Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: June 30-July 4, 2025

North Rim Enters Stage 3 Water Restrictions

As of July 1, the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park has entered Stage 3 water restrictions due to ongoing challenges in water delivery from Roaring Springs.

In early June, the park experienced multiple electrical and mechanical issues, including a failed automatic transfer switch at the power distribution center and a malfunctioning pump at Roaring Springs Pumphouse. Although initial repairs were made, a transmission fluid leak was discovered shortly after restarting the system, requiring another shutdown. Contractors are expected to initiate further repairs.

Key Stage 3 Actions:

• Water usage is being closely monitored by utility staff.
• Concessions and residents are urged to minimize water use where possible.
• Reduced toilet flushing in homes and the Grand Canyon Lodge.
• Restrooms at the Visitor Center and Grand Canyon Lodge are closed; portable toilets are available.
• Campground restrooms, dump/fill station, and water spigots remain operational.
• Spigots at the admin building, trailhead, and the visitor center are on.

Ongoing Water Conservation Measures (Stage 1 & 2):

• Report and repair all leaks.
• Run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads or in eco-mode.
• Reduce shower time and turn off taps while brushing teeth or shaving.

Employees and residents are encouraged to continue practicing water-saving efforts as repair efforts continue.

Two Cases of Zoonotic Disease Reported at Grand Canyon: A Reminder to Stay Vigilant

Grand Canyon National Park has recently confirmed two separate cases of zoonotic disease within the park—one involvinghantavirus and the other rabies—underscoring the importance of public awareness and proper safety precautions.

The first case involved a concessions employee who tested positive for hantavirus, a potentially fatal respiratory disease transmitted through contact with infected rodent droppings, urine, or saliva. While hantavirus cases are uncommon, the disease is present in the southwest. The employee is recovering at home, and park officials are reminding residents and visitors to take proper precautions when cleaning or spending time in areas where rodents may be present.

Hantavirus Prevention Tips:

• Avoid stirring up dust when cleaning—use gloves and disinfectant, not dry sweeping.
• Seal up holes and remove potential food sources that attract rodents.
• While camping, avoid sleeping directly on the ground and keep campsites clean.
• Rodent cleanup kits are available to park residents—contact Brady Dunne (928-638-7659) for more information.

The second incident involved a bat collected near River Mile 143 along the Colorado River that tested positive for rabies. Two individuals had physical contact with the bat and received medical evaluation and treatment.

This case serves as a critical reminder that all mammals, including bats, skunks, and foxes, are susceptible to rabies—a disease that is almost always fatal if untreated, but entirely preventable with timely post-exposure medical care.

Rabies Safety Tips:

• Never approach or touch wildlife. Report sick or strangely behaving animals to dispatch at: 928-638-7805.
• If you or someone in your group has had contact with a bat or wild animal, seek medical attention immediately.
• While on river trips, sleep in tents when possible and avoid handling wildlife.
• Ensure pets (in permitted areas) are vaccinated and leashed.

For more information about zoonotic disease awareness and prevention, visit the NPS Health and Safety webpage here.

2025 South Rim Village WUI Hazardous Fuels Treatments Project

The Grand Canyon South Rim Village, locally referred to as simply “the Village”, is comprised of approximately 2,500 residents. This area is comprised of approximately 82 acres of wildland urban interface (WUI) considered to be a high-value asset (important) to Grand Canyon NP, ranging from a historic district to newer homes for residents.

For hazardous fuels reduction treatments in the WUI, the NPS uses the International Code Council’s “International Urban-Wildland Interface Guide” as the foundation for defensible space and maintenance requirements. This work begins with village residents, who take the lead in managing hazardous fuels by raking, trimming branches (ladder fuels), and removing small trees and shrubs to reduce fire intensity and behavior. The South Rim wildland fire engine crews follow up by removing woody debris and hauling it to the South Rim Maintenance yard for winter burning. They also perform specialized cutting and trimming to meet defensible space standards.

This work has been completed annually for the last four years and will continue in the coming years, to mitigate wildland fire threats in the South Rim Village. Through active collaboration between residents and park management, the project not only enhances defensible space around homes but also fosters a sense of shared responsibility in wildfire risk reduction.

By adhering to established guidelines and implementing community-driven efforts, the Village is better equipped to manage hazardous fuels and mitigate potential fire threats. The ongoing commitment to these practices over the years underscores the importance of community engagement and proactive fire management strategies, ensuring the preservation of this cherished landscape for future generations. As the project progresses, it will continue to serve as a model for effective wildfire management in wildland urban interface areas.

