Shuttle boarding at the West Rim Interchange.

The South Rim Shuttle Bus System

For more than 30 years the National Park Service has provided a free shuttle bus system on the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. Visitors and residents have made 75,000,000 boardings. Many of the buses use compressed or liquefied natural gas, a much cleaner burning fuel. Some of the buses have provisions for improved accessibility. Riding the shuttles makes your stay more enjoyable, while reducing pollution and decreasing traffic congestion.

How do I use the free shuttle buses?

The map below (shown on pages 8-9 of the 2008 Grand Canyon Spring Guide) is the key. The map shows routes, stops, operating times, and route lengths. Park your vehicle in one of the parking areas, proceed to the nearest bus stop, and board the next bus. It is that simple. The buses come by every 15–30 minutes. There are no tickets to obtain, and you are free to get on and off at any stop. The routes are designed so you can ride to a stop, enjoy the view, shop at a gift store, or walk along the rim and then hop on a later shuttle.

Download the Spring 2008 South Rim Village Map (477kb PDF File)  March 1 - May 24, 2008

Download the complete Spring 2008 South Rim Guide from our Newspaper Page.

Planning your Trip in the Summer, Fall or Winter ?
Download one of last season's South Rim Guide/ Shuttle Bus Maps

Where do the shuttles go?

There are three shuttle routes. They do not overlap, although they interconnect. Buses are identified with a colored square near the boarding door.

Hermits Rest Route (red) The western-most loop winds along the rim for seven miles to Hermits Rest, stopping at scenic viewpoints along the way. Between March and November of 2008. Grand Canyon National Park intends to repave and improve this historic road. If you plan to visit during this time, read more about closure periods and alternative activities here:
http://www.nps.gov/grca/parkmgmt/hermit.htm

Village Route (blue) This loop connects the visitor center, lodging, restaurants, gift shops, and campgrounds. It may be the best way to get to many of the ranger programs.

Kaibab Trail Route (green) Leave from Canyon View Information Plaza and go to the South Kaibab Trailhead and viewpoints along the rim.

Download the Spring 2008 South Rim Village Map (477kb PDF File) March 1 - May 24, 2008, to learn more about the shuttle routes, stops, and times.

Some additional shuttle bus Information

Buses may be white, white with a green stripe, or brown and tan. The route is indicated by a colored square near each door. Many buses also display the route name on the front of the bus. Pets are not permitted on shuttle buses. Service animals for visitors with disabilities are allowed.

The Hermits Rest Route or West Rim Drive (Red Route) is NOT in service between December 1 and February 29. During those three months ONLY, the Hermits Rest Road is open to private vehicles. This narrow road winds seven miles past numerous overlooks to Hermits Rest. It may be closed during inclement weather. Watch for hikers and bicyclists along the road.

Because most park shuttle buses are not yet accessible for wheelchairs, an accessibility permit can be obtained in the park at entrance gates, the visitor center at Canyon View Information Plaza, Yavapai Observation Station, Kolb Studio, El Tovar registration desk, and the Bright Angel Lodge transportation desk. The permit allows access to some areas closed to the general public traffic. Accessible shuttle buses may be available in response to requests made at least 24 hours in advance. Call 928-638-0591.