapidly cooling canyon I jump up and down a few times until Honora drags herself out then the four of us scurry to a patch just down the canyon where a sheer charcoal-scribbled rock wall stands in full sun and plaster ourselves against it like lizards The basalt has the friendly warmth of clothes fresh from the dryer Turns out getting tough sometimes creates its own extra rewards We don’t even see any sign people were ever here—hard to believe given how the oh-wow moments are piling up There’s the perfect campsite we find on the first night—a wide sandy riverside beach with a killer view of the stars Or the stretch of narrows we reach on our second morning where the canyon’s wavy sides lean in to only 40 feet across We round riverbends to discover grand rock amphitheaters and watch the canyon walls rise to 400 feet in spots In between admiring the scenery and helping each other downclimb sketchy boulderfields our little band of explorers moves past the getting-to-know you pleasantries into the kind of stuff people normally reserve for the friends they first bonded with in the freshmen dorm The loneliness of the canyon forces us to rely on and trust each other but it also strips away all the social weirdness of meeting new people When we finally crest the canyon rim again late on day three this story—will let this cat out of the bag The West Little Owyhee Canyon is still too remote too well-guarded by tire-popping access roads to attract the crowds The swimmers and the bloody forearms will still be dealbreakers for most hikers I think this canyon will remain lonely for the few souls who will put up with all of that in search of a few days of solitude None (but contact ONDA for info on current road conditions and to report route conditions after your trip) April to June (expect high water) and September to October High-clearance mandatory; roads impassable when muddy and pack a spare tire and boards in case you get stuck The 30-mile thru-hike was the ideal trip for putting our backpacking and hiking candidates through the wringer AZ — A man's death is under investigation at the Grand Canyon after his body was located about 1,000 feet below the rim emergency crews at the Grand Canyon were notified of a report of a broken rock wall and scattered car parts east of Yavapai Geology Museum Crews with Grand Canyon aviation launched an aerial search and located a vehicle and a body A team of four responders made their way down and recovered the body identified as a man in his 20s from California The Coconino County Medical Examiner's Office is investigating Repairs to the damaged rock wall near the Yavapai Geology Museum are underway Officials say from now through February 26 visitors may expect a temporary bypass around the work area during the week Report a typo What you need to know to plan a rim-to-rim-to-rim trail running adventure Standing on the edge of the Grand Canyon for the first time It was the night before I was going to attempt to tackle my bucket-list goal of running across the Grand Canyon and back with two friends I was strong and fit and well-prepared for the adventure we were about to undertake yet my gut ached and my legs felt so noodly that I almost collapsed If you’ve never been to the Grand Canyon—or never been there with the intent of running across it—there’s an awesome yet rather precarious feeling that wells up from the pit of your stomach the moment you first look over the rim no matter if it’s the South Rim or the North Rim In front of you is a much-better-than-a-postcard view of something you might have only seen in postcards—or the internet equivalent namely someone else’s Instagram or Facebook pics Running the Grand Canyon has been a big bucket-list item for trail runners for years It’s one of the crown jewels of the National Park System and running 42 to 46 miles from rim-to-rim-to-rim—that’s across the entire mileage across the canyon and back—can be a truly epic and memorable experience Everyone has seen photos of the Grand Canyon—probably a lot of photos—but those fortunate to witness it in person will agree that none of those images—not a single one of them—come close to doing justice to the real thing 20 miles wide and more than a vertical mile deep it’s a sight to behold—one of the most awe-inspiring views I had ever absorbed It’s an amazing run and well worth the effort The canyon is called “Ongtupqa” in the Hopi language and is considered a holy site and a passageway to the afterlife The Hopi people are one of six tribes that have lived in or near the Canyon and consider it a sacred place I have run across the Grand Canyon seven times and each one has been a mystical adventure, fueled by both the stunning red rock aesthetics and a sense of feeling small in a very big, ancient and very hallowed place. One of those runs was a 21-mile one-way jaunt followed by a four-hour shuttle ride back but the other six times were full R2R2R endeavors—including one truly epic nighttime roundtrip between 7 P.M No matter how you plan to run the Grand Canyon your first look from the top of the rim is bound to make your heart race and your knees legs weak Whether starting on the South Rim or the North Rim most runners typically begin very early in the morning and run down into the canyon to the top of the opposite rim and back during the heat of the day—when temperatures can range from 80 to 100 degrees—and return to the place they started by early evening Even though there are several places to fill up with water in the bottom of the canyon the heat can be unbearable and the long downhills absolutely wreck your quads it’s about the trials of the miles—and doing your best to stay well-fueled and optimally hydrated (When shuttle buses are running or if you have someone who will drive you it’s possible to do a 21- to 23-mile one-way run from rim to rim but then you have to endure a four-hour drive to get back to where you started.) Running Rim to Rim to Rim across the Grand Canyon and back is no small task and shouldn’t be undertaken without a significant level of fitness trail running experience and knowledge of the route It’s not the 42 to 46 miles of running that is most difficult it’s the cumulative vertical gain and descent—and potentially the extreme heat—that can be most devastating you should have optimal marathon running fitness under your belt (Consider doing a four-month training buildup just as you would for a marathon goal race.) However specific training for ultra-distance runs—with numerous long runs in the four to eight-hour range with a lot of vertical gain and descent—would be much better Don’t skimp on training and think you can get through it The steep final ascents at the top of the North Rim and South Rim can be brutally hard even though the trail is mostly smooth and hard-packed The majority of runners start on the South Rim descending via the South Kaibab or Bright Angel Trail to the river and ascending out the North Kaibab Trail A rim-to-rim crossing is roughly 21 miles via the South Kaibab to North Kaibab trails with a 4,700-foot descent and roughly 5,700 feet of vertical gain and one way Double that for a full rim-to-rim-to-rim