The Grand Canyon is more than a great chasm carved over millennia throughthe rocks of the Colorado Plateau. It is more than an awe-inspiring view. It ismore than a pleasuring ground for those who explore the roads, hike thetrails, or float the currents of the turbulent Colorado River.

This canyon is a gift that transcends what we experience. Its beauty and sizehumble us. Its timelessness provokes a comparison to our short existence. Its vast spaces offer solace from our hectic lives.

The Grand Canyon we visit today is a gift from past generations. Take time toenjoy this gift. Sit and watch the changing play of light and shadows. Wander

Ride the free shuttle busesTo make your stay at Grand Canyon National Parkless hectic and to reduce traffic congestion, use thefree shuttle buses. The shuttles operate from beforesunrise to after sunset, come by frequently, and thedrivers never get lost. Read the article on page 4 andthe map on pages 8–9 for more details.

The Guide South Rim: March 1–May 24, 2008Also available in Deutsch, Espanol, Français,

Italiano, ,

National Park ServiceU.S. Department of the Interior

Grand Canyon National ParkArizona

Grand Canyon

The Visitor Center is just south of Mather Point,but you cannot drive to the Visitor Center. Canyon View Information Plaza,including the new Visitor Center, was designed as the terminus for a mass-transit system that is not yet in operation. To get to the Visitor Center:

• Park Your Vehicle Parking lots are shown on the map on pages 8–9.

• Ride the Free Shuttle BusesShuttle bus routes are shown on the map on pages 8–9.or

• Park at Mather PointWalk the 300 yards (275 meters) to the Visitor Center.Accessibility shuttle available. See page 9.

Where’s the Visitor Center?

South Rim Map onpages 8–9 and 16

Inside:Ranger Programs . . . . . . .2–3Information Centers . . . . . .4Sunrise & Sunset Times . . . .4Geology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6Park News . . . . . . . .7,10–11Maps . . . . . . . . . .8–9,13,16Hiking . . . . . . . . . . . . .12–13Visitor Services . . . . . .14–15Desert View . . . . . . . . . . .16North Rim . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

What time is it?Most of Arizona, including GrandCanyon National Park, remains onMountain Standard Time year-round. Beginning March 9,Arizona is on the same time asCalifornia and Nevada and is onehour earlier than the NavajoReservation, Colorado, NewMexico, and Utah.

Emergency • 91124 hours-a-day dial 911 from any phone, 9-911 from hotel phones.

Welcome to Grand Canyon National Park

The National Park Service cares for special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage.

Thinking about hiking?Successful hikers:• Read and follow the suggestions and regulations on

pages 12–13.• Plan their hike before they start and go prepared.• Go slowly, rest often, and maintain the correct body

temperature.• Eat salty foods and drink water or sports drinks.

along a trail and feel the sunshine and wind on your face. Attend a rangerprogram. Follow the antics of ravens soaring above the rim. Listen for theroar of the rapids far below Pima Point. Savor a sunrise or sunset.

As the shadows lengthen across the spires and buttes, time passing into thedepths of the canyon, understand what this great chasm passes to us—a senseof humility born in the interconnections of all that is and a willingness to carefor this land. We have the responsibility to ensure that future generationshave the opportunity to form their own connections with Grand CanyonNational Park.

2 G R A N D C A N Y O N N A T I O N A L P A R K

April8:00 a.m. 3–4 hours Daily

May7:30 a.m. 3–4 hours Daily

9:30 a.m. 30–45 min. Daily

10:00 a.m. 30–45 min. Daily

10:30 a.m. 1 hour Daily

1:30 p.m. 30–45 min. Daily

2:30 p.m. 20–30 min. Daily

3:00 p.m. 30–45 min. Daily

3:30 p.m. 30–45 min. Daily

4:00 p.m. 30–45 min. Daily

March and April7:30 p.m. 1 hour Daily May8:00 p.m. 1 hour Daily

South Kaibab Trailhead

Bicycle rack at YavapaiObservation Station

Visitor Center at CanyonView Information Plaza

Patio on rim side of BrightAngel Lodge

Visitor Center at CanyonView Information Plaza

Bicycle rack at YavapaiObservation Station

Outside of Kolb Studio

Bicycle rack at YavapaiObservation Station

In front of Lookout Studionear Bright Angel Lodge(Climbing stairs may be involved ingetting to the program site.)

Shrine of the Ages audi-torium (parking lot A, nextto Park Headquarters)

Grand Canyon VillageActivity Location Time Duration Frequency

During your visit the National Park Service encourages you to participate in the programs listed below. All programs are free. Ranger Programs

Cedar Ridge Hike

With a ranger, descend 1140 feet (347m) below the rim on the unpaved South Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge to enjoy unparal-leled views from within the canyon. This strenuous 3-mile (5 km) round-trip hike is not recommended for people with heartor respiratory problems or difficulty walking. Sturdy footwear and 1–2 quarts (1–2 liters) of water per person are required.Clothing appropriate for the weather and snacks strongly recommended. Hikers cannot drive to the trailhead. Ride the freeVillage Route shuttle bus to Canyon View Information Plaza and cross the plaza to the Kaibab Trail Route shuttle stop. Allow45 minutes for total travel time. Program may be cancelled due to weather or trail conditions. No hikes May 6–8.

Colorado River Talk

Enjoy the grandeur and power of the Colorado River as you explore and discuss the river's role in Grand Canyon. Programmay include a short walk on a paved path. Parking may be limited; plan to arrive by the Village Route shuttle bus to theYavapai Observation Station stop. No talks May 6–8.

Introduction to Grand Canyon’s Geology

Why is the Grand Canyon so deep, wide, and grand? Why does it exist only here in the world? Come and participate in thisfascinating talk to learn how Grand Canyon was formed. Program may include a short walk on a paved path. Plan sufficienttime to arrive at the Visitor Center by the free Village Route shuttle bus. No programs May 6–8.

Fossil Walk: Remnant Impressions

Walk among brachiopods, sponges, and other marine creatures that thrived on this part of the continent 270 million yearsago, before the age of the dinosaurs. This easy 1/2-mile (0.8 km) one-way walk explores an exposed fossil bed along the rim.Parking may be limited; consider parking in Lots C, D, or E or riding the free Village Shuttle to the Bright Angel Lodge stop.

Ranger's Choice

Explore the world of Grand Canyon during this in-depth special program. Topics change daily; check at the Visitor Center forthe day's subject. Possible programs include nature walks, Native American culture, or pioneer history. Plan sufficient time toarrive at the Visitor Center by the free Village Route shuttle bus.

A Geo-Glimpse

Enjoy the new geology exhibits at Yavapai Observation Station and explore a selected aspect of the canyon's geology duringthese short talks. Talk may be moved inside during inclement weather. No programs May 6–8.

The Human Story

For thousands of years, humans have been part of Grand Canyon. Join park staff outside of Kolb Studio to take a look at thehistory of the South Rim area. Programs may include tours of Kolb Studio or walks around the village historic district. Parkingmay be limited; consider parking at Lots C or D or riding the free Village Route shuttle bus to the Train Depot stop. No programs May 6–8.

Nature Walk

Learn more about the complexity and diversity of nature with a short hike along the rim. Topics vary and may include: ani-mals and plants adapting to changing seasons, man's impact on nature, how nature inspires writers and poets, rare and endan-gered species, or Native American use of plants and animals. Parking may be limited; plan to arrive by the free Village Routeshuttle bus to the Yavapai Observation Station stop. No programs May 6–8.

Condor Talk: Wings over the Canyon

What highly endangered bird with a 9-foot wingspan is often spotted at Grand Canyon? The California condor! Learn aboutthese majestic birds and their reintroduction in northern Arizona in a talk on the canyon's rim. Parking is limited; considerparking at Lots C or D or riding the free Village Route shuttle bus to the Bright Angel stop. No programs May 6–8.

Evening Program

The perfect way to end your day at the Grand Canyon! Relax beneath the stars and enjoy a ranger presentation on a significantaspect of the canyon's fascinating natural or cultural history. For this evening's topic check the schedules posted around thepark. Arrive by walking, driving, or riding the free Village Shuttle Bus. No programs May 14 and 21.

This program given March 1–31 only

This program begins April 1

S P R I N G 2 0 0 8 V I S I T O R ’ S G U I D E 3

Full Moon Walks and Star Talks

During nights around the full moon and new moon, rangers will offer moon walks and star talks at the Mather Point overlook.Check bulletin boards at the visitor centers and campgrounds to see if these events are scheduled. Programs are presented3 days around the new moon and the full moon and begin 1 hour after sunset (See page 4 for moonphase dates and sunset times).

Spring Break Programs

Throughout the day at the Visitor Center at Canyon View Information Plaza rangers offer a variety of short programs on geology, culture, and the flora and fauna of Grand Canyon. Check the bulletin boards at the Visitor Center to see what is on themenu for today. Check park bulletin boards for locations, times, duration and frequency.

Additional Special Programs

As staffing permits, rangers will offer additional programs which may include Fossil Walks, Kolb Studio Tours, and condor pro-grams as staffing is available. Look for signs in the Village area or at the visitor centers to confirm times and availability.

Desert View—Tusayan Museum 3 miles (5 km) west of Desert View Point

Glimpses of the Past

Have you ever wondered how 800 years ago people found food, water, and shelter? Join a ranger to explore the remains of anancestral Puebloan village. Envision a thriving community in this harsh and demanding environment. This entails a journey on a 0.1-mile (0.2-km) flat, paved trail.

Phantom RanchRanger Programs

Programs are given daily at Phantom Ranch, reachable only by hiking or riding the mules to the bottom of the canyon. Talkscover a wide range of natural and cultural history topics. Upon arrival, check the Bright Angel Campground bulletin board or thePhantom Ranch Canteen for program locations and subjects. Programs begin March 6. No programs May 5–9.

See page 1 hour Seepage 4 page 4 for sunset for moontimes phase

dates

Varies Varies Varies

Varies Varies Asstaffingpermits

11:00 a.m. 30–45 min. Daily

1:30 p.m. 30–45 min. Daily

4:00 p.m. 45 min. Daily

7:30 p.m. 45 min. Daily

Mather Point

Locations vary

Locations vary

Tusayan Museum, 3 miles (5 km) west of Desert ViewPoint

Phantom Ranch, reachable only by hiking or mule ride

Special ProgramsActivity Location Time Duration Frequency

We hope that learning more about Grand Canyon National Park and its resources will lead to a greater appreciation of your national park. Many programs, except theEvening Program, are cancelled May 6–8 to allow our rangers to attend training.

Historic Kolb Studio Art ExhibitsMarch 6–30: Arts for Our Park—The Face of Our World

As residents of Grand Canyon National Park, localstudents from kindergarten through high school cele-brate National Youth Art Month by taking a fresh lookat the very special world in which they are privilegedto live. Admission is free.

