North Rim Reopens for 2026 Season

Grand Canyon National Park officially reopened the North Rim for the 2026 season on May 15. The park extends a heartfelt thank you to Grand Canyon Conservancy, the Arizona Trail Association, and Aramark and for their support and partnership in helping ensure reopening remained on schedule for the 2026 season.

Visitors hiking the upper portion of the North Kaibab Trail between Supai Tunnel and the Trailhead are advised to use increased caution while traveling through areas affected by the Dragon Bravo burn scar. Burned landscapes can increase the risk of flash flooding, debris flows, rock falls, erosion and falling trees, particularly during monsoon storms or periods of heavy rain. In cooperation with the U.S. Geological Survey, the park has expanded flash flood monitoring and emergency preparedness efforts throughout the Bright Angel Creek watershed, including the installation of new stream and precipitation gages and enhanced visitor notification systems. Hikers are encouraged to closely monitor weather conditions and heed all posted warnings.

The North Rim General Store is open daily through Sept. 7 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering grab-and-go food, dry goods, bottled water and limited supplies. The nearby gas station is also open daily with pay-at-the-pump unleaded and diesel fuel available. Potable water is not available anywhere on the North Rim, including at the North Kaibab Trailhead and Supai Tunnel. Visitors should bring all drinking water needed for their visit and hikes.

The North Rim Campground is expected to reopen for tent and RV camping, without hookups, once conditions allow. An opening date will be announced when confirmed, and reservations will be available through recreation.gov.

Stage 2 fire restrictions also went into effect on the North Rim on May 15 and will remain in place for the duration of the 2026 season due to high fire danger. Campfires, warming fires, charcoal grills and outdoor smoking are prohibited. LPG-fueled devices, such as camp stoves and lanterns, are permitted only when used in areas cleared of flammable materials.

Visitors are encouraged to check the park website for the latest updates before traveling to the North Rim. Additional information is available on the North Rim status page.

Summer Shuttle Bus Schedule Begins Saturday, May 23

The park’s shuttle bus system will transition to the summer schedule beginning Saturday, May 23 and run through September 11, 2026.

Buses on the Village (Blue Route) and Hermit Road (Red Route) routes will run every 15 minutes during the early morning hours, then every 10 minutes during most of the day. The Kaibab Route (Orange Route) to the South Kaibab Trailhead and Yaki Point runs approximately every 15 minutes from 5 a.m. to one hour after sunset.

• The Village (Blue) Route begins service at 6:30 a.m. and runs through 9:30 p.m.
• The Hermit Road Route (Red) will begin service at 8 a.m. The last bus will sweep approximately one hour after sunset.
• The Kaibab Rim (Orange) Route begins service at 5 a.m. with service until one hour after sunset.
• The Hiker’s Express Bus (aka “Kaibab Express”), from Bright Angel Lodge and the Backcountry Information Center — to South Kaibab Trailhead will run with departures at 4, 5, and 6 a.m.
• The Tusayan (Purple) Route, with service from Grand Canyon Visitor Center to the Town of Tusayan, will run every 45 minutes from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Visitors riding the bus from Tusayan into the park must present a valid park entrance pass when boarding the bus.

For more information on the shuttle bus routes and times, for the summer season, visit the park’s website here.

APS Public Safety Power Shutoff – After Action Review Takeaways

Grand Canyon National Park managers recently held an after-action review with APS regarding the expedited Public Safety Power Shutoff that occurred on April 22, 2026.

APS explained that the weather event was a rare occurrence. Meteorologists had been tracking the system for several days, and all forecasting models consistently indicated it would not come close to Grand Canyon Village. However, on the morning of the shutoff, forecasters detected a significant shift in the pattern that placed severe fire weather conditions directly over Grand Canyon Village, leaving little time for advance notice. While the short notice was understandably difficult, we appreciate APS’s commitment to public safety and their swift action under those circumstances. They have assured the park they will continue monitoring conditions closely and will notify us as early as possible when similar situations arise.

If you did not receive notification about the power shutoff, please use this link to update your contact information so you can be reached in future events. For residents who have life-sustaining medical equipment in their home—whether for yourself or another occupant of your household, please complete the application at the link here. By completing the application, APS will be made aware of your critical need for uninterrupted power and can account for that when making shutoff decisions.