traverse In the first 6.7 miles down South Kaibab Trail (or the first 9 miles down Bright Angel) you’ll descend 4,700 feet and it will beat up your quads and that will lead to cumulative wear and tear later in the day The canyon floor on the north side of the Colorado River is generally flat (or gently sloped) and entirely runable for several miles but it becomes steeper in the last 4 miles on the way to the North Rim (and so steep in the final 2 miles that your running pace might slow to a ) It will take most fit and strong trail runners moving at a moderate pace (and stopping for necessary breaks) between roughly 5–7 hours to run one way from the South Rim to North Rim (or vice versa) Expect a Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim run to take 10–14 hours 4,400-foot climb back to the top of the South Rim after you’ve already run about 34 miles You probably won’t be running the ascent to the top of either rim but a consistent and powerful hiking cadence will do the trick The best times to run the Grand Canyon are mid-March through mid-May or from late September to late October when temperatures are somewhat cooler when temperatures can rise to 120 degrees in the bottom of the canyon weather can change frequently in any season cold and precipitation can have a major impact on your run Most of the route is exposed from one side to the other with only a few places offering shelter from rain and sun so you might be smarter to wear an over-the-back hydration system with a larger reservoir and refill every opportunity you get treat this like the ultra-distance run it is and make it a point to continually refuel bars or whatever you prefer for ingesting carbohydrates on the run it’s going to be a long day and you’ll need to refuel continually In addition to the usually gels and Tailwind packets I typically carry things I know I will find appetizing which is why my pack always includes a few PayDay bars and a couple of rolled up tortillas with peanut butter RELATED: Is Hut-to-Hut Running on Your Bucket List? It Should Be. you’ll want a well-cushioned pair that provide long-haul comfort low-profile outsole tread and a bit of sidewall and toe box protection Most of the route consists of relatively smooth terrain—flat rock surfaces or hard-packed dirt—so you don’t need a shoe that’s too aggressive you could get away with wearing road running shoes because there are numerous sections where you’ll appreciate the grip of a trail shoe’s tread pattern Hoka Challengers and Nike Ultraflys in recent years but that won’t do you any good if you’re bonking 12 miles away on the way up to the North Rim Some trail runners (like me) take collapsible trail running poles They can definitely help you on uphills and downhills but don’t take them if you’re not well-practiced in pole use on long trail runs RELATED: First Run—Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra The South Rim is about a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Phoenix and four and a half hours from Las Vegas You can stay in Grand Canyon Village inside the national park but there are also plenty of more affordable hotels and motels in Tusayan as well as plenty of stores to pick up last-minute provisions The North Rim is much more remote with fewer lodging options and only two general stores to buy groceries and provisions Contact: Grand Canyon Public Affairs Office Grand Canyon National Park will reopen the Bright Angel Trail and Campground for public use beginning May 15 Multiple inner canyon areas were closed last fall for Transcanyon Waterline project construction activities The Phantom Ranch Canteen and Lodge reopened on schedule between River Resthouse and the South Kaibab Trail junction between the Tonto Trail West junction to Plateau Point The Bright Angel Campground large group sites will remain closed until Oct 1 The small group campsites will remain open Additional construction needs to be completed during the May 15-September 30 closure period including maintenance and reinforcement work to Silver Bridge and installing new connecting water pipe and conduit New waterline and electrical lines along the Plateau Point and River Trails will also be excavated and installed Trail users will need to use Black Bridge through September 30 to cross the Colorado River Bright Angel Trail will be open from the South Rim trailhead to Pipe Creek Beach for use up and down the trail; there will be no access to Phantom Ranch via the River Trail Hikers may traverse between the Bright Angel Trail and the South Kaibab Trail via the Tonto Trail Commercial river trip exchanges will occur at Pipe Creek Beach and private river trip exchanges will occur at Boat Beach through May 14 Commercial and private river trip users may use either beach for exchanges beginning May 15 Rim-to-rim hikers may use a South to North Kaibab Trail route but due to the terrain and water availability hikers are strongly advised to bring additional water to prevent heat-related illnesses and take frequent rest breaks in the shade Hikers and backpackers attempting rigorous distances through the inner canyon are strongly encouraged to be self-reliant and to understand their own physical limitations to prevent emergency situations for themselves and responders Be aware that efforts to assist hikers may be delayed due to limited staff Waterline work is progressing in the Bright Angel Campground and between Havasupai Gardens and Tonto Trail West While Phantom Ranch Canteen and Lodge were closed fire hydrants and water filling stations in the area Construction will continue throughout the year on the South Rim and Phantom Ranch water treatment plants. More information about the Transcanyon Waterline and the status of the project is available here The construction areas and schedule are subject to change, and visitors are encouraged to check the park’s website for the current operational status Additional closures are expected this fall through spring of 2026 and information will be published as soon as the schedule is confirmed Park to drop to Stage 3 water restrictions following successful waterline repairs Contact: Grand Canyon Office of Communication Grand Canyon National Park will reopen hotels on the park’s South Rim beginning Thursday September 5 and transition down to Stage 3 water restrictions Park water utility crews successfully completed complex repairs to the Transcanyon Waterline late last week and resumed pumping water without identifying any new breaks The park will operate under Stage 3 water restrictions until the water storage tanks have adequate capacity to return to routine water conservation practices Grand Canyon National Park temporarily suspended overnight hotel accommodations on Aug Since July 8 the 12½ mile-long Transcanyon Waterline which supplies water from the canyon for use in the park Until highly complex repairs to the waterline were complete last week no water was being pumped to either the South or North Rim and the park’s water storage was quickly falling to unsustainable levels This transition to Stage 3 is a step toward normalizing park operations while ensuring the sustainable