April 10–May 15: Paint the Parks 100

Paint the Parks 100 is America's leading competitiondesigned to illustrate the beauty and significance ofAmerica's national parks. Paintings depict the diversetreasures-both natural and cultural that are preservedand protected by the National Park Service. Entriesare juried by a panel of nationally recognized arts pro-fessionals and the top 100 paintings tour the nation fora year. Admission is free.

These programs begin March 6

Archaeology Day at the Visitor Center Canyon View Information PlazaSaturday, March 22

People have lived in the Grand Canyon area for thousandsof years, learning to sustain themselves in a challengingenvironment. Presentations throughout the day exploresome of the activities of past peoples and how we learnabout them. You can make a pot, identify artifacts, orconstruct a replica split-twig figurine. Activities andpresentations are suitable for all ages.

March is Arizona's Archaeology Month.

Note: All children must be accompanied by an adult on all programs.

These programs are wheelchair accessible with assistance. Wheelchairs are availablefor loan at the Visitor Center at Canyon View Information Plaza. For programsmeeting at the Visitor Center, handicap access is by wheelchair or accessibility shut-tle from Mather Point parking lot.

All outdoor programs are subject to cancellation due to inclement weather or whenlightning danger is present.

These family-oriented programs are ideal for meeting the ranger program require-ment for the Grand Canyon’s Junior Ranger award. Any ranger program, however,will meet the requirement on page 2 of the Junior Ranger Activity Booklet.

The Canyon's Best BargainThe Shuttle SystemFor more than 30 years theNational Park Service has provideda free shuttle bus system on theSouth Rim. Visitors and residentshave made 80,000,000 boardings.Many of the buses use compressedor liquefied natural gas, a muchcleaner burning fuel. Some of thebuses have provisions forimproved accessibility. Riding theshuttles makes your stay moreenjoyable, while reducing pollution and decreasing traffic congestion.

How do I use the free shuttle buses?The map on pages 8–9 is the key. The map shows routes, stops, operatingtimes, and route lengths. Park your vehicle in one of the parking areas, pro-ceed to the nearest bus stop, and board the next bus. It is that simple. Thebuses come by every 15–30 minutes. There are no tickets to obtain, and youare free to get on and off at any stop. The routes are designed so you can rideto a stop, enjoy the view, shop at a gift store, or walk along the rim and thenhop on a later shuttle.

Where do the shuttles go?There are three shuttle routes. They do not overlap, although they intercon-nect. Buses are identified with a colored square near the boarding door.Hermits Rest Route (red) The western-most loop winds along the rim forseven miles to Hermits Rest, stopping at viewpoints along the way. Shuttle turns around at Hopi Point beginning April 1.

Village Route (blue) This loop connects the visitor center, lodging, restau-rants, gift shops, and campgrounds. It may be the best way to get to many ofthe ranger programs.Kaibab Trail Route (green) Leave from Canyon View Information Plaza andgo to the South Kaibab Trailhead and viewpoints along the rim.

See pages 8–9 for a map with routes, stops, and times.

Superintendent's GreetingSpring is a wonderful time to be at Grand Canyon. The days growlonger and warmer. Flowers showfirst at the bottom of the canyon andwork their way to the rims. Hikersenjoy the improving trail conditions.Take time to enjoy your visit.Wander along the paved Rim Trailand watch the light and shadows.Stop by Yavapai Observation Stationand use the new geology exhibits tounderstand the formation of the can-yon. Attend a ranger program. Take in a sunrise or sunset.

This spring is going to be a busy time on the South Rim as a number of projectsare under way. Construction at both the East and South Entrances may causebrief delays, but will result in shorter lines and quicker entry to the park. Youmay find portions of Hermit Road closed during your visit. The repaved road,improved overlook parking, and new multipurpose Greenway Trail will bene-fit future visits. The rehabilitation of Hermit Road continues into the fall.

In January, we celebrated the 100th anniversary of the designation of GrandCanyon National Monument by proclamation of President TheodoreRoosevelt. A few years earlier he had stood before a crowd on the rim andimplored them to” Keep this great wonder of nature as it now is . . . Keep it foryour children and your children's children and for all who come after you, asone of the great sights which every American, if he can travel at all, shouldsee.” Today we welcome travelers from all around the world to this greatwonder, but it is still our responsibility to preserve Grand Canyon for futuregenerations.

Steve Martin—Superintendent

4 G R A N D C A N Y O N N A T I O N A L P A R K

Canyon ViewInformation Plaza

Visit the visitor center and bookstore atCanyon View Information Plaza—onlyaccessible by free shuttle bus, a one-milewalk or bicycle ride from Market Plazaon the Greenway Trail, or a short walkfrom Mather Point. The Visitor Centeris open daily 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thebookstore is open daily 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. until April 14 and 8:00 a.m. to7:00 p.m. starting April 15. Outdoorexhibits may be viewed anytime.

&

Information Centers (see pages 2–3 for ranger programs at these locations)

Yavapai ObservationStation

How old is the canyon? How did itform? The new exhibits at YavapaiObservation Station answer theseand other geology questions. Thehistoric building, located one mile(1.6 km) east of Market Plaza, features expansive canyon views.The bookstore offers a variety ofmaterials about the area. Open daily8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Desert View Bookstore/Park Information

The Desert View Bookstore, locatedat Desert View Point near the park'seast entrance, offers a PassportStamp cancellation station, an excellent selection of publications,and memorabilia. Open daily 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Kolb Studio

Once the home and business of theKolb brothers, pioneering photo-graphers at Grand Canyon, thisbuilding has been restored. Visit thefree art exhibits in the auditorium,described on page 3, and shop in thebookstore. Kolb Studio is located inthe Village Historic District at theBright Angel trailhead. Open daily8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.to 7:00 p.m. beginning April 15.

Tusayan Museum

A visit to Tusayan Ruin and Museumprovides a look into the lives of athriving community as illustrated by its pottery, seashell bracelets, corncobs, and arrowheads. See2,000–4,000 year old original split-twig figurines. Art from today's tribesprovides a glimpse into their rich cultures. The museum, open daily 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., is located threemiles (five km) west of Desert View.Free admission.

Enjoying Grand Canyon

Sunrise SunsetDate Sunrise Sunset

March 9 6:47 a.m. 6:31 p.m.

March 16 6:37 a.m. 6:37 p.m.

March 23 6:27 a.m. 6:43 p.m.

March 30 6:17 a.m. 6:49 p.m.

April 6 6:07 a.m. 6:55 p.m.

April 13 5:57 a.m. 7:01 p.m.

April 20 5:48 a.m. 7:07 p.m.

April 27 5:40 a.m. 7:13 p.m.

May 4 5:32 a.m. 7:19 p.m.

May 11 5:26 a.m. 7:25 p.m.

May 18 5:20 a.m. 7:30 p.m.

May 25 5:16 a.m. 7:36 p.m.

Moon PhasesNew Full Moon

Moon Moon Rises

March 7March 21 6:59 p.m.

April 5April 20 7:49 p.m.

May 5May 19 7:41 p.m.

All times are MountainStandard Time.

S P R I N G 2 0 0 8 V I S I T O R ’ S G U I D E 5

Interagency Annual PassIf you are a frequent visitor to National ParkService or other federal agencysites that charge entrance fees,you may be interested in thenew America the Beautiful -National Parks and FederalRecreation Lands Pass. The$80.00 pass is valid for one yearfrom the time of first use. Five federal agencies—National ParkService, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Fish andWildlife Service, and U.S. Forest Service—participate in the pass.

The program also offers a lifetime senior pass ($10.00) for U.S. citizens 62 orover and a free access pass for citizens with permanent disabilities. Thosewho already have a Golden Age or Golden Access pass do not need to obtainthe new passes.

The interagency pass may be purchased at park entrance stations, GrandCanyon Association bookstores, or online at www.recreation.gov.

Let Wildlife Feed Themselves By keeping your distance,you let wildlife be wild.

Spring is a special but precarious time forwildlife. The long winter is coming to anend and new foods are growing. Manyanimals will soon be giving birth.

Enjoy wildlife from a safe distance. Whatis a safe distance? If the animal obviouslyknows you are there, you are too close.Seemingly tame squirrels, ravens, coy-otes, deer, and elk, accustomed tohuman handouts, can turn aggressive without warning. You could be harmed! If wildlife approaches you, back slowly away and give them space.

It is unlawful to approach, feed, or harass wildlife in any way. Violators may besubject to fines or imprisonment.

Pets must be on a leash at all times. Loose or feral pets often disturb or killwildlife or their newborns. Protective wildlife parents can be aggressive andcould harm you or your pet. Keep wildlife and your pets safe by observing theleash law.

Would You Like to Be a JuniorRanger?Grand Canyon National Park offers a free Junior Ranger program for children ages

4 and older.

To take part in the program, pick up a JuniorRanger booklet at the Visitor Center atCanyon View Information Plaza or TusayanMuseum information desk and complete theactivities listed for the appropriate age level.

Once completed (don’t forget attendance at oneor more ranger programs) bring the booklet back tothe Visitor Center at Canyon View Information Plaza orTusayan Museum to receive an official Junior Ranger certificate and badge.

Environmental Education

Class Field Trips and TeacherWorkshopsThe Environmental Education staff invites teachers and students to takeadvantage of our free educational resources. We offer nine ranger-led fieldtrip programs at the canyon covering geology, ecology, and history topics.Programs are designed for grades K–7, are curriculum based, and addressArizona academic standards. Advanced reservations are required. Theseprograms are popular, so contact the park as soon as possible to scheduleyour trip. Rangers may be available for pre-visit classroom presentations.

Free teacher workshops cover suggested pre- and post-visit activities, as wellas walk-throughs of the programs at the canyon. Park staff conducts work-shops several times each year. For more information or to make reservationsfor either a park visit or a teacher workshop call (928) 638-7662 or visitwww.nps.gov/grca/.

Use CautionNear the EdgeRock hopping outside the guardrails at Mather Point leads to atragic fall. A man dies after he fallswhile trying to get to a rock outcropfor a photograph.These tragedies are real. What wasto be a memorable vacation,becomes a nightmare for the fami-lies and friends of the victims.Such accidents are avoidable. Usecaution anytime you are at the rim.Do not go beyond barriers. Beaware of your footing and the con-dition of the ground surface you arestanding on.There are many beautiful views ofthe canyon that you can enjoy with-out putting yourself at risk. Havethe memorable trip you plannedand enjoy the canyon safely.