Lowell Observatory has named a newly discovered asteroid in honor of Grand Canyon National Park Ranger Rader Lane, recognizing his outstanding contributions to dark sky preservation and education.

The asteroid, officially designated 30280 RaderLane, was announced by Lowell Observatory Historian and Public Information Officer Kevin Schindler in a special presentation attended by friends, colleagues, and park staff during the Grand Canyon Star Party last week.

Lane, who works with the park’s Dark Skies Program, has played a central role in making Grand Canyon National Park a global leader in night sky conservation. He coordinates the park’s annual Grand Canyon Star Party and helped lead the successful initiative to have the park certified as an International Dark Sky Park.

“Thank you to Kevin and Lowell Observatory for your partnership and support for Grand Canyon and the Dark Skies Program,” said Lane. “This was a night I will never forget—not least for the honor having been presented to me by a friend and colleague whom I greatly admire, but also for having so many of my favorite people in the park there to witness and show support.”

This recognition reflects the growing importance of night sky preservation in public lands and the vital role that park rangers play in connecting people to the cosmos. This work would not be possible without the generous support of Grand Canyon Conservancy, whose ongoing commitment to the park’s Dark Skies Program helps ensure that future generations can experience the wonder of a truly dark night sky.

New Behind the Scenery Podcast Now Available

“Learning from Landscapes” with Steve Bridgehouse

If you’ve received a backpacking permit on the North Rim in the past 10 years, there’s a good chance you’ve met Steve Bridgehouse. With 25 years of service with Grand Canyon National Park, Steve shares stories about his mentors, his connection to the landscape, and the personal insights the canyon continues to reveal—in the latest episode of the Behind the Scenery podcast.

Listen/Download on NPS Podcasts: https://go.nps.gov/bts or on Apple podcasts here.

A Southwest Perspective of American History with Ed Kabotie—July 4

Join us for a powerful and insightful discussion with Ed Kabotie (Tewa/Hopi) as he presents “A Southwest Perspective of American History” on Friday, July 4 at 8 p.m. at the McKee Amphitheater (located adjacent to the NPS Headquarters building). Through his unique lens as an artist, musician, and community leader, Ed will share an Indigenous perspective on historical narratives and their relevance to the Southwest.

More information can be found in the attached flyer here.

Leah Flake—Scientist in Park Intern, North Rim

I was born and raised in southwestern Indiana. I received my bachelor’s in public relations and advertising and continued on to complete my master’s in healthcare administration from the University of Southern Indiana. I am passionate about learning about more “complex” topics and breaking them down to make them more accessible for all education levels. Before my SIPs internship, I worked for 2 years at USI as the Gerontology Curriculum and Program Coordinator, connecting students, professors, and community members with resources in the field of aging. In my freetime, I volunteered at a local nature preserve, Wesselman Woods – the largest urban old-growth in the country – providing educational tours for elementary school groups to learn about the unique forest. I believe our species’ health and wellbeing goes hand-in-hand with the wellness of our planet and all its creatures.

What’s inspired you to serve as a Scientist-in-Park at Grand Canyon National Park?

Who wouldn’t want this job?! Besides getting to work outside at one of the most picturesque places on Earth, I was inspired to become a Scientist-in-Park at the Grand Canyon because of my interest in environmental conservation and nature. There is so much we can learn from the world around us and I believe that immersing myself into an experience such as this one will greatly expand my knowledge and will allow me to become a better steward for the planet. The more individuals we can educate on climate sciences, sustainability, and environmental conservation, the more likely we can create a better future for ourselves and our planet.

What are you most excited about for your internship?

Everything I’ve done so far and been told that I will do is exciting to me! So far (today is my third day as I’m writing this), I’ve been able to work at a visitor center and answer guest’s questions and even swear in a few junior rangers. There is nothing more exciting than seeing such young people so excited about our national parks. I’ve also been able to assist with a special program the North Rim is holding this week called Star Party. From a professional development perspective, I am most excited to participate in trainings that will teach me about identifying and reporting populations of species and search and rescue procedures. Additionally, I am thrilled to collaborate with the 11 Grand Canyon associated Native American tribes and help better represent their history and reflections through North Rim educational programming and materials.

Town of Tusayan Hosts July 4th Events on Friday

Employees, friends, and families are invited to join the Town of Tusayan for an Independence Day celebration on Friday, July 4, from 4–10:30 p.m. This free community event, themed “A Community of Unity,” kicks off with a parade at 4 p.m. and highlights Tusayan’s partnerships with Grand Canyon National Park and other local agencies.