management of water resources We appreciate the cooperation and patience of our visitors and community members as we work to restore these vital visitor services Overnight accommodations: Beginning September 5 overnight accommodations will resume at park lodges This includes facilities operated by Xanterra as well as Delaware North’s Yavapai Lodge and Trailer Village and visitors can book stays at these locations Camping: Dry camping will still be permitted and water spigots at Mather Campground and Desert View Campground will remain turned off visitors can access water at the Mather Campground check-in kiosk Fire Restrictions: Fire restrictions will continue for the South Rim and campfires in South Rim and inner canyon areas to support water conservation efforts Ongoing Conservation Measures: Visitors and residents are encouraged to continue practicing water conservation:  Turn off faucets while shaving or brushing teeth  Following waterline repairs, potable water along the North Kaibab Trail, including at Phantom Ranch, is now available. Hikers should still prepare to bring or treat water if necessary. For current water status in the inner canyon, visit the park’s Critical Backcountry Updates page the Transcanyon Waterline provides potable water for facilities on the South Rim and inner canyon The waterline has exceeded its expected lifespan and experiences frequent failures which require expensive and continuous maintenance work to repair leaks there have been over 85 major breaks that have each disrupted water delivery The National Park Service recently started construction on a multi-year $208 million rehabilitation of the Transcanyon Waterline and upgrades to the associated water delivery system This crucial investment in infrastructure will ensure the park is able to meet water supply needs for millions of annual visitors and approximately 2,500 year-round residents The project is expected to be completed in 2027 The legislation provides the National Park Service with up to $1.3 billion a year for five years (fiscal years 2021-2025) to address extensive and long overdue maintenance and repair needs in national parks Its benefits extend beyond its funded projects because it also enables other funding sources to concentrate on additional projects I've been to the national park three times — and I know I'll travel back again and again throughout my life I've seen people pack themselves onto the edges of the canyon obstructing views of one of the most beautiful places in the country — but only on the South Rim I visited the South Rim once in 2022 and the North Rim twice — most recently in 2019 Each has surprised me with unique geographic features and diverse plant life — but the North Rim of the Grand Canyon amazed me the most With a higher elevation than the South Rim Unlike the more popular South Rim entrances open year-round the North Rim entrance is only accessible from May to October for overnight stays and through November for day trips (depending on the weather) The northern side of the national park lines Kaibab National Forest It's harder to reach the North Rim than the South Rim from other popular destinations in Arizona I expected to see some crowds at the North Rim since it is smaller than the South Rim and has only one entrance (the South Rim has two) I was thrilled to be wrong: the North Rim entrance had no line during my July 2019 visit Although some clusters of people were at viewpoints I rarely encountered other hikers on trails The North Rim has fewer lodging options than the South Rim but I found a free campsite outside the park that was unlike any other I'd been to I discovered it on freecampsites.net during my first trip to the North Rim in 2015 I was so impressed that I returned for my 2019 trip The site is in Kaibab National Forest's Locust Point area and borders the canyon's rim There are miles of rough forest roads on the way but I thought it was worth the trek when I pitched my tent about a yard away from the edge It's important to note that this is a remote campsite without bathrooms All that's provided is a fire pit right next to the edge — be careful not to fall My campsite was right off of Rainbow Rim Trail which goes from the North Rim to the South Rim While the South Rim is home to the canyon's most iconic scenes that are mostly red and brown The canyon beneath my campsite was filled with rich green trees that starkly contrasted the warm-toned canyon rocks Most of these hikes were entirely free of people during my stays Aside from whistles of birds and breezes through the tall trees I had truly detached experiences from the rest of the world The formation that stumped me most was this rock with a triangular hole near the top that towered over the others During most of my national park experiences crowds make it difficult to live in the moment I easily forgot about work and my busy lifestyle My mind was clear up there — and I can't wait to return the North Rim remains significantly less popular than the South Rim I can only hope for more isolated experiences in the future the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park will begin phasing into greater water restrictions and conservation measures due to a new break in the Transcanyon Waterline The North Rim will begin preliminary water conservation measures Until park staff repair the break and water in storage tanks reaches sustainable levels the following operational changes will be in effect: all existing conservation measures remain in place for the North and South Rim park staff and partners have been able to conserve water by serving water by request only adopting low water-use methods to clean hotel rooms and practicing basic water conservation measures at home and work Some ways residents and visitors can continue to help conserve water are to limit showers to five minutes or less turn the faucet off while shaving or brushing teeth Hikers in the backcountry should plan to carry all their water or methods to treat water For the most updated information on water availability in the backcountry visit the park’s Critical Backcountry Updates webpage here: https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/trail-closures.htm Contact: Joëlle Baird all existing conservation measures remain in place for the South Rim park staff and partners have been able to conserve water by practicing basic water conservation measures at home and work Hikers in the backcountry should plan to carry sufficient water or be prepared with methods to treat water. For the most updated information on water availability in the backcountry, visit the park’s Critical Backcountry Updates web page at https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/trail-closures.htm Contact: Grand Canyon Office of Communications Occurrence values are defined below. One or more Occurrence Tags may be associated with each Occurrence value Probably Present: High confidence species occurs in park but current Unconfirmed: Species is attributed to park but evidence is weak or absent Not In Park: Species is not known to occur in park Occurrence Tags Adjacent: Species is known to occur in areas