Enjoying Grand CanyonPersonalize Your Grand Canyon ExperienceIndividual interests, available time, and the weather can all influence a visit. The following list ofactivities is provided to assist you in personalizing your Grand Canyon experience. To locate placesmentioned below, refer to the maps on pages 8–9 and 16. An Accessibility Guide for visitors with limited mobility is also available at the Visitor Center at Canyon View Information Plaza and Park Headquarters.

Attend Free Ranger Programs • Listed on pages 2 and 3• Junior Ranger program described below

Visit Scenic Hermit Road • Ride the free shuttle from the Village Route Transfer Stop7 miles one-way. Allow at least 2 hours • Views of river at Hopi, Mohave, and Pima Pointsroundtrip. Road closed at Hopi Point • Visit Hermits Rest—historic landmark with view of riverbeginning April 1. • Closed to private vehicles. Ride the free shuttle buses.

Visit Scenic Desert View Drive • Tour by private vehicle or commercial bus25 miles one-way • Views of river at Moran Point, Lipan Point, Desert View

• May exit the park to the east—Cameron and Hwy. 89

Visit an Information Center or a • The park offers a variety of museums and information Museum centers that house exhibits and provide park information

• See adjacent page for more informationHiking at Grand Canyon:

- Walk Part of the Rim Trail • See map pages 8–9; Rim Trail described on page 12• Trail may be accessed at many locations along rim

- Day Hike into Grand Canyon • See pages 12–13 for information on trails and safety • It will take twice as long to hike up as it does to hike down • Do not attempt to hike to the river and back in one day

- Backpack Overnight in Grand • Permit and fees required (see page 13)Canyon • Inquire at Backcountry Information Center

(8:00 a.m.–12:00 noon and 1:00–5:00 p.m.)

6 G R A N D C A N Y O N N A T I O N A L P A R K

Park Science

Basic Answers to Your Geologic QuestionsHow old? The rocks exposed within Grand Canyon range from the fairly young to the fairly old (geologically speaking). Kaibab limestone, the caprock on the rims of the

canyon, formed 270 million years ago. The oldest rocks within the Inner Gorge at the bottom of Grand Canyon date to 1,840 million years ago. Forcomparison geologists currently set the age of Earth at 4,550 million years.

How new? While the rocks are ancient, the canyon is young. Geologists generally agree that canyon carving occurred over the last 5–6 million years—

a geologic blink of the eye.

Why here? Beginning about 70 million years ago, heat and pressure generated by two colliding tectonic plates induced mountain building in

western North America. An area known as the Colorado Plateau was raised more than 10,000 feet (3,000 m), but was spared mostof the deformation and alteration associated with the uplifting of strata. This high plateau, so critical to Grand Canyon's story, isa geological puzzle that researchers still seek to understand.

Why deep? Without the Colorado River, a perennial river in a desert environment, Grand Canyon would not exist. Water draining off thewestern slopes of the southern Rocky Mountains carried sand and gravel, cutting down through the layers of rock. Without

the uplift of the Colorado Plateau, there would not have been the thousands of feet of topography to sculpt. From YavapaiPoint on the South Rim to the Colorado River is a change of 4,600 feet (1,400 m), yet the river still flows 2,450 feet

(750 m) above sea level.

Why wide? The width results from the rock layers collapsing around the river and its tributaries combined with the

“headward erosion” of these side streams. Softer, weaker layers erode faster, undermining the harder,stronger layers above them. Without adequate support, the cliffs collapse. The relentless river carriesthis eroded material to the Gulf of California. Much of what is now southeastern California andsouthwestern Arizona is covered with material eroded from Grand Canyon.

Over its 277 river miles (446 km), the jagged Grand Canyon varies in width. Along the South Rim, itranges between 8 and 16 miles (13–26 km) depending upon where you choose to measure.

Why Grand? Often described as Earth's greatest geological showcase, the ensemble of stunning dimensions—themelding of depth, width, and length—sets Grand Canyon apart. Nowhere else features such a dazzlingvariety of colorful rock layers, impressive buttes, and shadowed side canyons. Grand Canyon is thecanyon against which all other canyons are compared.Illustration:

1. Kaibab Formation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .270 million years 2. Toroweap Formation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .273 million years3. Coconino Sandstone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .275 million years 4. Hermit Formation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .280 million years5. Supai Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .315–285 million years 6. Redwall Limestone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .340 million years7. Temple Butte Formation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .385 million years8. Muav Limestone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .505 million years9. Bright Angel Shale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .515 million years

10. Tapeats Sandstone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .525 million years11. Grand Canyon Supergroup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,200 million–740 million years12. Vishnu basement rocks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,840–1,680 million years

11.

12.

There’s Only One Grand Canyon

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11.

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Want to know more?The geologic story is rich in detail and mystery. Attending a free ranger program may move youfrom wonder to comprehension. Programs are described on pages 2–3.

Grand Canyon Association bookstores offer many geology related titles. Bookstore hours andlocations are listed on page 3. To learn more about geology at Grand Canyon, take a look at:• Yardstick of Geologic Time, Allyson Mathis• Introduction to Grand Canyon Geology, Greer Price• Carving Grand Canyon, Wayne Ranney• Grand Canyon: Solving Earth’s Grandest Puzzle, James Powell

Park ScienceS P R I N G 2 0 0 8 V I S I T O R ’ S G U I D E 7

A.D. 1500: By the time of the comingof European explorers to NorthAmerica, California condors existedonly along the Pacific Coast, fromBritish Columbia to Baja California,extending inland a few hundredmiles. Some researchers estimatethat the population consisted of afew hundred pairs. With the extinc-tion of the large land mammals, thecondors may have been surviving onthe carcasses of whales and othermarine mammals. Was the popula-tion decrease due to the loss of thelarge mammals as a food source orwere the condors unable to competein a changed world with smaller scavengers such as the related turkey vulture?

Late 1800s: Both population andrange continued to decline. Thelarge birds were tempting targets forthose with firearms. Gold minersobtained condor wing and tail feath-ers to store gold dust in the hollowshafts. A Victorian Age egg-collect-ing fad reduced productivity. The

last active nest in Arizona occurrednear Lees Ferry in the 1890s.

1924: The last condor sighting inArizona was of a solitary condor nearWilliams, just south of the park.

1980s: Modern America presentednew hazards for condors. Birds diedflying into powerlines or from drink-ing spilled antifreeze from automo-bile radiators. Ingestion of bullets orpellets from carcasses resulted inlead poisoning. When the popula-tion of California condors reached alow of 22 individuals, biologistsdecided that the species' survivaldepended on capturing the remain-ing condors and initiating a captivebreeding program. By 1987 allCalifornia condors were removedfrom the wild.

1996: The breeding program provedsuccessful. The goal was to establishat least two wild populations in addi-tion to the captive breeding condors.Central California and northern

Cautiously optimistic. That summa-rizes the outlook for the Californiacondor, one of the largest and rarestbirds in North America. TheNational Park Service at GrandCanyon Nation Park is pleased to becooperating with the U.S. Fish andWildlife Service, the Bureau of LandManagement, and The PeregrineFund in the reestablishment of aCalifornia condor population inArizona. This is their story.

50,000–10,000 years ago: ThePleistocene world presented a differ-ent view of Grand Canyon. Duringthe height of the Ice Age, the climatewas cooler and wetter. Coniferousforests crept down the sides of thecanyon; rich grasslands covered sur-rounding plateaus. Large herbi-vores—Shasta ground sloth,shrubox, mammoths, and horses—grazed on the abundant food supply.California condors scavenged on thecarcasses. Condor bones discoveredin Grand Canyon caves documenttheir presence.

fledged from three nesting pairs in2007. Lead poisoning continues tobe a problem. Condors are exposedto lead when they ingest bullets orpellets from carcasses. To reducethis lead source, the Arizona Gameand Fish Department providedhunters in northern Arizona withcoupons for nonlead ammunition.

With successful hatchings both inthe wild and at rearing facilities, theCalifornia condor population shouldpass the 300 mark this year. Morethan 50 condors now fly over north-ern Arizona, with a similar popula-tion in California. A few birds callBaja California home. The future ofthe California condor looks muchmore promising than it did just a fewyears ago. Ask a ranger about thisyear’s nesting pairs.

California Condors: Soaring to Success

Want to know more?For more information on California condors, attend the Condor Talk: Wings over the Canyonranger program described on page 2 or go to www.peregrinefund.org for recent field reports.Grand Canyon Association bookstores feature several condor titles, including:• Condor: To the Brink and Back, John Nielsen• California Condors (children’s book), Patricia A. Fink Martin• Condor’s Egg (children’s book), Jonathan London• Condors in Canyon Country, Sophie Osborne

You Can Assist the Condors One partner of the condor reintroduction program still needs to be mentioned—YOU. Youcan take an active role in condor management. If you encounter a condor, please:

• Enjoy the birds from a distance. Do not attempt to approach them. Condors will bite.

• Do not feed them or leave out food for a condor.

• Never throw objects at a condor or otherwise harass them.

• If you observe anyone harassing or harming a condor, immediately notify a park ranger.

Arizona presented the best combina-tion of habitat and food sources. InDecember the first six condors in theArizona reintroduction effort flewfrom the acclimation site atop theVermilion Cliffs north of GrandCanyon. Further releases each yearadd to the population of free-flyingcondors.

Early 2000s: Most of the birds in thefirst releases were youngsters, only ayear or two old. As they approachedreproductive age, six or seven, theybegan to display courtship behavior.Not too surprisingly, the first nestingattempts were unsuccessful. Finallyin 2003 a pair hatched and raised itsyoung to fledging. Each spring sincepair bonding and nesting hasoccurred—some successful, somenot. The birds have had to learn theintricacies of living on their own.

Today: The condor program contin-ues with more captive-raised birdsreleased, additional nesting, andsome disappointments. One bird

On a hot day in October 2007, an archaeolo-gist lifted a slab from the floor of an ancientroom, revealing a perfectly intact pot. Peoplewho lived here centuries ago used this largecorrugated vessel for cooking or food storage.Now, it quickly drew a crowd of archaeolo-gists and their assistants. On an archaeologi-cal excavation, every artifact is an importantpart of the story that finally emerges, but a dis-covery like this was thrilling even for thosewho had spent years working in the field.

This dig was part of an exciting projectdesigned to increase our knowledge of GrandCanyon's human past before it disappears.Many of the sites where people once livedalong the Colorado River have been buried bywindblown sand from the river's sandy beach-es, leaving them hidden but protected. Today,Glen Canyon dam traps most of the river'ssediment. As a result, the sand dunes and thesites themselves are beginning to erode away.

Living along the Colorado River

Archaeological sites are a non-renewableresource. When they disappear—whetherthrough erosion, vandalism, or simply the pas-sage of time—they are gone forever along withthe knowledge they hold. Grand CanyonNational Park, working with the Museum ofNorthern Arizona and eleven affiliated NativeAmerican tribes, has embarked on the largestexcavation project seen in the park in nearlyforty years. Beginning in 2007 and ending in2009, the park will excavate nine of the mostendangered sites along the river corridor.

