Water Conservation Remains Critical Following New Pipeline Break

Grand Canyon continues to operate under water conservation measures. A new break in the Transcanyon Waterline was identified the evening of April 29 and as of Thursday afternoon, the break has been located along the North Kaibab Trail north of Phantom Ranch near the 4th footbridge. This latest development is a reminder that the system remains fragile and conditions can change quickly.

On Monday, April 27, the park announced incremental improvements, including the return of water in the campground, reopening of Camper Services, and the easing of fire restrictions. However, the recent pipeline break underscores that the park is not yet in the clear. Additional conservation measures may be necessary depending on repair timelines and system capacity.

Residents play a key role in supporting these efforts. Simple actions at home can make a meaningful difference: take shorter showers, run dishwashers and laundry only with full loads, turn off water while brushing teeth or washing dishes, and promptly report any leaks. Water conservation is a shared responsibility across the Grand Canyon community. Continued diligence will help ensure that essential services remain available while crews work to restore the system.

Extended! 2025 Firewise Cleanup Continues Through this Weekend

Now extended through Sunday, May 3, all residents on the South Rim are encouraged to pile woody debris and pine needles along residential roads in areas accessible to vehicles. Park staff will continue moving and hauling debris the week of May 4.

Here are simple ways you can make a difference:

• Clear dead woody debris around your residence up to 30 ft.
• Rake pine needles and leaves (minimize collection of dirt and rocks, please!).
• Move firewood away from structures (more than 10 ft. recommended).
• Do not collect industrial lumber; this material will be left.

Thank you to the residents who have already completed Firewise cleanup in their neighborhoods!

Comments, questions, or concerns? Please reach out to Michael Guarino at Michael_Guarino@nps.gov. More information can be found in the attached flyer here.

Now Hiring: Summer 2026 Fee Collection Positions at Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon National Park is hiring critical needs positions within the Fee Collection Branch for summer 2026. These temporary Recreation Fee Clerk roles are open to community members and residents and offer an opportunity to gain experience with the National Park Service. Appointments are for 30 days, with the potential to extend up to 60 days.

Recreation Fee Clerks serve as uniformed representatives of the park and are often the first point of contact for visitors. Duties include greeting visitors, providing information, assisting with entrance processes, processing passes, and answering questions about park access, campgrounds, and partner services. These positions do not handle cash.

Positions are available at the GS-03 ($15.59/hour) and GS-04 ($17.05/hour) levels, depending on experience. Employees work 40 hours per week, including weekends and holidays as needed, with shifts between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.

To apply, submit a 1–2 page resume to GRCA_Fee_Management@nps.gov by May 15, 2026. Applicants with prior federal service must include their most recent non-award SF-50. More information on these positions can be found in the attached flyer here.

Upcoming Special Events at the Visitor Center: May 1–6

Grand Canyon Conservancy will host a series of special artist-led programs at the Visitor Center from May 1 through May 6, offering employees, residents, and visitors a chance to engage with creative interpretations of the natural world.

Artists-in-Residence Nicole Banowetz and Devin Reilly will present Future Plants and Pollinators, an interactive installation and informal meet-and-greet taking place May 1–2 from 12–2 p.m. and May 4 from 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Their work highlights the relationships between plants, insects, and ecosystems through large-scale inflatable and wearable sculptures.

Additionally, Artist-in-Residence Orquidia Velasquez will host Weaving a Butte-iful Circle open studio sessions May 4–6 from 12–2 p.m. daily. These sessions invite participants to observe her creative process, take part in a weaving activity, and learn more about the cultural and artistic inspirations behind her work.

All programs are free and open to the community. More information can be found in the attached flyer here.

Updated Ranger Programs and Visitor Center Hours Begin Sunday, May 3

Grand Canyon National Park will implement a new daily Village ranger program schedule beginning Sunday, May 3. From May 3 through May 21, two daily ranger-led programs will be offered. The Rim Walk will take place at 9 a.m., meeting at the Bright Angel Trailhead, with topics that vary each day. A Geology Talk will be held at 3 p.m. at the Yavapai Geology Museum, providing a shorter, 30-minute interpretive program focused on the canyon’s geologic story. These program schedules can be found in the attached flyer here.

In addition, the Grand Canyon Visitor Center will operate on updated hours beginning May 3 and will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Cultural Demonstration at Desert View Watchtower: May 5–6

The Cultural Demonstration Program will host Hopi artist Carliss Sinquah on May 5–6 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Desert View Watchtower.

Sinquah, from the village of Hotevilla on Third Mesa of the Hopi Reservation, has spent more than 30 years developing his work as a self-taught artist. His creations are deeply rooted in his Hopi upbringing, culture, and lifeways. He began by creating katsinas for ceremonial purposes and later expanded his work to include painting on canvas and paper.

Through his art, Sinquah aims to bring a sense of healing and reflection to those who experience it. His work reflects the belief that art can offer moments of peace and connection, even in the midst of life’s challenges.

Save the Date: Comedy Night at the Canyon – May 15

Grand Canyon community members are invited to a special evening of live entertainment. Mark your calendars for Comedy Night at the Canyon on May 15 from 8-9 p.m. at the McKee Amphitheater, featuring the comedic duo James and Ernie.

This program will be held outdoors, so dress warm! Additional details can be found in the attached flyer here.

Town of Tusayan to Host Annual Cinco de Mayo Celebration at Squire Resort

On Tuesday, May 5, the Town of Tusayan will be hosting its annual Cinco de Mayo celebration from 4:30-9 p.m. at the Squire Resort in Tusayan. Mexican food and music will be featured as well as pinatas for kids, a face painter, balloon artist, a dive-in movie and indoor and outdoor pool, as well as a drone light show.

More information can be found in the attached flyer here.