near to or contiguous with park boundaries False Report: Species was reported to occur within the park but current evidence indicates the report was based on misidentification or other similar problem of error or interpretation Historical: Species' historical occurrence in park is documented Assigned based on judgment as opposed to determination based on age of the most recent evidence Native: Species naturally occurs in park or region Non-native: Species occurs on park lands as a result of deliberate or accidental human activities Unknown: Nativeness status is unknown or ambiguous The Checklist contains only those species that are designated as "present" or "probably present" in the park The Full List includes all the checklist species in addition to species that are unconfirmed or incorrectly reported as being found in the park The full list also contains species that are "in review" because their status in the park hasn't been fully determined Additional details about the status of each species is included in the full list The checklist will almost always contain fewer species than the full list Visit NPSpecies for more comprehensive information and advanced search capability. Have a suggestion or comment on this list? Let us know Golden-mantled ground squirrels (Spermophilus lateralis) are one of three squirrel species present in the park Their typical size is 9 to 12 inches (23 to 30 cm) These squirrels are reddish-tan colored with two lateral white and black stripes along its sides and woodlands and burrow in rock outcrops or underground Golden-mantled ground squirrels are omnivores and eat mostly of leaves Since these squirrels' frequent areas where humans are visitors should keep food stored properly and not feed any wildlife Mountain lion (Puma concolor) are the largest predators in Black Canyon They can also be known as pumas or cougars Mountain lions can weigh up to 200 pounds (91 kg) and be 8 feet (2.4 m) long Their fur is a tan-brown color with a white throat and hind legs make them agile jumpers are lethal hunters These animals are generally solitary, and males travel alone. They have large seasonal territories that move with migration of prey, such as elk and deer herds. Mountain lion sightings are rare, but visitors should be aware of safety guidelines around them Mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) are found throughout western North America They occur in a variety of habitats – from open deserts to mountains to developed urban areas Mule deer are slightly larger and heavier than white-tailed deer Adults can weigh up to 100 pounds (females) and 300 pounds (males) Males (bucks) have antlers used to fight other male competitors during mating season or the “rut.” mule deer are usually seen along trails in dense brushy areas Mule deer are particularly active at dawn and dusk Visitors should drive with caution and pay attention along roadways to avoid collisions with wildlife Animals live in different habitats from canyon rim to river and require specific lifestyles to be successful Learn about safely viewing wildlife in the park Best in Travel is here! Discover 2025’s destinations The 30 best countries, cities and regions to visit in 2025 Plan your trip with Elsewhere, by Lonely Planet See where a Lonely Planet Membership takes you Subscribe to our weekly newsletters to get the latest travel news, expert advice, and insider recommendations Explore the world with our detailed, insightful guidebooks Stay ahead of the curve with our guidebooks Uncover exciting new ways to explore iconic destinations Every month, we release new books into the wild Search Search Close search menu Explore Best in Travel 2024 Africa Close menu Countries Antarctica Antarctica Close menu Regions Asia Asia Close menu Countries Australia & the Pacific Australia & the Pacific Close menu Countries The Caribbean The Caribbean Close menu Countries Central America Central America Close menu Countries Europe Europe Close menu Countries Middle East Middle East Close menu Countries North America North America Close menu Countries South America South America Close menu Countries Grand Canyon National Park offers unforgettable views At every majestic red, brown and pink turn, Grand Canyon National Park wows with nature’s utmost beauty on full display The Grand Canyon is a global destination that offers more than 1.2 million acres of rocky It’s a paradise that offers travelers many sorts of excursions from family-centric outings to the most challenging of hikes Geologic forces have been molding this scenery for millions of years – and how you choose to take it all in, and which activities you opt for, will define your impression of this natural icon. The Arizona park features more than 130 trails lodges to cozy into and water activities to enjoy Visitors should be aware that the National Park System is facing staffing cuts that may lead to fewer available amenities. For more on what to expect, read this article on what to know before visiting U.S here are the top things to do in Grand Canyon National Park.  Planning tip: The train departs Williams at 9:30am daily and returns at 3:30pm (with the exception of November and December) This schedule leaves you approximately three hours and 45 minutes at the canyon from which you can see a bend in the Colorado River below Grand Canyon National Park is a piece of art in itself, true – yet there is an actual art studio within its limits, too. Situated on a cliff along the South Rim, Kolb Studio was once a family residence and photo studio the multi-level cabin boasts vintage photos from its namesakes – brothers Ellsworth and Emery Kolb – as well as paintings and portraits of folks exploring the canyon’s acreage in times past Planning tip: The South Rim of the park is open 24 hours a day Arrive early (or late) to avoid the crowds which opened in 2022; Charles Wittlesey-designed El Tovar; and the contemporary Detour: For more boating adventures, head 15 minutes north to Lake Powell, where operators like Lake Powell Boat Tours offer excursions There are few things more refreshing than a hearty splash of Colorado River water after a trek through an often blazing-hot canyon. Go for more than just a quick dip and make a day out of it with a rafting trip. April through October are the best months for rafting, and companies like Grand Canyon Expeditions know exactly where to take thrill seekers and tranquil floaters alike Planning tip: Beyond half-day and full-day adventures, three- to five-day rafting and boating trips can take you to the canyon all the way from Las Vegas. Advantage Grand Canyon is a comprehensive site that has a list of all your rafting choices Between driving add in a bike ride for a full canyon experience 13-mile route offers canyon vistas with every rotation of the pedals Bikes and e-bikes are now permitted in the park; if you left yours at home Bright Angel Bicycles is tucked near the rim in Grand Canyon Village the park’s shuttle-bus system has bike racks The shuttle stops almost every mile of the 13-mile stretch Planning tip: The North Rim is open May 15 through December 1 annually and is otherwise closed