Enjoy an evening filled with food, drinks, bike decorating, kids’ games, live music, a cornhole tournament, a Native dance performance, and great auction items. The night will close with a pet-friendly drone light show at dusk.

More information can be found in the attached flyer here.

Community Potluck & Live Music – Saturday, July 5

Join your village neighbors on Saturday, July 5 at 5 p.m. at the Grand Canyon Rec Center for food and live performances. All residents are welcome and are encouraged to bring their favorite dish or dessert to share. Live music will be performed by Tha ‘Yoties, Pink Slip, and Sage Bond.

More information can be found in the attached flyer here.

South Rim

Xanterra

• Maswik Food Court, 6 a.m.-9 p.m.
• Maswik Pizza Pub, 12-10 p.m. (food until 9:30 p.m.)
• Bright Angel Fountain, 5:30 a.m.-6 p.m.
• Harvey House Café/Fred Harvey Burger Restaurant, Breakfast 6:30 a.m.-10 a.m., Lunch 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Dinner 4-9 p.m.
• Fred Harvey Tavern, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily, (food until 9 p.m.)
• Arizona Steakhouse – Lunch 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Dinner 4:30 p.m.-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.-10 p.m. (food until 9:30 p.m.)
• The Grand Canyon Kennel, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. daily
• Grand Canyon Rec Center, 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m. daily
• Fred Harvey Food Truck at Grand Canyon Visitor Center, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Delaware North

• Yavapai Dining Hall, breakfast 7-10:30 a.m., dinner 5-9 p.m.
• Yavapai Lodge Tavern and Patio, 12-10 p.m.
• Coffee Shop, 6:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
• The Canyon Village Market, 7 a.m.-9 p.m., Deli 7 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
• Camper Services, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily
• Mather Campground Store, 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• Trailer Village Kiosk, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Other

• Grand Canyon Clinic: Open 7 days a week, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. through Labor Day
• Canyon Adventures Bike Tours and Cafe: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Grand Canyon Visitor Center (GCVC): 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily
• Grand Canyon Conservancy stores: Verkamp’s, Yavapai Geology Museum, Visitor Center Plaza-8 a.m.-8 p.m., Kolb Studio-8 a.m.-6 p.m.
• The Grand Canyon Community Library: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturdays from 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Tuesdays and Thursdays 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.
• Canyon Community Yoga & Wellness (at the Rec Center): Full class schedule can be found here. Use discount GCLOCALS at checkout.
• Shuttle Bus Summer Schedule (May 24-Sep. 7, 2025)
• Hermits Rest (Red) Route: 8:00 a.m. to one hour after sunset
• Village (Blue) Route: 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• Kaibab Rim (Orange) Route: 6:00 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Hikers’ Express: Daily departures from Bright Angel Lodge at 4, 5, and 6 a.m.
• Tusayan (Purple) Route, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. with service every 45 minutes
• Inner Canyon:
• CLOSED: River Trail east of River Resthouse to South Kaibab Trail junction: Oct. 21, 2024-Sept. 30, 2025
• CLOSED: Silver Bridge: Oct. 21, 2024-Sept. 30, 2025

Desert View

• Desert View Trading Post and ice cream and coffee shop, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Desert View Watchtower and store, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. with the last tower access at 6 p.m.
• The Desert View Deli and Market, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Desert View gas station (24 hours), retail: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

North Rim

• North Rim Visitor Center (GCC), 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
• NPS Backcountry Information Center, 8 a.m.-12 p.m., 1-5 p.m.
• General Store by campground, 7 a.m.- 8p.m.
• Guest Laundry and Showers, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. staffed, unstaffed from 7-10 p.m.
• Deli in the Pines, 6 a.m.-9 p.m.
• Roughrider Coffee House, 5:30-10:30 a.m., Saloon, 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.
• Grand Canyon Lodge Dining Room, breakfast 6:30-10 a.m., lunch 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., dinner (reservations required) 4:45-9:45 p.m.

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

• Sunset from the South Rim (NPS Photo/K. Besom)
• Water storage tank on the North Rim (NPS Photo/E. Shalla)
• Deer mouse (Photo courtesy of ADHS)
• Rader Lane accepting award at the 2025 Grand Canyon Star Party, L to R: Superintendent Ed Keable, Lowell Observatory PIO Kevin Schindler, Rader Lane, Astronomy magazine Editor Dave Eicher, and Chief of Interpretation AJ Lapre (NPS Photo/M. Quinn)
• Leah Flake, Grand Canyon SIP Intern (Photo courtesy of L. Flake)
• Cactus in full bloom near Village Loop (NPS Photo/K. Besom)