May Calendar of Events at the Grand Canyon Rec Center

See all the exciting things happening at the Rec Center in May. From open mic nights, to hiking trips, to fitness classes, the Rec Center has something for everyone! Also, registration for Summer Softball is now open. Team captains are encouraged to sign up now through Monday, May 18. Information on softball registration can be found in the attached flyer here.

The full May calendar for the Rec Center is available in the attached flyer here.

Canyon Closet Summer Hours Announced

The Canyon Closet, a FREE community clothing resource, has announced its May, June, and July hours.

Due to the summer break, the hours will be less frequent than during the school year.

More details, including the schedule and location details of the Canyon Closet can be found in the attached flyer here.

Save the Date! Tusayan Blood Drive on May 30

The Tusayan Fire District will host a community blood drive with Vitalant on Saturday, May 30 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Appointments are suggested, and to schedule, individuals can visit www.donors.vitalant.org. Vitalant is the supplier to 96% of Arizona hospitals including the Flagstaff Medical Center. More information can be found in the attached flyer here.

Save the Date! KLC Rummage Sale June 5-6

The Kaibab Learning Center (KLC) is sponsoring a rummage sale fundraiser at the Grand Canyon Rec Center on Fri., June 5 from 4-7 p.m. and on Sat., June 6 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Household goods, clothing, camping gear, electronics, appliances, and much more will be available.

All proceeds from the Summer Garage Sale will directly benefit KLC by providing essential funds for improved educational materials, and enhanced programs for the children in the Grand Canyon community.

If you would like to donate items to the event, please contact Sarah or Amber at 928-699-0201. More information can be found in the attached flyer here.

*New changes to operations are indicated in red.

South Rim

Xanterra

• Maswik Food Court, 6 a.m.-9 p.m.
• Maswik Pizza Pub, 12-9 p.m. (food until 8:30 p.m.)
• Bright Angel Fountain, 6 a.m.-6 p.m.
• Harvey House Café/Fred Harvey Burger Restaurant, Breakfast 6:30-10 a.m., Lunch 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Dinner 4-9 p.m.
• Fred Harvey Tavern, 11 a.m.- 9 p.m. (food until 8:30 p.m.)
• Arizona Steakhouse, Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Dinner 4:30-9 p.m.
• El Tovar Dining Room and Lounge, Breakfast 6:30-10 a.m., Lunch 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Dinner 4:30-9:30 p.m., Lounge 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. (food until 9 p.m.), Outdoor patio from 12 p.m. until dusk (weather permitting)
• Food truck located at Grand Canyon Visitor Center shuttle bus bay: 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (weather permitting)
• Canyon Food Cart (Rim Trail between Bright Angel and El Tovar Lodges: 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (weather permitting)
• The Grand Canyon Kennel, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. daily
• Grand Canyon Rec Center, 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m. daily

Delaware North

• Yavapai Dining Hall, breakfast 7-10 a.m., dinner 5-8 p.m.
• Yavapai Lodge Tavern and Patio, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
• Coffee Shop, 7 a.m.-2 p.m.
• The Canyon Village Market, 7 a.m.-8 p.m., Deli 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
• Camper Services: Reopened as of Tuesday, April 28—7 a.m.- 6 p.m. daily. Last laundry load at 5 p.m., last shower at 5:45 p.m.

Other

• Grand Canyon Clinic: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Canyon Adventures Cafe and bike rentals: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Grand Canyon Visitor Center (GCVC): 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily
• Grand Canyon Conservancy stores: Kolb Studio, Visitor Center Plaza, Verkamp’s, and Yavapai Geology Museum: 8 a.m.-7 p.m. daily
• The Grand Canyon Community Library: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday from 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m.
• Grand Canyon Food Pantry: Monday 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Wednesday 5:30-7:30 p.m., Saturday 2-4 p.m.
• Grand Canyon Yoga—view the class schedule and learn more here.
• Shuttle Bus Spring Schedules (March 1 – May 22, 2026)
• Hermits Rest (Red) Route: 8:00 a.m. to one hour after sunset
• Village (Blue) Route: 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
• Kaibab Rim (Orange) Route: 6:00 a.m. to one hour after sunset
• Hikers’ Express: Daily departures from Bright Angel Lodge at 6:00, 7:00, and 8:00 a.m.; Departures from GCVC at 6:20, 7:20, and 8:25 a.m.
• Inner Canyon:
• CLOSED: River Trail east of River Resthouse to South Kaibab Trail junction through June 30, 2026
• CLOSED: Silver Bridge through June 30, 2026
• CLOSED: Plateau Point Trail through June 30, 2026
• CLOSED: North Kaibab Trail north of Ribbon Falls trail junction to the North Kaibab Trailhead through May 15, 2026

Desert View

• Desert View Watchtower, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. with last stair access at 5 p.m.
• Desert View Trading Post, ice cream, and coffee shop, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
• The Desert View Deli and Market, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
• Desert View Gas Station (24 hours via pay at pump)
• Desert View Campground: OPEN for 2026 season

North Rim

• Reopening of Hwy. 67 at the North Rim Entrance Station will be at 6 a.m. on May 15, 2026
• Reopening of the North Kaibab Trail from the North Kaibab Trailhead to Ribbon Falls junction on May 15, 2026
• Reopening of Cottonwood Campground on May 15, 2026

Please visit the Grand Canyon National Park website for a complete list of closures and available amenities.

• Aerial photo of sunrise at Point Imperial on the North Rim, April 2026 (Arizona Office of Tourism photo)
• Aerial photo taken of the most recent break in the pipeline along the lower North Kaibab Trail (NPS Photo)
• Fee staff at the South Entrance Station (NPS Photo/M. Quinn)
• Carliss Sinquah standing next to his artwork (NPS Photo)

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