to vehicular traffic The East Entrance of Grand Canyon National Park offers access to the Desert View Watchtower a historic stone structure designed by architect Mary Colter you can enjoy panoramic views of the canyon and the Colorado River The watchtower also features a gift shop and interpretive exhibits Roosevelt Point is a lesser-known but spectacular viewpoint along the North Rim of the Grand Canyon panoramic views of the canyon’s vast expanse and the winding Colorado River below Roosevelt Point offers a tranquil atmosphere The overlook is particularly renowned for its spectacular sunrise and sunset views For a unique way to experience the Grand Canyon These guided tours descend into the canyon offering a different perspective of the rugged terrain Mule trips are available from the South Rim and can be a memorable way to reach Phantom Ranch or the Colorado River Planning tip: Mule trips are popular and often require reservations up to 13 months in advance The Trail of Time along the South Rim offers a self-guided walking tour that illustrates the geological history of the Grand Canyon Markers along the trail highlight significant rock layers and geological features providing a fascinating educational experience about the canyon’s formation Located near the Grand Canyon, Pipe Spring National Monument is home to several well-preserved historical structures that reflect early pioneer life in the American Southwest Visitors can explore its rustic interior and learn about the daily lives of those who lived and worked here the East Cabin adds depth to the broader history of the region the Grand Canyon is an excellent location for stargazing Join a ranger-led astronomy program or simply lay out a blanket to enjoy the night sky The park’s remote location minimizes light pollution offering spectacular views of the Milky Way Experience the historic charm of Bright Angel Lodge an iconic destination located on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon the lodge features a range of accommodations all designed to reflect the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area Guests can enjoy the lodge’s historic dining room which serves hearty meals with stunning canyon views Planning tip: The lodge is a historic site with limited rooms, so book well in advance, especially for the peak summer season. It also offers guided tours of its buildings; inquire about tour times at the front desk For an unparalleled thrill, visit the Grand Canyon Skywalk a stunning glass bridge extending 70 feet beyond the edge of the Grand Canyon’s West Rim Suspended 4,000 feet above the Colorado River the transparent floor and walls of the Skywalk allows visitors to look straight down into the canyon Planning tip: The Skywalk prohibits personal cameras so consider purchasing the professional photos taken on-site For a bird’s-eye view of Grand Canyon National Park, consider taking a helicopter tour. These tours provide a breathtaking perspective of the canyon’s vast expanse, highlighting landmarks such as Horseshoe Bend and the Colorado River from above. Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters offers tours over the South Rim, North Rim, and a combination of both, as well as excursions that explore the Las Vegas Strip. Planning tip: Helicopter tours offer various routes, so choose one that includes the landmarks you’re most interested in. Life zones are ecosystems found at different elevations Black Canyon is known for its vertical landscape; various life zones exist from the canyon rim Plants and animals within each life zone are adapted to its conditions This striking difference is mainly due to the amount of sunlight hitting the walls This determines the amount of freeze-thaw erosion occurring on each wall The continuous cycle of freezing and thawing water—expanding and contracting within the canyon walls—weakens rocks and causes them to break off or erode Since the south-facing wall receives more direct sunlight the north-facing wall is in shadow much of the day causing more freeze-thaw and increased erosion Roots help to break up rock and make soil as well Creeks and rivers create wetland areas as they weave their way through the arid landscape of the Colorado Plateau The Gunnison River has been cutting through the hard rock of the Black Canyon for about two million years its powerful waters continue to sculpt the smooth Precambrian rock Water loving plants cling to the edge of the river Rainbow and Brown trout inhabit the river's chilly waters Box elder (Negundo aceroides) and Narrow-leaf cottonwood (Populus angustifolia) crowd the riverbank Ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) tower over surrounding trees the Narrow-leaf cottonwood nears seeds that drift through the air and float downstream they must locate a sunny place that is wet with sand or gravel to continue their life cycle flies over shallow rapids or runs along the riverbed with half-open wings Presence of the North American river otter (Lontra canadensis) indicates a healthy river ecosystem Learn about the plant communities that thrive on the canyon rim Airborne pollutants can be deposited in the park by wet (rain or snow) and dry (dust The NPS ARD monitors nitrogen and sulfur deposition; either of these compounds in excess can be problematic for ecosystem health such as the canyon rim of Black Canyon and surrounding ridges can be more sensitive to nitrogen deposition Nitrogen and sulfur can also accumulate in rivers This contributes to acidification and negative impacts to aquatic life and adjacent ecosystems Clean air is critical for clear views of park scenery and historic landscapes Learn about park-specific air quality data Grand Canyon National Park officials say crews have recovered the body of a 20-year-old California man who apparently drove a vehicle off the South Rim Dispatchers received a report at about 8 a.m Monday of a broken rock wall and scattered car parts east of the Yavapai Geology Museum Officials launched an aerial search and eventually found the man’s body and the vehicle about a thousand feet below the rim They did not say what led to the incident and officials did not provide the man's name Four responders recovered the body and an investigation with the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office is underway A trail crew will repair the rock wall in the coming days Tree and shrub species are ecologically prevalent across Black Canyon they only make up roughly 14% of the confirmed and reported plant species in the park Contact: Grand Canyon Office of Communications On Sept. 13, Grand Canyon wildlife managers successfully relocated 100 bison from the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. All bison were transferred to the Intertribal Buffalo Council, which transported them to the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe in South Dakota park staff have removed 306 bison from the North Rim with 282 transferred to eight different American Indian tribes through an agreement with the Intertribal Buffalo Council the National Park Service (NPS) initiated a science-based planning process to manage bison