National Park Service archaeologists discov-ered the pot in a large ancestral Puebloan site

along the banks of the river. As the archaeolo-gists dug carefully through the rooms, the arti-facts they uncovered provided clues to thepeople's daily lives. The rooms held stone-lined hearths for cooking fires, storage pits inthe floor, and mealing bins where people onceground corn for their dinner.

Other objects found at the site indicate thatthe canyon was not a barrier but a home thatthe people traveled through, gatheringresources from different areas. The inhabi-tants grew corn nearby, but piñon nuts,juniper berries, and rabbit bones demonstratethat people along the river used resources

from higher in the canyon and on the rims.The source of a bison femur is still a mystery!Varied potsherds, of different origin, showthat pottery was traded back and forth acrossthe canyon as well as made locally.

Detailed study of the rooms reveals a complexand fascinating story. The ancestralPuebloans occupied this site off and on for aspan of centuries. Each room showed layerupon layer of separate occupations. Peoplecame, built homes, stayed a generation or twofarming along the river, and then left. Eachtime they left, they or others later returned tothis familiar place.

Archaeology is a dynamic science. The finallab analysis of this project will provide a deep-er understanding of the lives of the peoplewho made this beautiful place their home. Asthis exciting series of excavations progresses,we will continue to refine and reshape ourknowledge of Grand Canyon's human history.There is still much to learn and discover. Ifyou find an artifact, do your part to preserve itby leaving it where it is and reporting its loca-tion to a park ranger. To learn more, and tosee artifacts like the beautiful pot, visitTusayan Museum and Ruin along DesertView Drive.

Preserving Our Cultural HeritageThousands of people have called Grand Canyonhome during the past 12,000 years. During yourvisit, you may come across remnants of culturesfrom long ago. You may see evidence left by min-ers and explorers of the early twentieth century orthe remains of prehistoric Native Americandwellings, rock art, or artifacts such as pottery.These ruins and artifacts are a fragile, irreplace-able legacy. The National Park Service preservesthese special places and federal law prohibits theexcavation, injury, destruction, or removal of anyartifact or archeological site. When visiting a site, DO:

• Take pictures.• Try to imagine what life was like in the past at

Grand Canyon.• Contact a ranger if you see archeological sites

defaced or witness someone removing artifacts.

DON’T:

• Walk or lean on walls.• Touch rock art or granary walls.• Move artifacts or modify walls.• Eat or camp within the site.

If you would like to enjoy a cultural site visit:• Tusayan Ruin on the South Rim• Bright Angel Ruin at Phantom Ranch• Hilltop Ruin, Nankoweap Granaries, and

Unkar Delta along the Colorado River• Walhalla Glades Ruin, Transept Trail Ruin,

and Cliff Springs Granary on the North Rim• Rock art sites along the Bright Angel Trail• Horseshoe Mesa Historic District on the

Grandview Trail

Park News10 G R A N D C A N Y O N N A T I O N A L P A R K

Park NewsS P R I N G 2 0 0 8 V I S I T O R ’ S G U I D E 11

How do more than four million visitors annually enter, explore,and enjoy this wonderful national park? For more than a century, the National Park Service and its concessionaires haveattempted to provide the facilities and services that make yourvisit a memorable one.

As you entered the park through either the east or southentrances, you may have encountered some delays or detoursdue to the work on the entrances. At the east entrance nearDesert View, new stone-walled booths replace the inadequate

shelters used previously. The south entrance near the gatewaycommunity of Tusayan has long been a bottleneck during thebusy summer. The addition of new entrance lanes and widen-ing of the road leading to the booths should reduce the timenecessary to get into the park.

Hermit Road, extending west from Grand Canyon Village,needs extensive rehabilitation. The Santa Fe Railroad built thefirst road to Hermits Rest around 1910. The National ParkService and the Bureau of Public Roads paved the current align-ment in 1934–1935. After more than 70 years, the road is toonarrow for today's buses and the pavement is disintegrating.Construction includes widening and repaving the road. Parkingareas and shuttle bus stops near many of the overlooks will alsobe upgraded. A new multi-user Greenway Trail will follow theoriginal 1910 alignment from west of The Abyss to near HermitsRest. Hikers, bicyclists, and visitors with wheelchairs can usethe paved trail to enjoy a section of the rim away from the trafficon the road. Construction should be finished by November.

From March to November visitors wishing to experience theviewpoints along Hermit Road must ride the free shuttle buses.This construction requires the closure of Hermit Road fromHopi Point west beginning April 1. The closure also includesthe Rim Trail west of Hopi Point. The shuttle buses will contin-ue to run as far as Hopi Point.

Invasive Plants in Grand Canyon National Park

Pardon our Construction

What is an invasive plant? An invasive plant is similar to aweed, a plant that does not naturally occur in the area or isgrowing in an area where it is unwanted. A weed is consideredinvasive when it competes with native plants and invades anarea through fast growth and spread. In Grand CanyonNational Park the National Park Service removes the mostaggressive invasive plants so that natural habitats remain intact.

Why are resource managers concerned about them?Invasive plants undermine the integrity and function of ecosys-tems by out-competing native plants for sunlight, water, andnutrients. During this extended drought period, native plantsneed all the help they can get to survive. Many invasive plants

are not palatable to wildlife, nor provide good habitat. A field ofScotch thistle is much less inviting than a thriving native ecosys-tem. Some invaders produce chemicals that discourage thegrowth of native species. Invasive species such as cheatgrass,which is now common throughout the West, encourage fre-quent wildfires by growing as a fine, closely spaced grass thatdries out by early summer, providing fuel. The spread of inva-sive plants is one of the greatest threats to biodiversity and thepreservation of intact, native ecosystems.

How did they get here and how can you help?Sometimes visitors bring more than luggage from their home.Weed seeds can “hitchhike” on socks, shoes, clothes, campinggear, pets, cars, and trains. Historically, many invasive specieswere planted or brought to the area to serve as windbreaks,ornamentals, or cattle forage. Since 1996, the number of inva-sive plant species documented in the park has increased fiftypercent, from 116 to 187. The increase reflects new arrivals andan increased effort by park managers in surveying park lands.You can help Grand Canyon by removing seeds from yourcamping gear, shoes, and clothes before you enter the park.Also, brush your pet to remove seeds that may be stuck to theircoat. Staying on established trails keeps any invasive seeds youmissed out of pristine areas of the park.

What can you do at home? Check your belongings before you leave the park to ensure you do not bring unwantedplant seeds back home. You can also protect your home frominvasive plants by landscaping with native plants. Finally, you

can help your local area by volunteering for invasive plantremoval projects.

How do we control invasive plants? Volunteers! GrandCanyon's Vegetation Program relies on wonderful volunteers tokeep our park beautiful and our native ecosystems intact. Agroup of volunteers can pull thousands of invasive plants in oneday, many times more than the Vegetation Program staff coulddo alone. If you are interested in lending a hand, visit the web-sites www.gcvolunteers.org or www.volunteer.gov/gov orcall the Grand Canyon Trust at 928-774-7488.

Use of Hermit Trail is restricted during the construction. Dayhikers and backpackers should check with the rangers in theBackcountry Information Center before attempting to get outon Hermit Trail. Grandview Trail and other trails betweenGrand Canyon Village and Desert View provide alternatives fordescending into the canyon on less developed trails.

Your entrance fees fund these improvements. Other projectsaccomplished with the entrance fees include the free shuttle bussystem, the visitor center and restrooms at Canyon ViewInformation Plaza, the rehabilitation of Yavapai ObservationStation including the new geology exhibits, and new restroomsat several locations on the South Rim. Not as easily seen, butjust as important, are the new maintenance facility, the rehabili-tation of the historic Ranger Operations building, and theremodeling of the Backcountry Information Center. Not all ofthe entrance fees stay at Grand Canyon National Park.Approximately twenty percent of each entrance permit is redis-tributed to National Park Service areas that do not collect fees

The National Park Service thanks you for your support. If youplan to visit other park service areas, you may want to purchasethe America the Beautiful-National Parks and FederalRecreational Lands Pass. You can apply your current GrandCanyon entrance permit toward the purchase of the intera-gency pass.

Want to know more?For more National Park Service invasive plant infor-mation, go to http://www.nps.gov/plants/alien/

Many books cover the canyon's flora. Take a look at:• Introduction to Grand Canyon Ecology by

Rose Houk• A Natural History Guide: Grand Canyon by

Jeremy Schmidt

12 G R A N D C A N Y O N N A T I O N A L P A R K

Hiking ChartWARNING: It is recommended that you do not attempt to hike from the rim to theriver and back in one day. There are no loop trails for day hikes; you will be hiking on the

same trail in both directions. Remember! You are responsible for your own safety and thesafety of those in your party. Approximate

Distance Time ElevationDestination Round Trip Round Trip Change NotesTrails

Rim TrailBegin from any viewpoint in thevillage or along Hermit Road. TheRim Trail offers excellent walkingfor quiet views of the inner canyonand for visitors who desire an easyhike. See the map on pages 8–9. Nowater west of Bright Angel Lodge.

Bright Angel Trail (Steep)Trail begins just west of BrightAngel Lodge. Some shade, seasonalwater subject to pipeline breaks;check at the Visitor Center atCanyon View Information Plazafor status. Upper portion may beextremely icy in early spring. Usecrampons for safe walking.

South Kaibab Trail (Steep)Trail begins south of Yaki Point onYaki Point Road. Best views for a rel-atively short hike. Steep trail, nowater, little shade. Access trailheadvia shuttle bus. Upper portion maybe extremely icy in early spring. Usecrampons for safe walking.

Hermit Trail (Steep)Unmaintained steep trail requirescaution. Begins 500 feet west ofHermits Rest. Water from springsmust be treated before drinking.For experienced desert hikers.Hiking boots recommended.Access to the trailheadrestricted beginning April 1.

Grandview Trail (Very Steep)Unmaintained steep trail requirescaution. Begins on canyon side ofretaining wall at Grandview Point onDesert View Drive (12 miles east ofvillage). For experienced desert hik-ers. Hiking boots recommended.May be extremely icy in early spring.