Summer Village Ranger Programs begin Friday, May 22

Join our rangers for a variety of engaging, free programs that dive into the park’s natural and cultural history. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. Please note that outdoor programs may be canceled due to inclement weather or lightning. A flyer for these programs can be found here.

9:00 a.m. | Rim Walk

Meet at Bright Angel Trailhead

Walk along the Rim Trail and learn about the canyon’s diverse ecosystems, ever-changing landscape, or rich cultural heritage. Topics change daily and this program lasts approximately one hour.

2 p.m. | Critter Chat

Meet at Verkamp’s Visitor Center

Join a ranger for a 30-minute program about the magnificent creatures that make Grand Canyon a wild place.

3 p.m. | Geology Talk

Meet at Yavapai Geology Museum

Dive deep into Grand Canyon’s geological history. Explore the ancient rocks and landscapes that have shaped this natural wonder. The canyon is a geologically young landscape, continually sculpted by forces acting on much older rock layers.

The Cultural Demonstration Program will host three artists May 26-28 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Desert View Watchtower.

Featured artists include Diné silversmith Rose Fowler, whose handcrafted jewelry reflects generations of Navajo artistry and design traditions; Diné beadwork artist Penny Fowler, who creates intricate beaded works rooted in cultural storytelling and craftsmanship; and Waldo Davis, a Zuni fetish carver known for creating detailed stone carvings that hold cultural and spiritual significance within Zuni traditions.

May Cultural Demonstration Performances in Grand Canyon Village

Visitors and residents are invited to experience a series of special cultural demonstrations throughout May featuring Indigenous music, dance and storytelling. Each respective performance will take place at 9:30 a.m. at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center and again at 1 p.m. along the Rim Trail in front of Hopi House.

On Friday, May 22, Gary and Elsie Elthie and Farell Nez of the Diné (Navajo) Nation will present traditional and contemporary Native American music and dance rooted in their Diné heritage. On May 24, Hopi artist, Ryon Polequaptewa, will share traditional flute, drum and hoop dancing passed down through generations of his family. On May 29, the Dischii’ Bikoh (Cibecue) Apache Crown Dancers, led by Joseph Tessay, will offer a unique opportunity to experience and learn about Apache culture and traditions through dance and performance.

These free programs provide meaningful opportunities for visitors and the local community to connect with the living cultures and traditions of the region’s Tribal communities. More information on these performances can be found in the attached flyer here.

Senior Graduation Parade and Ceremony—TONIGHT!

Celebrate the 2026 Phantom Senior Class by coming out for the Senior Graduation parade on Thursday, May 21! Beginning at 4:45 p.m., the parade will travel through most residential areas on the South Rim and end at the school track. Honk, shout, or wave to the school’s accomplished Seniors as they proceed through the residential areas.

A flyer for the event can be found here as well as well as a map of the parade route.

Memorial Day 21-gun salute at Pioneer Cemetery

On Monday, May 25, American Legion, John Ivens Post 42, will hold its annual Memorial Day 21-gun salute ceremony at the Pioneer Cemetery, located to the west of the Shrine of the Ages. This special event is open to the public to honor Veterans buried in the cemetery.

The event will begin around 11 a.m. and residents here in the park can expect to hear blank rounds being fired on or around this time.

Grand Canyon Community Library Welcomes Author Stephanie Petrie

The Grand Canyon Community Library will host author and intuitive life coach Stephanie Petrie on Wednesday, May 27, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. for a reading and book signing featuring her latest release, The Four Seeds of Wisdom.

The book explores themes of intuition, higher awareness and personal growth while offering tools to help readers align with their purpose and recognize meaningful connections in everyday life. Community members are invited to attend this free event at the library with more information available in the attached flyer here.

GCC Hosts Community Dinner Thursday, May 28

Grand Canyon Conservancy will host its next Community Dinner on May 28 from 6-8 p.m. in the Navajo Room at The Squire Resort. The complimentary dinner is open to all South Rim and Tusayan residents, including employees and families from the National Park Service, Grand Canyon Conservancy, Xanterra, Delaware North, Grand Canyon Unified School District, Forest Service, and local community businesses.

More information can be found in the attached flyer here.

‘Thank You’ to Grand Canyon Community from 8th Grade Class

The Grand Canyon School 8th grade class would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Grand Canyon community for making this year’s Washington, D.C. field trip possible. Highlights included meeting Senator Mark Kelly, visiting Arlington National Cemetery, laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and exploring the many stories that shape our nation’s history.