overpopulation at Grand Canyon National Park using the best available science and working closely with the public park managers finalized the Initial Bison Herd Reduction Plan This plan aims to reduce the herd through live capture and transfer The 2024 summer population estimate for the herd was approximately 378 animals “This successful relocation is a testament to the collaborative efforts of all our partners,” said Grand Canyon Superintendent Ed Keable “It represents a significant step toward achieving our long-term goals for bison management and conservation.” The need to “scratch an itch” can sometimes lead to unexpected activities I have been to the south rim of the Grand Canyon several times I was mesmerized by the collage of indescribable colors and shapes that unfold in the canyon One feature always stood out to me — a distant trail that seemingly led to the end of a cliff Every time I saw this man-made path in the vastness of the Grand Canyon My wife Marcia and I set out to hike the trail in November 2020 Eight inches of snow at the rim created an icy trail that took too long to navigate We had just completed a rafting trip through the entire canyon Our friends Tom and Dana met us at the south rim for a few days of hiking The four of us set out on the 12-mile round-trip adventure down Bright Angel Trail it was 3,000 feet down and then 3,000 feet back up We enjoyed amazing views of the Colorado River when we reached Plateau Point It was incredible to look back at the rim and retrace our path We enjoyed the views and made it back up without incident Tom was curious about a group of women who were yelling and hugging each other They had just completed a rim-to-rim-to-rim hike in two days It took about 5 minutes for Tom to place such a hike very high on his bucket list How could we do a 24-mile hike across the Grand Canyon in one day How could we travel down 6,000 feet and up 5,000 feet in one day I began rationalizing we’d just done half the rim-to-rim hike without any training The four of us were in to pursue Tom’s hike Kim and Kynan agreed to shuttle the cars from the north to south rim An August shakedown hike on the hardest trail in Arkansas was a humbling experience High heat and humidity led to learning about equipment The shadow of doubt also made an appearance we were all gathered at the Grand Canyon north rim which was 40 degrees and bathed in a full moon during 4 a.m We each moved at our own pace in the darkness Tom and Dana took a detour to Ribbon Falls The rest of us moved along and made it to Phantom Ranch This stop at the bottom of the canyon was special for me My dad described hiking there 75 years prior with some high school friends They were not prepared and relied on the kindness of others for a meal and shelter that night His spirit was still there all those years later We rested there before starting the climb out Each of us had our own challenge on the way up Marcia didn’t like the mile-long hike in loose sand before starting the climb I relied on praying the rosary to help me up the trail Dana found the dead weight of a water-soaked shirt in her pack Tom was the hydration and nutrition specialist during the climb Chris wondered why he hadn’t heard anything about the steep corkscrew section of the trail Matthew knew his training plan and youth would eventually get him to the top It took 14-16 hours; some had to use headlamps for the last miles The sights seen along the way will remain with each of us When Tom said something about doing it again Human Condition submissions of 600 words or fewer may be emailed to features@thedvocate.com Stories will be kept on file and publication is not guaranteed News Tips:newstips@theadvocate.com Other questions:subscriberservices@theadvocate.com Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: Contact: Joelle Baird, Grand Canyon National Park Contact: Matt Switzer, Kaibab National Forest National Park Service and USDA Forest Service fire managers working together as the North Zone Interagency Fire Management Program anticipate initiating prescribed burns on the North Kaibab Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon and other conditions for opportunities to conduct burns safely and effectively into December Units targeted for burning are along Highway 67 near Jacob Lake and southwest of Forest Road 22 on the North Kaibab Ranger District and along Highway 67 near the North Rim Developed area and the Cape Royal area within Grand Canyon National Park Prescribed fire smoke from will be most visible during ignition operations and will likely gradually diminish after ignitions are completed Smoke may be visible along Highways 89A and 67 as well as from various locations on the North Rim and South Rim The Cape Royal Road will be closed from October 14 to 18 drivers using the Cape Royal Road are advised to proceed slowly with their headlights on avoid stopping in areas where fire personnel are working and follow all posted signs and directions from staff While no road closures are anticipated beyond these dates traffic control measures or one-way traffic may be implemented if smoke impacts create unsafe driving conditions Fire managers are working with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality- Smoke Management Division to reduce and mitigate potential smoke impacts Fire managers plan to treat a total of 25,371 acres on the North Kaibab Ranger District and 4,347 acres on Grand Canyon National Park’s North Rim with broadcast burning targeting light surface fuels and downed woody debris composed of logs These types of prescribed fires are important for removing forest floor fuels which are the primary carriers of fire during wildfire events Weather conditions and outlooks play a key role in the success of prescribed fire implementation and fire managers are working closely with National Weather Service forecasters prior to prescribed fire implementation Prescribed fires play an important role in decreasing risks to life Fire managers carefully plan prescribed fires initiating them only under environmental conditions that are favorable firefighter and visitor safety and to achieving the desired objectives Prescribed fire objectives include reducing accumulations of hazard fuels maintaining the natural role of fire in a fire- adapted ecosystem and protection of sensitive cultural and natural resources Plans for each burn unit contain a set of parameters which define the desired weather and fuel conditions under which a prescribed fire can be initiated fire managers will evaluate current conditions and will only begin ignition if the prescribed fire conditions are within allowable environmental parameters For additional information, visit the Kaibab National Forest fire management webpage and Grand Canyon National Park fire management webpage Visitors won’t be able to stay overnight in hotels at Grand Canyon National Park after a series of breaks in the only pipeline that serves the popular tourist destination The restrictions will run throughout the Labor Day holiday when hotels are near or at capacity Grand Canyon spokesperson Joelle Baird said Wednesday even for a water line