YourChoice

Your Choice

3 mi.(4.8 km)

6 mi.(9.6 km)

9.2 mi. (14.8 km)

12.2 mi.(19.6 km)

1.8 mi.(2.9 km)

3 mi.(4.8 km)

6 mi.(10 km)

3 mi.(4.8 km)

5 mi.(8 km)

7 mi.(11 km)

2.2 mi.(3.5 km)

6 mi.(9.6 km)

Along the Village Rim

Along HermitRoad

11/2- Mile Resthouse

3-Mile Resthouse

IndianGarden

PlateauPoint

Ooh AahPoint

CedarRidge

SkeletonPoint

WaldronBasin

Santa MariaSpring

DrippingSprings

CoconinoSaddle

HorseshoeMesa

15 min.–11/2 hours

15 min.– all day

2–4 hours

4–6 hours

6–9 hours

8–12 hours

1–2 hours

2–4 hours

4–6 hours

2–4 hours

5–8 hours

6–9 hours

1–2 hours

6–9 hours

Paved. Best easy walk.Passes historic buildings.

Becomes unmarked dirtpath west of MaricopaPoint. Detour aroundOrphan Mine.

Restrooms. No water until May.

No water until May.

Restrooms. Water.

No water. View of river 11/2 mi. beyond IndianGarden

No water.First view east.

Restrooms. No water.First hitching rail.

No water. Second hitch-ing rail. First view ofriver.

No water.

Treat water.

Treat water. Use extracaution along narrowsections.

No water. Use extra caution along narrowsections.

Toilet. No water. Use extra caution alongnarrow sections.

200 feet(60 m)

200 feet(60 m)

1,131 feet(345 m)

2,112 feet(644 m)

3,060 feet(933 m)

3,195 feet (974 m)

600 feet(183 m)

1,140 feet(347 m)

2,040 feet(622 m)

1,240 feet(380 m)

1,760 feet(540 m)

1,400 feet(430 m)

1,190 feet(360 m)

2,600 feet(793 m)

Express hikers’ shuttles directly from Bright Angel Lodge and the Backcountry Information Center to theSouth Kaibab trailhead depart daily at: March—7:00 a.m., 8:00 a.m., and 9:00 a.m.; April—6:00 a.m., 7:00 a.m., and 8:00 a.m.; May—5:00 a.m., 6:00 a.m., and 7:00 a.m.

Plan Ahead As a day hiker no permits are required. You are entirely on yourown. Your descent into the canyon, however brief, marks your entryinto a world in which preparation, self-reliance, and common sense arecrucial.

Know the WeatherSpring weather varies. Snowstorms on the rim are common in March and canoccur as late as May. Late April and May can be windy. By mid-May tempera-tures along the river in the inner canyon may approach 100° F (40°C).

Double Your Calories, Double Your Fun Salty snacks and water or sports drinks should be consumed on any hike lastinglonger than 30 minutes. Food is your body’s primary source of fuel and salts(electrolytes) while hiking in the canyon.

If you do not balance your food intake with fluid consumption, you run the riskof becoming dangerously debilitated and severely ill. For every hour hiking inthe canyon, you should drink 1/2 to 1 quart (liter) of water or sports drinks.

Your best defense against illness and exhaustion is to eat a large breakfast, a fulllunch, a snack every time you take a drink, and a rewarding full dinner at the endof the day. This is not a time to diet.

Watch Your TimePlan on taking twice as long to hike up as it took to hike down. Allow 1/3 of yourtime to descend and 2/3 of your time to ascend.

Mules and HikersEncounters between hikers and mules have resulted in injuries to packers andthe death of some mules. To ensure safety for yourself, other trail users, andmule riders, when encountering mules on the trails:• Step off the trail on the uphill side away from the edge.• Follow the directions of the wrangler. Remain completely quiet and stand

perfectly still. • Do not return to the trail until the last mule is 50 feet (15 m) past your

position.

Hiking Tips1. Be Prepared: Know your route. Know the weather forecast. The

weather can change quickly and dramatically. Carry a map, flashlight, andextra clothing including wind and rain protection. Instep crampons may benecessary on icy trails in early spring.

2. Stay Comfortable: Dressing in layers is the key to comfortable hiking. This allows you to adjust for the changing conditions as you go upand down the trails. And as Mother always said, “Don’t forget yourhat!” It is important to stay dry and protected from the wind.

3. Go Slowly: If you can carry on a conversation, you arehiking at the right pace. If you find yourself out of breath, yourlegs and digestive system are not getting enough oxygen. Lackof oxygen can cause fatigue, heavy legs, and exhaustion.

4. Rest Often: Sit down, prop your legs up, andtake a 10-minute break at least once every hour.

5. Eat and Drink Frequently: Balance yourfood and water intake. Salty snacks help replaceelectrolytes lost through perspiration. No matter what the temperature, youneed water and energy to keep going.

Plateau Point hike is extremely strenuous.

Rim Trail closed at Hopi Point April 1.

Day HikingBefore You Go . . .

Hiking and Camping Below the RimS P R I N G 2 0 0 8 V I S I T O R ’ S G U I D E 13

Heat exhaustion is the result ofdehydration due to intense sweating.Hikers can lose one to two quarts(liters) of water per hour. Rangers atboth Phantom Ranch and IndianGarden treat as many as twenty casesof heat exhaustion a day in summer.

Symptoms: pale face, nausea, cooland moist skin, headache, andcramps

Treatment: drink water, eat high-energy foods, rest in the shade, coolthe body.

Heat stroke is a life-threateningemergency where the body’s heat-regulating mechanisms become overwhelmed by a combination ofinternal heat production and envi-ronmental demands. Every year twoto three Grand Canyon hikers experience heat stroke.

Symptoms: flushed face, dry skin,weak and rapid pulse, high bodytemperature, poor judgment orinability to cope, unconsciousness.Victim is in danger!

Treatment: find shade, cool victimwith water, send for help!

Leave NoTrace

Leave No Trace is anonprofit organi-

zation dedicatedto promotingresponsible out-door recreation

through educa-tion, research and

partnerships. Whileenjoying your visit, please considerthe following principles to minimizeyour impact and help protect GrandCanyon for future generations.

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare

2. Travel and Camp on DurableSurfaces

3. Dispose of Waste Properly

4. Leave What You Find

5. Minimize Campfire ImpactsNo campfires in Grand CanyonNational Park backcountry.

6. Respect Wildlife

7. Be Considerate of OtherVisitors

For more information visitwww.lnt.org

Overnight backpacking in GrandCanyon provides a degree of soli-tude, wildness, and silence that isincreasingly difficult to find. A back-country permit is required for allovernight backpacking, except forguests of Phantom Ranch. Themajority of permits are reserved upto four months in advance. A fee of$10 per permit plus $5 per personper night is collected. The permitprogram helps to limit impacts to thenatural resource while providing agreater degree of solitude for hikers.

Individuals arriving without a permitmay be able to obtain one through adaily waiting list. Inquire early in the

morning at the BackcountryInformation Center, open daily 8:00 a.m. to noon and 1:00 p.m. to5:00 p.m. For more information, pickup a Backcountry Trip Planner at theBackcountry Information Office orthe Visitor Center at Canyon ViewInformation Plaza.

BackcountryInformation CenterP.O. Box 129Grand Canyon, AZ 86023

Tel: (928) 638-7875 (1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Mon.–Fri.)www.nps.gov/grca

Backpacking PermitsHealth Hazards

Hyponatremia is an illnessthat mimics the early symp-toms of heat exhaustion. It isthe result of low sodium in theblood caused by drinking toomuch water, not eating enoughsalty foods, and losing salt throughsweating.

Symptoms: nausea, vomiting,altered mental states, and frequenturination

Treatment: have the victim rest andeat salty foods. If mental alertnessdecreases, seek immediate help!

Hypothermia is a life-threaten-ing emergency where the body cannot keep itself warm due toexhaustion and exposure to cold,wet, windy weather.

Symptoms: uncontrolled shivering,poor muscle control, and a carelessattitude

Treatment: put on dry clothing,drink warm liquids, and protectfrom wind, rain, and cold.

Moderation is the key to having an enjoyable hike. Hike within your ability,maintain proper body temperature, balance your food and water intake, andrest often. Emergency situations include:

Hermit Trail Corridor Trails Bright Angel and South Kaibab Grandview Trail

East HorseshoeMesa Trail

Coconino Saddle

Page (Miners) Spring

Grandview Point Trailhead

Desert View Drive

Tonto Trail

Gran

dvie

w Tr

ail

Tonto Trail

C O L O R A D O R I V E R

HorseshoeMesa

C O L O R A D O R I V E R

Desert View Drive

He

rmit Roa

d

Bright AngelBright AngelTrailhead

Park

E

ntrance Road

Sout

h En

trance Road Bright Angel

Trailhead

GrandCanyonVillage

Yaki Point

Cedar Ridge

O'Neill Butte

Skeleton Point

KaibabSuspension BridgeRiver Resthouse

To North Rim viaNorth Kaibab TrailPhantom Ranch

Bright Angel Campground

Bright AngelSuspension BridgeTo junction

with HermitTrail

Plateau Point

Three Mile Resthouse

Maricopa Point

Hopi PointIndian Garden

To HermitsRest

To Grandview Trail junction

Tip Off

Ooh Aah Point

South KaibabTrailhead

Mather Point

Yavapai Point

CanyonViewInformationPlaza

Mile-and-a-HalfResthouse

Brig

ht Ang

el Tr

ail

South Kaibab Trail

Tonto Trail

Tonto Trail

Tonto Trail

Rim

Rim Trail

Clear Creek Trail

Emergency Telephone

Bouc

her T

rail

Bouch

er Tr

ail

Hermit Trail

Hermit T

rail

Herm

it Tra

il

Wal

dron

Trail

Dripping Springs Trail

Tont

o Tr

ail

Her m

it Tr

ail

Tonto Trail

Santa MariaSpring

DrippingSprings

WaldronBasin

Hermit Trailhead

Pima Point

Hermits Rest

To Grand

CanyonVillage

Want to know more?Grand Canyon Association bookstores offer many books and mapson hiking. Bookstore hours and locations are listed on page 3. A fewitems to consider include:

• Official Guide to Hiking Grand Canyon, Scott Thybony

• The Grand Canyon Trail Guides series: Bright Angel, Grandview,Havasu, Hermit, North Kaibab, South Kaibab, South and NorthBass

• Grand Canyon National Park Trails topographic map

Access to Hermit Trail restrictedbeginning April 1.

Lodging and Services14 G R A N D C A N Y O N N A T I O N A L P A R K

FoodDining Listed west to east(approximately) along the rim.

Hermits Rest Snack BarOpen daily 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Maswik Cafeteria Located in Maswik Lodge at the west endof the village. Open daily 6:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. Sports Lounge open daily 5:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.

Bright Angel RestaurantLocated in Bright Angel Lodge. Opendaily. Breakfast 6:30 a.m.–10:45 a.m.Beginning May 1 open at 6:00 a.m. Lunch 11:15 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Dinner 4:30–10:00 p.m. Lounge 11:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.

Bright Angel CoffeeHouse Located in the Bright Angel Lodge. Open daily 5:30 a.m.–10:00 a.m.