Students returned inspired by conversations about college, careers, citizenship and public service. Everywhere they traveled, they were complimented on their respect, curiosity and professionalism. Thank you to the community for supporting and encouraging these students and helping create an experience they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.

Tusayan Blood Drive on May 30 and June 9

The Tusayan Fire District will host a community blood drive with Vitalant on Saturday, May 30 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. There will be an additional blood drive at the Grand Canyon Rec Center on Tuesday, June 9 from 9 a.m.-1 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 (Tusayan) or here (Grand Canyon Village).

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.

Music Time Classes Offered beginning June 6

Families with young children are invited to join music educator Sarah Billerbeck for “Music Time,” a child-centered music class focused on singing, dancing, movement and hands-on instrument play.

Classes will be held Saturdays from June 6–27 from 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. at the Grand Canyon Recreation Center. The program is open to children ages 6 months to 6 years old accompanied by a caregiver.

The class operates on a sliding scale/pay-what-you-can model.

To register, visit https://form.jotform.com/261245183179056 or email Sarah at sarahb2500@gmail.com. For additional information, see the attached flyer here.

Grand Canyon Community Library Announces 2026 Summer Reading Challenge

Something big is coming to the Grand Canyon Community Library! The library’s 2026 Summer Reading Challenge will run from June 8 through July 24 with a fun dinosaur-themed program the whole community can enjoy. Sign-ups begin Monday, June 8, with additional details and activities to be announced soon.

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., effective Sat., May 23: breakfast 7-10:30 a.m., dinner 5-9 p.m.
• Yavapai Lodge Tavern and Patio, 11 a.m.-9 p.m., effective Sat., May 23: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
• Coffee Shop, 7 a.m.-2 p.m., effective Sat., May 23: 6 a.m.-3 p.m.
• The Canyon Village Market, 7 a.m.-8 p.m., Deli 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m., effective Sat., May 23: 7 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
• Camper Services: 7 a.m.- 10 p.m. daily., Camper Services Grab n Go: 7 a.m.-8 p.m.

Other

• Grand Canyon Clinic: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., effective on Sat., May 23: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. Pharmacy hours will remain the same on Monday, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10 a.m.-2 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.-8 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.
• Spring Shuttle Bus Schedule (March 1 – May 22, 2026)
• Hermits Rest (Red) Route: 8 a.m. to one hour after sunset
• Village (Blue) Route: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Kaibab Rim (Orange) Route: 6 a.m. to one hour after sunset
• Hikers’ Express: Daily departures from Bright Angel Lodge at 6, 7, and 8 a.m.; Departures from GCVC at 6:20, 7:20, and 8:25 a.m.
• Summer Shuttle Bus Schedule (May 23 – Sep. 11, 2026)
• Hermits Rest (Red) Route: 8 a.m. to one hour after sunset
• Village (Blue) Route: 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
• Kaibab Rim (Orange) Route: 5 a.m. to one hour after sunset
• Hikers’ Express: Daily departures from Bright Angel Lodge at 4, 5, and 6 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

Desert View

• Desert View Watchtower, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. with last stair access at 6 p.m.
• Desert View Trading Post, ice cream, and coffee shop, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m., effective Sat., May 23: 8 a.m.-7 p.m.
• The Desert View Deli and Market, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m., effective Sat., May 23: 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Desert View Gas Station & Service Station Retail, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. with 24-hour pay-at-the-pump access

North Rim

• General Store (adjacent to the campground), open May 15 to September 7 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily
• Gas Station – 24- hour self-serve pay-at-the-pump; gas and diesel available. Open May 15 to September 7.

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

• Bison near the North Rim Entrance Station on May 14, 2026 (NPS Video/C. Kraus)
• U.S. Park Ranger Tim Hopp opens the gate at the North Rim Entrance Station on May 15 (Photo courtesy of Tess Crowley, Deseret News)
• Sunrise at Point Imperial (Photo courtesy of Arizona Office of Tourism/Radmen Niven)
• Students from the 8th grade class stand in front of the Washington Monument (Photo courtesy of Janna Radarian)
• Photo collage of the 2026 Grand Canyon School Bike Rodeo (NPS Photos/J. Morris)
• U.S. Park Ranger Tim Hopp opens the gate at the North Rim Entrance Station on May 15 (Photo courtesy of Tess Crowley, Deseret News)

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