that has experienced frequent failures The 12 1/2-mile-long (20-kilometer-long) Transcanyon Waterline supplies potable water for facilities on the South Rim and inner canyon Park officials say it has exceeded its expected lifespan there have been more than 85 major breaks that have each disrupted water delivery All park concessions will halt overnight accommodations Hotels located outside the park in the town of Tusayan said Wednesday in a comment on the park's Facebook page that she had “the trip of a lifetime” with her daughter planned for the weekend she told The Associated Press via a Facebook message that she was able to book a different hotel outside the park The park will remain open for use during the day as well as the North Rim’s Grand Canyon Lodge and other North Rim visitor services the park has faced challenges with its water supply and no water is currently being pumped to either the canyon’s south or north rims Park officials hope to restore full operational status for overnight guests on the South Rim as quickly as possible officials are asking residents and visitors to help conserve water by limiting showers to five minutes or less turning off faucets while shaving or brushing teeth Complicating restoration efforts is that the breaks occurred in a narrow part of the canyon known as “the box," an area susceptible to rock fall and with high temperatures this time of the year “It's definitely a challenging place to be and have a pipeline break on you," Baird said noting safety concerns for the crews tasked with repairing the damage The National Park Service recently started construction on a $208 million rehabilitation of the water line and upgrades to the associated water delivery system that is expected to be completed in 2027 The park wants to meet water supply needs for 6 million annual visitors and approximately 2,500 year-round residents Become an NPR sponsor — A 20-year-old North Carolina man died from a fall along the edge of the Grand Canyon Wednesday The Grand Canyon Regional Communications Center received a report of a fall near Pipe Creek Overlook along the Grand Canyon's South Rim shortly after 10:30 a.m Rangers said they responded to the scene and found the man but park rangers said Mejia was "near the edge of the rim" when he slipped and fell into the canyon The incident is being investigated as an accidental fall Rangers declined to release any other information about the incident they said visitors should always remain on designated trails and walkways and stay at least 6 feet from the edge of the canyon rim They add that visitors should also remain behind any railings and fences at overlooks like Pipe Creek The Grand Canyon retained its title as the most-visited national park in the West last year, drawing in 4.7 million visitors. However, it's also one of the nation's deadliest national parks, averaging 13.6 deaths per year over the past decade from falls and other causes, the Arizona Republic reports. The outlet noted that only Lake Mead National Recreation Area and Yosemite National Park averaged more deaths between mid-2013 and mid-2023 With elevations ranging from 7,000-8,000 feet and a dry climate Canyon Canyon park rangers said many visitors aren't prepared for the canyon's elements They also recommend that visitors wear and reapply sunblock often rest in shade in the summertime and take their time on hikes and overlooks to avoid fatigue because of the park's unique environment Grand Canyon rangers recovered the body of a 20-year-old man who fell 400 feet below the rim near the Pipe Creek Overlook The Grand Canyon Regional Communications Center received a report of a park visitor who fell from the rim around 10:40 a.m Rangers located the body of Abel Joseph Mejia about a quarter of a mile from the Pipe Creek Overlook According to the park service's news release Mejia accidentally fell when he was near the edge of the rim The National Park Service and the Coconino County Medical Examiner's Office were investigating the incident park staff encouraged visitors to stay on designated trails and walkways always keep a safe distance of at least six feet from the edge of the rim and stay behind railings and fences at overlooks the Grand Canyon Regional Communications Center received a report of a visitor who fell from the rim approximately ¼ mile west of Pipe Creek Overlook Responding rangers located the body of Abel Joseph Mejia Mejia was near the edge of the rim when he suffered an accidental fall An investigation into the incident is being conducted by the National Park Service and the Coconino County Medical Examiner's Office No additional information is available at this time Grand Canyon National Park staff encourage all visitors to have a safe visit by staying on designated trails and walkways always keeping a safe distance of at least six feet (2 m) from the edge of the rim and staying behind railings and fences at overlooks Please note: Conditions are subject to change depending on summer rains and flood events with its sun dappled cliffs and lively creek With the floodwaters continuing to rearrange the canyon bottom this is still a beautiful hike and offers unique perspective to the power of water For those who have hiked this trail before you will notice that a lot of the old landmarks are gone and it will be like exploring a new canyon For first timers it will almost seem like you are hiking a canyon in Utah Take the time to enjoy the incredible rock formations and relax in the peace and quiet that are becoming so hard to find in our modern world Frijoles Canyon is more susceptible to flash floods During the monsoon season it is best to be out of the canyon before the afternoon rain Here are some options of different ways to hike the Frijoles Canyon Trail: then drive another to Ponderosa Campground hike the either the Canyon or the Canyon rim trail to the Visitor Center then drive the car you left there back to Ponderosa Campground This is approximately an 8 (.2 miles more for the rim trail) mile hike Another option is to park at the Visitor Center hike up the Long Trail then along the Frijoles Rim Trail to Upper Crossing then down Frijoles Canyon back to the Visitor Center another way is to simply park at the Visitor Center The Narrows area is about 4 miles up canyon from the Visitor Center and is quite stunning so be sure not to turn back too soon the staff at the Visitor Center will be happy to help you They can also tell you about some of the other great hiking opportunities at Bandelier National Monument From day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips there is something for everyone who has the skills/mindset to meet the current challenges The City of Twin Falls has announced controlled burns along the Snake River Canyon rim this week Here’s what to expect and when the controlled burns will happen The City of Twin Falls announced in a News Flash on March 31st that controlled burns would happen near the Canyon Rim Trail that runs above the Snake River Canyon The burns will happen around sediment ponds to get rid of dead and overgrown vegetation that can affect proper drainage The controlled