Bright Angel FountainUntil March14 open weekends only 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Beginning March15 open daily 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

The Arizona RoomOn the rim in the Bright Angel Lodge.Open daily. Lunch 11:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m.Dinner 4:30 p.m.–10:00 p.m. Reservationsare not accepted.

El Tovar Dining RoomLocated on the rim. Open daily. Breakfast6:30 a.m.–10:45 a.m. Lunch 11:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Dinner 4:30 p.m.–10:00 p.m.Dinner reservations are required: (928) 638-2631 ext. 6432. Lounge: 11:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.

Delicatessen atMarketplaceLocated in the General Store. Open daily.March 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.April–May 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Yavapai Cafeteria(Coyote Cafe)Located at Market Plaza. Open daily6:30 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Desert View TradingPost SnackbarOpen daily 9:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. BeginningMay 17: 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

GroceriesCanyon VillageMarketplaceThe General Store is located in MarketPlaza. March 1–16 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.March 17–May 22 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.Beginning May 23 7:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Desert View MarketplaceMarch–April 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.May 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

CampingCamping is only permitted in designatedcampsites in Grand Canyon NationalPark. Violators are subject to citation and fine.

In the ParkMather CampgroundOperated by the National Park Service.No hookups are available, but there is adump station. Maximum vehicle length:30 feet. Campsites are $18 per night.Some sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Check at thecampground entrance. For advancereservations contact (877)-444-6777 orvisit www.recreation.gov.

Trailer VillageTrailer sites with hookups are locatednext to Mather Campground. $27.00 persite per night for two people. $2.00 foreach additional person over age 16.Campers may register at the entrance toTrailer Village. Reservations may bemade with Xanterra Parks & Resorts. Forsame-day reservations, call (928) 638-2631. For advance reservations,call (888) 297-2757 or write to XanterraParks & Resorts, 6312 South FiddlersGreen Circle, Ste. 600N, GreenwoodVilllage, CO 80111;www.xanterra.com.

Desert ViewCampgroundLocated near the East Entrance, 25 miles from Grand Canyon Village.Self-registration is on a first-come,first-served basis. $12 per site per night.Opens mid-May.

Outside the ParkCamper VillageCommercial campground located onemile (1.6 m) south of park entrance in thetown of Tusayan. Hookups and coin-operated showers are available. Call (928) 638-2887 or visitwww.grandcanyonentrance.com

Ten-X CampgroundOperated by Kaibab National Forest.Located two miles south of Tusayan. $10 per site per night. No hookups orshowers. Group sites available by reserva-tion. Information: (928) 638-2443. OpensMay 1, weather permitting.

LodgingIn the ParkAll prices are subject to change. For same-day reservations, call (928) 638-2631. For advance reserva-tions, call (888) 297-2757 or write to:Xanterra Parks & Resorts, 6312 SouthFiddlers Green Circle, Ste. 600N,Greenwood Villlage, CO 80111;www.xanterra.com.

Bright Angel LodgeOn the rim. $66–$166.

El Tovar HotelOn the rim. $166–406.

Kachina LodgeOn the rim. $162–172.

Thunderbird LodgeOn the rim. $162–172.

Maswik LodgeWest end of village. $86–162.

Yavapai LodgeMarket Plaza. $102–146.

Phantom RanchLocated at the bottom of the canyon.Overnight dormitory and cabin space.Advance reservations are required. Call for prices (see above).

North RimReservations for lodging on the NorthRim can be made at (877) 386-4383 orwww.grandcanyonlodgenorth.com

Outside the ParkGrand HotelTusayan. (928) 638-3333

Grand Canyon Squire InnTusayan. (928) 638-2681

Holiday Inn ExpressTusayan. (928) 638-3000

Quality InnTusayan. (928) 638–2673

Red Feather LodgeTusayan. (928) 638–2414

ServicesLaundry and ShowersLocated near Mather Campground.March 1–March 27: 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

- Last laundry load: 4:45 p.m. March 28–April 4: 7:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

- Last laundry load: 7:45 p.m.Beginning April 25: 6:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.

- Last laundry load: 9:45 p.m.

Chase Bank and ATMLocated at Market Plaza. Open:Mon.–Thurs.: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. and Fri.: 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Accepts travelerschecks and major credit cards. 24-hourATM. Telephone: (928) 638-2437. ATMalso available in Maswik Lodge lobby.

Post OfficeLocated at Market Plaza. Window service: Mon.–Fri.: 9:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.and Sat.: 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Lobby open: 5:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. Stamps are available in the lobby. Telephone: (928) 638-2512.

KennelsOpen daily: 7:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Telephone: (928) 638-0534. For retrieval after 5:00 p.m., contact Fire and Safety: (928) 638-2631.

Lost and FoundFor items lost or found in hotels or restau-rants, call (928) 638-2631. For all other lostitems call, (928) 638-7798. Please takefound items to the Visitor Center atCanyon View Information Plaza.

Garage ServicesLocated east of Grand Canyon NationalPark Lodges general offices. Open daily8:00 a.m–noon and 1:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.Garage provides emergency repairs such as tires, belts, batteries, fuses, hoses, etc. Tow service provided to Williams orFlagstaff for more advanced repairs. After hours emergency service available.(928) 638-2631

Camping EquipmentCamping, hiking, and backpacking equip-ment may be purchased or rented atGeneral Store Marketplace. Limitedrepair services are also available.

Community LibraryOpen Mon.–Fri. 10:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Sat.9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m., closed Sun. and holi-days. Children’s story time Thurs. 11:00a.m. Internet access available. Call (928)638-2718 for directions to library.

Child Day CareThe Kaibab Learning Center is availablefor day care of infants through 12 year oldsif space is available. Immunization recordsmust be provided. Open Mon.–Fri. 7:30a.m.–5:30 p.m. Call (928) 638-6333 formore details.

Books/GiftsListed west to east (approximately).

Hermits Rest . . . .9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.Closes April 1Maswik . . . . . . . .7:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.Kolb Studio . . . . . .8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.Beginning April 15 . . .8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.Lookout Studio .9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.Beginning May 15 . . . . . . .8:00 a.m.–SunsetBright Angel . . .7:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.El Tovar . . . . . . . . . 7:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. Hopi House . . . . .9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.Beginning May 15 . . . . .8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.Verkamps Curio Until March 14 . . . . . .9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.March 15 –April 14 . .9:00 a.m. –6:30 p.m.Beginning April 15 . .9:00 a.m. –7:00 p.m.Yavapai CurioMarch 1–May 14 . . . . .8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.Beginning May 15 . . . .7:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.Books & More at Canyon ViewInformation Plaza . . .8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.Beginning April 15 . . .8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.Yavapai Observation Station . . . . . . . . . . .8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.Beginning April 15 . . .8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.Tusayan Museum .9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.Desert View Bookstore/ParkInformation . . . . . .9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.Desert View Trading Post . . . . . . . . . . . . .8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.Beginning May 15 . . . . . . .8:00 a.m.–SunsetDesert View Watchtower . . . .8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.Beginning May 15 . . . . . . .8:00 a.m.–Sunset

Pets mustbe leashedat all times.Leashed pets are allowed on trailsthroughout the developed areas of theSouth Rim, but not below the rim. Theonly exception is service animals.

Persons wishing to take a service animalbelow the rim must check in first at theBackcountry Information Center. Kennels are available. Telephone: (928) 638-0534.

Organizations and ServicesS P R I N G 2 0 0 8 V I S I T O R ’ S G U I D E 15

ReligiousServicesReligious services are offered in the park and the surrounding community.The National Park Service does notendorse any group or message.

Current schedules are posted at MatherCampground (near the check-in station),Shrine of the Ages, the information kiosk near the post office, and the VisitorCenter at Canyon View Information Plaza.

Community Easter SunriseServiceMarch 23, 6:20 a.m. Located at MatherPoint. Shuttle service available fromMarket Plaza. Open to all.

A Christian Ministry in the National Parks(928) 638-2340.

Grand Canyon CommunityChurch (interdenominational )Jared Long, Pastor. (928) 638-2340.

The Church of Jesus Christ ofLatter-Day Saints Don Kiel, Branch President.(928) 638-9426.

El Cristo Rey Roman CatholicFather Eugene Cagoco, D.S., (928) 638-4050.

Grand Canyon Assembly of GodBrian and Debbie Fulthorp, Co-pastors,(928) 638-9415.

Grand Canyon Baptist ChurchRick Wiles, Pastor. (928) 638-2790.

Jehovah’s Witnesses (Tusayan)Borden Miller, (928) 635-4166.

ServiceOrganizationsAlcoholics AnonymousAA meets Monday, Wednesday, and Fridayat 7:00 p.m. in the Kachina Room, KachinaLodge. Meetings are open and nonsmoking.The Al Anon Family Group meets Friday at8:15 p.m. also in the Kachina Room.

Grand Canyon Rotary ClubMeets Thursdays at noon at El Tovar din-ing room. Meets in the ThunderbirdRoom beginning March 13.

Lions ClubMeets twice monthly on the first andthird Wed. at 7:00 p.m. at the GrandCanyon Quality Inn in Tusayan. Forinformation call (928) 638-0666.

Tours andRiver TripsAir ToursFixed-wing and helicopter tours of theGrand Canyon region originate dailyfrom Grand Canyon Airport. A list of airtour operators is available upon requestat the Visitor Center at Canyon ViewInformation Plaza or consult the localtelephone directory.

Bus ToursTours within the park to Desert Viewand Hermits Rest, as well as sunrise andsunset tours, are available daily.Wheelchair-accessible coaches are avail-able by prior arrangement. Contact anytransportation desk for information orcall (928) 638-2631. Tour to Hermit Restdiscontinued April 1 due to construction.

Mule TripsOne-and two-day trips into the canyondepart in the morning and may be available on a waiting-list basis. Call (928) 638-2631 or contact the BrightAngel Lodge Transportation Desk forfurther information.www.xanterra.com

Horse RidesTrail rides and twilight wagon rides areavailable from Apache Stables at thenorth end of Tusayan. Rides are offeredas weather permits. For information andreservations call: (928) 638-2891.

White-Water Raft TripsWhite-water trips through the canyonlast 3–21 days and require reservationswell in advance. Ask at the Visitor Centerat Canyon View Information Plaza for a Trip Planner with a list of approvedriver trip operators.

Smooth-Water Raft TripsHalf-day trips on the Colorado Riverfrom Glen Canyon Dam to Lees Ferryare provided by Colorado RiverDiscovery. (888) 522-6644; www.raftthecanyon.com. All daytours from the park including thesmooth-water raft trip can be arranged atany lodging Transportation Desk.

