Grand Canyon Federal Shutdown Guide
If you are planning a trip to Grand Canyon National Park during the federal government shutdown, here is everything you need to know.
Quick Reference: What’s Open vs Closed
Open:
National Park access
Hotels and lodges
Restaurants and cafes
Gift shops and general stores
Library, laundry, and post office
Shuttle buses
Closed or Limited:
Visitor center
Ranger led programs
Reduced bathroom cleaning and trash collection
North Rim Partial Reopening — October 1, 2025
As of October 1, 2025, Grand Canyon National Park has announced a partial reopening of select areas of the North Rim following the Dragon Bravo Fire.
Highway 67 is open from the entrance to the W1 road (around mile marker 11).
Cape Royal Road is open, allowing access to both Point Imperial and Cape Royal.
Fire Point and Swamp Ridge are also open.
These areas will be open daily from official sunrise to official sunset through November 30, 2025, or until the first major snowfall. Overnight use is not allowed except at Swamp Point and Fire Point.
Looking for full details on the North Rim? Check out our complete update on the Grand Canyon North Rim Reopening.
Is the Grand Canyon Open During the Shutdown?
Yes, Grand Canyon National Park is open during the federal shutdown, and visitors will notice very little impact. Shuttles are still running, hotels and restaurants remain open, and all major viewpoints and trails are accessible.
The main differences are:
Bathrooms may not be cleaned as often
Trash collection is limited, so pack out your garbage
No ranger led programs until the government reopens
What’s Open at Grand Canyon During the Shutdown
Facilities run by private concessionaires and local partners continue normal operations, including:
All hotels and lodges
Restaurants and cafes
Gift shops and general stores
Library, laundry, and post office
Shuttle buses
What’s Closed at Grand Canyon During the Shutdown
Some services are not available during the shutdown:
Visitor centers are closed
Ranger talks and interpretive programs are paused
What Does This Mean for You
Day to day experience: Your visit will feel almost normal. Shuttles, dining, lodging, and shopping are open, but you may encounter less frequent cleaning in restrooms and limited trash service. Please carry out your trash.
Visitor information: With visitor centers closed, you can still get help. Ask employees at hotels, gift shops, or restaurants for directions and advice. You can also explore our Grand Canyon Guide for detailed tips.
How You Can Help During the Shutdown
The park belongs to all of us, and during a shutdown it is even more important to take care of it.
Pack out your own trash and pick up litter if you see it
Report vandalism, theft, or damage
Stay mindful of trails, plants, and wildlife
In the 2018 shutdown, some parks reported vandalism, theft, and destruction of fragile environments. Let’s make sure that does not happen here.
Best Things to Do at Grand Canyon During the Shutdown
Even with limited services, there are still incredible ways to experience the park:
Rent an e-bike: Ride all the way out to Hermits Rest for amazing overlooks and fewer crowds. Bikes must be returned by 5 pm.
Hike the Bright Angel Trail: This classic trail offers incredible canyon views and a true sense of scale. Only hike as far as you are able to climb back out, as first aid and rescue resources are limited during the shutdown.
Book a private tour: Whether it is a guided hike, photography tour, or local sightseeing experience, booking with a private operator supports local businesses and gives you insider knowledge.
Final Thoughts
The Grand Canyon is as awe inspiring as ever, even during a federal shutdown. With a little extra preparation and care, you can still enjoy an unforgettable visit while helping protect this national treasure for everyone who comes after you.