burns are scheduled for this Thursday Residents of Twin Falls will see smoke near the canyon during the burns specifically the northeast section of the canyon near the Meadow View area Twin Falls Fire Department will be on scene to ensure the controlled burns stay controlled and confined to the designated areas The controlled burns happen each year to make sure the sediment ponds can properly drain Water that flows into the drainage ponds from stormwater needs time to properly separate the organic materials from the water The materials settle on the bottom of the drainage ponds Sediment ponds allow sediment and organic material from stormwater to separate and settle on the pond floor before the water flows back into the Snake River - reducing the City's impact on the Snake River READ ALSO: Shoshone Falls Closed in Twin Falls For Yearly Cleaning Twin Falls residents should also be aware of construction on Eastland Drive that begins today and expect reduced speed limits Attention residents: expect smoke near Meadow View as Twin Falls conducts controlled burns to maintain sediment ponds and improve stormwater management.\nRead More The City of Twin Falls announced in a News Flash on March 31st that controlled burns would happen near the Canyon Rim Trail that runs above the Snake River Canyon The controlled burns happen each year to make sure the sediment ponds can properly drain READ ALSO: Shoshone Falls Closed in Twin Falls For Yearly Cleaning Twin Falls residents should also be aware of construction on Eastland Drive that begins today and expect reduced speed limits Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker — A man visiting Grand Canyon National Park died after falling from the rim of the popular tourist destination Wednesday officials received reports of a visitor who had fallen near Pipe Creek Overlook they located the body of the 20-year-old man below the rim The man has been identified as Abel Joseph Mejia, according to ABC 15 Park visitors are warned to stay on designated trails and walkways be prepared for your backcountry trip on the White Rim Road in Canyonlands National Park Helpful tips and advice provided in this video will help you plan your trip and Leave No Trace while out in these pristine areas The 100-mile White Rim Road loops around and below the Island in the Sky mesa top and provides expansive views of the surrounding area Four-wheel-drive trips usually take two to three days and mountain bike trips usually take three to four days All trips along the White Rim require a permit An overnight permit is required for all overnight trips along the White Rim demand for overnight permits frequently exceeds the number available If you plan to visit Canyonlands during these seasons you should make reservations well in advance All vehicles, motorbikes, and bicyclists must have a day-use permit for single day trips on the White Rim Overnight trips do not need an additional day-use permit Check out the campsite map below. You can also print an Island in the Sky district roads and trails map from our publications page Contact: Joëlle Baird This video presents an overview of bison management on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park the National Park Service will reduce the size of the overpopulated Kaibab Plateau bison herd through live capture and transfer to American Indian Tribes and lethal removal with Skilled Volunteers Grand Canyon National Park is reducing the size to under 200 in order to protect park resources—including vegetation and sacred archeologic sites—from the impacts of the bison Learn more: Contact: Joelle Baird Park staff successfully restored the pump at Havasupai Gardens that supplies water to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park and all water restrictions have been removed and businesses should consistently practice basic water conservation and be mindful of their water usage at all times Water conservation tips for visitors and residents include turning off the water while brushing teeth or shaving washing only full loads of dishes or laundry and reporting leaks and wasteful water use to appropriate staff Residents are also reminded to use reclaimed water for plants and washing vehicles and to not fill large-capacity water tanks in the park In the event of a future disruption in water delivery park managers will implement mandatory water restriction levels based on the volume of water in storage Some restrictions may include implementing low-water cleaning practices in hotel rooms closing public laundry and shower facilities and closing the RV dump/fill station at Camper Services The National Park Service would like to thank its partners residents and visitors for conserving water over the last several weeks and for their continued water conservation efforts Deaths have occurred as officials warn visitors that trail temperatures can soar to 120F – in the shade A man died while hiking the Grand Canyon over the weekend, bringing the number of deaths at the popular national park in Arizona over the last month to three Causes of death had not been publicly released for any of the hikers as of Wednesday. But the deaths occurred as much of the US this summer has dealt with extreme heat connected to the climate emergency which experts say the burning of fossil fuels has spurred – and as authorities at the Grand Canyon warn visitors that temperatures on the park’s trails can soar to 120F (48.9C) in the shade Grand Canyon officials said they were notified of the most recent death after about 2pm Sunday was found unresponsive about 100ft (30 meters) from the popular Bright Angel Trailhead that connects the south rim with the Colorado River at the bottom of the canyon The man – whose name was not immediately released – had started hiking toward the canyon rim after spending the previous night at the Havasupai Gardens campground Bystanders and first responders who were summoned to the scene began giving CPR to the man Sunday’s death bore some similarities to that of 69-year-old Scott Sims of Austin Officials said Sims died after becoming unresponsive on the Grand Canyon’s River Trail while attempting an overnight stay Meanwhile, 13 days before Sims’s death, a 41-year-old man was found unconscious on the Bright Angel trail. Authorities said bystanders and first responders were not able to resuscitate the man Federal data show about a dozen people die at the Grand Canyon annually The park averages about 5 million visitors a year the recent spate of hiker deaths at the Grand Canyon has caught the attention of those overseeing it Advisories in effect at the park on Wednesday asked visitors to avoid hiking between the hours of 10am and 5pm “to reduce heat risk” The national park service has also said that first responders may also take longer to arrive at emergencies because of limited staff volume of calls and “limited helicopter flying capability during periods of extreme heat or inclement weather” Furthermore, the same sweltering temperatures linked to the death of that motorcyclist have been a factor cited in multiple heat-related fatalities reported by authorities in Oregon in recent days.