Hiking and BackpackingGrand Canyon Field Institute (GCFI)offers a wide variety of educational programs throughout the park. Thesesingle and multi-day “classes” led byexpert instructors share the wonder ofGrand Canyon with participants of allages and backgrounds. For more infor-mation call (866) 471-4435 or visit www.grandcanyon.org/fieldinstitute.GCFI is a program of the nonprofit GrandCanyon Association.

TransportBus ServiceGreyhound Bus Lines offers service fromFlagstaff and Williams, Arizona, to pointsnationwide. (See shuttle service belowfor road transport to the park.)

RailroadGrand Canyon Railway offers servicebetween Williams, Arizona, and GrandCanyon. Call (800)-THE-TRAIN forinformation and reservations. TheRailroad Express offers bus service totake only a one-way trip on the vintagetrain. To ride on the train one-way in themorning, contact any transportationdesk. To ride on the train one-way in theafternoon, contact the Grand CanyonRailway at (800)-THE-TRAIN (800-843-8724). www.thetrain.com

Taxi ServiceService is available to the Grand CanyonAirport, trailheads, and other destina-tions. 24-hour service daily. Call (928)638-2822 or (928) 638-2631, ext. 6563.

Transportation DesksInformation about Phantom Ranchfacilities, mule trips, horseback riding, air tours, one-day float trips, and motor-coach tours (including wheelchair-accessible vehicles) is available at thelodge lobbies (hours vary seasonally).Call (928) 638-2631, ext. 6015.

Maswik Lodge Times vary based on seasonal demand.

Bright Angel 6:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m. March 1–31. 6:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. Starting April 1.

Yavapai Lodge Times vary based on seasonal demand.

Rim to Rim ShuttleDaily round-trip transportation betweenthe North Rim and South Rim is provid-ed by Transcanyon Shuttle. One trip eachway daily. Scheduled service begins May 15. Reservations required: (928) 638-2820.

Shuttle ServiceTwo companies provide shuttle servicebetween Flagstaff, Williams, and GrandCanyon twice daily. They also servePhoenix as well as other points in north-ern Arizona.

Flagstaff Express(800)563-1980(928)225-2290www.flagstaffexpress.com

Open Road Tours(877)226-8060(928)226-8060www.openroadtours.com

AdditionalOut-of-ParkServicesThe following facilities are located inTusayan, outside the park’s southentrance on U.S. Highway 64 South.

For additional services not listed, consultthe local telephone directory. Area code(928) for all numbers listed below.

FuelConoco Service Station . . . . . . .638-2608

FoodCafe Tusayan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .638-2151Canyon Food Mart . . . . . . . . . . .638-2608Canyon Star . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .638-3333General Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .638-9228McDonald's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .638-2208 Mexican Kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . .638-8423 Pizza Hut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .638-4629Quality Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .638-2673RP’s Stage Stop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .638-3115Squire Inn Restaurant . . . . . . . .638-2681Tusayan Steakhouse . . . . . . . . .638-2780 We Cook Pizza, Etc . . . . . . . . . . .638-2278Wendy’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .638-6484

Internet Access Grand Canyon Tourist Center .638-2626Quality Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .638-2673Jennifer’s Internet & Bakery Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .638-3433Red Feather Lodge . . . . . . . . . . .638-2414RP’s Stage Stop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .638-3115

Beauty SalonGrand Canyon Squire Inn . . . . .638-8413

Western UnionCanyon Food Mart . . . . . . . . . . .638-2608

Kaibab National ForestTusayan Ranger District . . . . . .638-2443

News & WeatherKNAU 90.3 . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 532-5628

Hualapai SkywalkThe Hualapai Skywalk at Grand CanyonWest is on the Hualapai IndianReservation, not in Grand CanyonNational Park. The Skywalk at the westend of Grand Canyon is approximately250 miles from the South Rim—50 mileseast of Highway 93 between Kingman,Arizona and Las Vegas, Nevada.

Stop by the Visitor Center at CanyonView Information Plaza for a handoutwith more details and a map. For addi-tional information or to make reserva-tions telephone (877)716-9378 or(702)878-9378 or visit www.destina-tiongrandcanyon.com.

AccessibilityPrograms, services, and facilities that arefully or partially accessible to persons with physical disabilities are noted in The Guide by the following symbol: � Wheelchair accessible with assistance.

Day-Use WheelchairsThe National Park Service provides temporary day-use wheelchairs at nocharge. A wheelchair is available at theVisitor Center at Canyon ViewInformation Plaza.

Accessibility PermitAn accessibility permit, allowing access tosome areas closed to public traffic, isavailable at the entrance gates, the VisitorCenter at Canyon View InformationPlaza, Park Headquarters, Kolb Studio, ElTovar concierge desk, and theTransportation Desks at the Bright Angel,Yavapai, and Maswik Lodges.

Accessible ToursWheelchair-accessible tours are available by prior arrangement. Contactany lodge transportation desk or call(928) 638-2631 for information. TDDtelephones are available to hotel guests in the park.

Accessibility GuideAvailableThe Grand Canyon National ParkAccessibility Guide is available uponrequest at the Visitor Center at CanyonView Information Plaza, Kolb Studio,Tusayan Museum, Desert ViewInformation Center, and the parkentrance stations.

Medical24-Hour Emergency CareDial 911 (From hotel rooms dial 9-911).

North Country Grand Canyon ClinicMarch 1–March 31Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Beginning April 1Daily: 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Telephone: (928) 638-2551

Arizona HighwayInformation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 511or (888) 411-ROAD or www.az511.gov

Desert View Drive

Grandview Point7399 ft. / 2256 m

Yaki Point 7262 ft. / 2213 m

Mather PointYavapai PointGrand Canyon

Village

ParkHeadquarters

GrandCanyon Airport

Ten-X Campground

Moran Point7160 ft. / 2182 m

Lipan Point7360 ft. / 2243 m

Navajo Point7461 ft. / 2275 m

See Village Route Mappages 8–9

EastEntrance

SouthEntrance

Tusayan Ruin and Museum

To Highway 89Cameron

30 mi., 48 km

To I-40Williams: 54 mi., 86 kmFlagstaff: 74 mi., 118 km

TusayanCamping, Lodging, Restaurants, Groceries,Souvenirs, IMAX Theater, Air Tours, Service Station

0 1 2 3 4 5 miles

kilometers0 1 2 3 4 5

Canyon ViewInformation Plaza

Park Boundary

Park Boundary

Desert View7438 ft. / 2267 mSee inset map below

Desert View Area

Paved Road

Shuttle Bus Only

Parking

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Ranger Station

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Picnic

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South Rim16 G R A N D C A N Y O N N A T I O N A L P A R K

North Rim

The average distance across GrandCanyon “as the raven flies” is 10 miles.However, getting from the South Rimto the North Rim by automobilerequires a five-hour drive of 215 miles.

During winter months, the road to theNorth Rim entrance is closed due tosnow. Lodging and camping are avail-able at the canyon's North Rim fromMay 15 through mid-October .Reservations are strongly recom-mended. Additional facilities are available in the surrounding KaibabNational Forest, the Kaibab Lodgearea, and Jacob Lake.

A separate Guide issue is published forthe North Rim and includes detailsabout facilities and services, as well asprogram and hiking information.Inquire at the Visitor Center at CanyonView Information Plaza on the SouthRim.

Desert View ServicesChevron Service Station Staffed March 29 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

24-hour credit card access year round.

Desert View Marketplace March–April: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.Open daily May: 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Bookstore/Park Information 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.Open daily

Trading Post Snack Bar 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.Open daily Beginning May 15: 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Trading Post Gift Shop 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.Open daily Beginning May 15: 8:00 a.m.–Sunset

Watchtower Gift Shop 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.Open daily Beginning May 15: 8:00 a.m.–Sunset

Watchtower Stairs 8:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.Open daily Beginning May 15: 8:00 a.m.– 1/2 hour before Sunset

Desert View CampgroundOpens mid-May or sooner, weather permitting

Bookstores

XÇÜ|v{|Çz XåÑxÜ|xÇvx à{ÜÉâz{ ^ÇÉãÄxwzxWhen you shop at Grand Canyon Association (GCA) bookstores, your pur-chase supports Grand Canyon National Park. GCA is a nonprofit organizationcreated in 1932 to cultivate knowledge, discovery, and stewardship for the benefit of Grand Canyon National Park and its visitors. Since then, GCA hasprovided over $29.2 million in financial support.

When you visit our bookstores, ask how you can support Grand CanyonNational Park’s educational programs and scientific research by becoming amember of the Grand Canyon Association. In addition to supporting the park,you will receive a 15% discount at all GCA bookstores, including our onlinebookstore at www.grandcanyon.org.

Member discounts are also available for most classes offered by the GrandCanyon Field Institute, GCA’s outdoor education program. For more informa-tion about GCFI, visit www.grandcanyon.org/fieldinstitute.

For GCA bookstore locations, see page 4. In addition to the South Rim, GCAoperates bookstores at the North Rim Visitor Center and the Kaibab PlateauVisitor Center at Jacob Lake.

Teachers can take advantage of GCA’s Travelin’ Trunk program, which brings the Grand Canyon to your classroom. For more information contact(800) 858-2808 ext. 7142 or outreach@grandcanyon.org

Shop online: www.grandcanyon.org or call toll free (800) 858-2808, ext 7030.

National Park ServiceU.S. Department of the Interior

Grand Canyon National ParkPost Office Box 129, Grand Canyon, AZ 86023

For the latest information updates, visit Grand Canyon National Park’s website at: www.nps.gov/grca

The Guide is published by Grand Canyon National Park in cooperation with GrandCanyon Association. Printed by Arizona Daily Sun on recycled paper, using soy-based inks.

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f th

e

Age

s

Yav

apai

O

bser

vati

on

Stat

ion

Vill

age

East

Brig

ht A

ngel

Lo

dge

Trai

n D

epot

Back

coun

try

In

form

atio

n

Cent

er

Cent

er

Road

Mar

ket

Plaz

a Ea

stbo

und

Mar

ket

Plaz

a

Wes

tbou

nd

East

boun

d

Wes

tbou

nd

East

boun

d

Wes

tbou

nd

East

boun

d

Wes

tbou

nd

Cany

on V

iew

In

form

atio

n Pl

aza

Cany

on V

iew

Info

rmat

ion

Plaz

a

Mas

wik

Lo

dg

e

Her

mit

s R

est

Ro

ute

Her

mit

Ro

ad c

lose

d a

t H

op

i Po

int

Ap

ril 1

.V

illag

e R

ou

te

Dir

ecti

on

an

d s

equ

ence

of

sto

ps

Kai

bab

Tra

il R

ou

te

Dir

ecti

on

an

d s

equ

ence

of

sto

ps

Her

mit

s Re

st T

rans

fer

Free

Sh

utt

le B

use

s Fr

ee sh

uttle

bus

es o

pera

te o

nth

ree r

oute

s at G

rand

Can

yon

Nat

iona

l Par

k: H

erm

its R

est R

oute

(indi

cate

d in

red

on th

e map

abov

e), V

illag

eRo

ute (

blue

), an

d Ka

ibab

Tra

il Ro

ute (

gree

n).

No

ticke

ts ar

e req

uire

d, an

d bu

s sto

ps ar

ecl

early

mar

ked

thro

ugho

ut th

e par

k by

sign

sw

ith th

e abo

ve sy

mbo

l.

Buse

s may

be w

hite

, whi

te w

ith a

gree

n str

ipe,

or b

row

n an

d ta

n. T

he ro

ute i

s ind

icat

ed b

y aco

lore

d sq

uare

nea

r eac

h do

or. M

any b

uses

also

disp

lay t

he ro

ute n

ame o

n th

e fro

nt o

r sid

eof

the b

us.

Pets

are n

ot p

erm

itted

on

buse

s.

Serv

ice m

ay b

e sus

pend

ed d

urin

g inc

lem

ent

wea

ther

.

Sun

rise

an

d s

un

set

tim

es a

relis

ted

on

pag

e 4.

Her

mit

s R

est

Ro

ute

Buse

s pro

vide

tran

spor

tatio

nbe

twee

n th

e Vill

age R

oute

Tra

nsfe

ran

d H

erm

its R

est (

seve

n m

iles;

11 k

m) w

ith st

ops a

t eig

ht ca

nyon

ove

rlook

s.

Buse

s sto

p on

ly at

Her

mits

Res

t, M

ohav

e, an

dH

opi P

oint

s on

retu

rn.

75 M

inu

tes

Ro

un

d-t

rip

(w

ithou

t get

ting o

ff bu

s)

Mar

chBu

ses r

un ev

ery 3

0 min

utes

4:30

a.m

. to

9:30

a.m

.Bu

ses r

un ev

ery 1

5 min

utes

9:30

a.m

. to

suns

etBu

ses r

un ev

ery 3

0 min

utes

suns

et to

one

hou

r af

ter s

unse

tA

pril

and

May

Buse

s run

ever

y 30 m

inut

es 4:

30 a.

m. t

o 7:

30 a.

m.

Buse

s run

ever

y 15 m

inut

es 7:

30 a.

m. t

o su

nset

Buse

s run

ever

y 30 m

inut

es su

nset

to o

ne h

our a

fter

suns

et

Her

mit

Road

is ro

ugh.

Visi

tors

with

bac

k or

hip

prob

lem

s may

find

it m

ore c

omfo

rtabl

e to

ride i

n th

e fro

nt b

us ra

ther

than

the t

raile

r.

Her

mit

Roa

d cl

osed

wes

t of

Hop

i Poi

ntbe

ginn

ing

Apr

il 1

due

to c

onst

ruct

ion.

Vill

age

Ro

ute

Buse

s pro

vide

tran

spor

tatio

nbe

twee

n Ca

nyon

Vie

wIn

form

atio

n Pl

aza,

Yava

pai P

oint

,ho

tels,

resta

uran

ts, ca

mpg

roun

ds, p

arki

ng lo

ts,an

d ot

her f

acili

ties i

n th

e Vill

age a

rea.

Thi

s is

not a

scen

ic ro

ute,

but r

im vi

ews a

re av

ailab

le a

shor

t wal

k fro

m m

any s

tops

.

60 M

inu

tes

Ro

un

d-t

rip

(w

ithou

t get

ting o

ff bu

s)

Mar

ch, A

pril,

and

May

Bu

ses r

un ev

ery 3

0 min

utes

4:30

a.m

. to

6:30

a.m

. Bu

ses r

un ev

ery 1

5 min

utes

6:30

a.m

. to

7:30

p.m

.Bu

ses r

un ev

ery 3

0 min

utes

7:30

p.m

. to

10:0

0 p.m

.

Kai

bab

Tra

il R

ou

teBu

ses p

rovi

de tr

ansp

orta

tion

betw

een

Cany

on V

iew

Info

rmat

ion

Plaz

a, So

uth

Kaib

ab T

railh

ead,

Yaki

Poi

nt, a

nd P

ipe C

reek

Vist

a. Th

is is

the

shor

test

scen

ic ro

ute a

nd th

e onl

y acc

ess t

oYa

ki P

oint

.

30 M

inu

tes

Ro

un

d-t

rip

(w

ithou

t get

ting o

ff bu

s)

Mar

ch, A

pril,

and

May

Bu

ses r

un ev

ery 3

0 min

utes

from

4:30

a.m

. to

6:30

a.m

.Bu

ses r

un ev

ery 1

5 min

utes

from

6:30

a.m

. to

6:00 p

.m.

Buse

s run

ever

y 30 m

inut

es fr

om 6:

00 p

.m. t

o on

e hou

raf

ter s

unse

t.

Hik

ers’

Exp

ress

An ea

rly m

orni

ng H

iker

s’ Ex

pres

slea

ves f

rom

Brig

ht A

ngel

Lodg

e and

the B

ackc

ount

ry In

form

atio

n Ce

nter

and

goes

dire

ctly

to th

e Sou

th K

aibab

Tra

ilhea

dda

ily at

:

Mar

ch 7

:00 a

.m., 8

:00 a

.m., a

nd 9:

00 a.

m.

Apr

il 6:

00 a.

m., 7

:00 a

.m., a

nd 8:

00 a.

m.

May

5:0

0 a.m

., 6:0

0 a.m

., and

7:00

a.m

.

Ru

les

of

the

Ro

adM

oto

rist

War

nin

g

Pede

strian

s hav

e the

righ

t of w

ay.

Vehi

cles

mus

t sto

p fo

r ped

estri

ans

in cr

ossw

alks

. It i

s the

Law

.

Ped

estr

ian

War

nin

gAv

oid

wal

king

on

narr

ow p

ark

road

s. U

se tr

ails t

hat p

aral

lel m

ost

park

road

s. Al

way

s fac

e tra

ffic.

Bic

yclis

t W

arn

ing

Bicy

cles

are p

erm

itted

on

all p

aved

and

unpa

ved

park

road

s and

the

new

Gre

enw

ay T

rail.

The

y are

pro

hibi

ted

onal

l oth

er tr

ails,

incl

udin

g the

Rim

Tra

il.Bi

cycl

ists m

ust o

bey a

ll tra

ffic r

egul

atio

ns.

Alw

ays r

ide s

ingl

e file

with

the f

low

of t

he tr

af-

fic. S

ee an

d be

seen

; wea

r brig

ht co

lors

and

ahe

lmet

.

On

the n

arro

w H

erm

it Ro

ad b

icyc

lists

shou

ldpu

ll to

the r

ight

shou

lder

of t

he ro

ad an

d di

smou

nt w

hen

larg

e veh

icle

s are

atte

mpt

ing

to p

ass.

Nev

er h

ang o

nto

a shu

ttle b

us w

hile

ridin

g.

Leg

end

Park

ing

Park

ing i

s ava

ilabl

e in

lots

thro

ugh-

out G

rand

Can

yon

Villa

ge. P

leas

eav

oid

park

ing a

long

the r

oads

ide

exce

pt w

here

sign

s or l

ines

on

the r

oad

indi

-ca

te th

at it

is p

erm

issib

le. L

ocat

ion

of th

e lot

sis

indi

cate

d on

the m

ap ab

ove.

AN

ear P

ark

Hea

dqua

rters

(adm

inist

rativ

eof

fices

). La

rge l

ot th

at fr

eque

ntly

has

avail

able

spot

s.

BN

ear t

he b

usin

esse

s in

Mar

ket P

laza

. Th

is is

the l

arge

st lo

t, bu

t ten

ds to

fill

early

.

C Th

is sm

all l

ot n

ear t

he in

ters

ectio

n of

Cen

ter

and

Villa

ge L

oop

Road

s may

hav

e site

s whe

not

hers

do

not.

DU

npav

ed lo

t alo

ng th

e rail

road

trac

ks in

th

e mid

dle o

f the

Gra

nd C

anyo

n Vi

llage

Hist

oric

Dist

rict.

EN

ear t

he B

ackc

ount

ry In

form

atio

n Ce

nter

. The

sout

hern

por

tion

of th

is lo

t has

larg

e, pu

ll-th

roug

h sp

aces

for R

Vs an

d ve

hicl

es w

ith

traile

rs.

Easil

y ac

cess

ible

shut

tle b

us st

ops a

re

loca

ted

in o

r nea

r all

park

ing

area

s.

Acc

essi

bili

tyAn

acce

ssib

ility

per

mit,

allo

win

gac

cess

to so

me a

reas

clos

ed to

pub

-lic

traf

fic, is

avail

able

at en

tranc

ega

tes,

the V

isito

r Cen

ter a

t Can

yon

View

Info

rmat

ion

Plaz

a, Pa

rk H

eadq

uarte

rs, K

olb

Stud

io, E

l Tov

ar C

onci

erge

Des

k, an

d th

eBr

ight

Ang

el L

odge

, Yav

apai

Lodg

e and

Mas

wik

Lod

ge T

rans

porta

tion

Des

ks.

Acce

ssib

le sh

uttle

bus

es ar

e ava

ilabl

e in

resp

onse

to re

ques

ts m

ade a

t lea

st 24

hou

rs in

adva

nce.

Call

(928

) 638

-059

1.

Visit

ors w

ith ac

cess

ibili

ty co

nsid

erat

ions

and

thei

r oth

er p

arty

mem

bers

may

use

the s

huttl

eth

at o

pera

tes a

ppro

xim

atel

y eve

ry 15

min

utes

betw

een

Mat

her P

oint

and

Cany

on V

iew

Info

rmat

ion

Plaz

a fro

m 7:

30 a.

m. t

o 6:

30 p

.m.

Shut

tle se

rvic

e may

be s

uspe

nded

dur

ing

incl

emen

t wea

ther

.

PSh

uttle

Bus

Rou

tes

(Indi

cate

d in

red,

blu

e, or

gree

n)

Shut

tle B

us S

tops

(Indi

cate

d in

red,

blu

e, or

gree

n)

Maj

or P

ark

Road

s(A

ll ve

hicl

es)

Seco

ndar

y Roa

ds(A

ll ve

hicl

es)

Shut

tle B

uses

Onl

y

Park

ing

Picn

ic T

able

s

Pave

d Tr

ails

Unp

aved

Tra

ils

Dist

ance

bet

wee

n po

ints

on

Rim

Tra

il

This

map

is n

ot to

scal

e.

Chec

k di

stan

ces c

aref

ully

.

P

Gra

nd C

anyo

n V

illag

e Sh

uttle

Bus

Rou

tes,

Poi

nts

of In

tere

st, a

nd P

arki

ng