Shoshone Point event site is available for reservation between May 15, and October 15, by groups wishing to host a wedding, celebrate a birthday, conduct a memorial service, hold a family reunion, or a similar non-commercial event. NPS Photo/M. Quinn
Grand Canyon National Park is home to many beautiful landscapes which make it a popular place for weddings and special events. Most special events and activities held in the park require a special use permit, issued only after the National Park Service (NPS) determines that the activity will not impair the park's resources or impair values, visitor experiences, or the purpose for which the park was established. 36 CFR 2.50
Please email Commercial Services at grca_permits_mail@nps.gov if you would like to review the specific conditions for your requested event prior to submitting your application.
Note:
Special Use Permits only allow the use of the permitted area. The permit does not provide for, or include, any services or amenities.
Applications are only accepted up to 1 year in advance.
Ash Scattering: The park will no longer issue permits authorizing the scattering of human remains from cremation.
Grand Canyon National Park has permanently suspended permitting the scattering of human cremains (ashes) within the park. The park’s Special Use Permit (SUP) program is no longer issuing permits for ash scattering at Grand Canyon. This decision was made after extensive interdisciplinary review and formal comment from our 11 traditionally associated tribes.
Grand Canyon, the Colorado River, Little Colorado River, and their surrounding areas are significant sacred sites rooted in the traditional history and cultural identity of Grand Canyon’s associated tribes. Based on associations with the cultural practices, traditions, beliefs, lifeways, and social institutions of traditional native communities, these areas combined are a Traditional Cultural Property eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic places pursuant to 36 CFR 60.4.
The practice of scattering ashes at Grand Canyon is considered disrespectful to many indigenous people and traditional communities. As such, the permitting of the activity could constitute an adverse impact to the Traditional Cultural Property at Grand Canyon and is incompatible with the park’s goal of recognizing indigenous beliefs.
Under 36 C.F.R. § 2.62(b), the scattering of ashes is prohibited at Grand Canyon National Park. This activity is inconsistent and interferes with the NPS’s efforts to comply with the National Historic Preservation Act, 16 U.S.C. § 470 et seq., and the Native American Grave Protection and Repatriation Act, 25 U.S.C. § 3001 et seq.
Non-refundable application fees are as follows:
Special Event: $425
Rim to Rim: $250
Wedding (non-Shoshone Point locations): $240
Shoshone Point: $500
Shrine of the Ages: $275
Do not submit any payment information with your application. Payment instructions will be emailed after application is received.
Please note that the application fee for special use permits is charged to recover costs of the permit approval process and is non-refundable (per 54 U.S.C. 103104, OMB Circular A-25, and NPS Reference Manual 53 Chapter 10). These fees include costs associated with permit processing and program administration.
Already know which type of SUP you need? Skip to the Application Form
Special Events
A special use permit is required for activities that provide a benefit to an individual, group, or organization rather than the public at large. 36 CFR 2.50 These activities require some degree of management from the National Park Service if there is the potential for interference with visitor use, congestion of a highly visited area, or possible impact on park resources. Special Use Permits are required for organized group activities and special events at Tuweep. Requests for such activities are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Contact our office for more information, including location and date availability. Application Form -- Fees
Organized Group Rim-to-Rim and Extended Day Hike/Run:
Any organized, non-commercial group of 12-30 participants, or not-for-profit group conducting rim-to-rim, rim-to-rim-to-rim, rim-to-river-to-rim, and/or extended day hikes in the inner canyon must obtain a Special Use Permit. The inner canyon is defined as the area below the Tonto Platform from the South Rim and below Manzanita Resthouse from the North Rim. Groups may not break into smaller groups on different permits to accommodate group size. Commercial Rim-to-River-to-Rim Day Hiking is Prohibited: Commercial companies and paid guides are prohibited from conducting or sponsoring Rim-to-River-to-Rim day hikes. Commercial day hikes will not be advertised as endurance events. 36 CFR § 1.5 (a)(2)
Extended Day-Hike Permit Requirement:
Organized Non-Commercial Groups - defined as any group traveling together, such as scouts, a club, a church, a meet up group, or a family/friend group that has created its own itinerary. Group size is between 12-30 people. 11 people or less do not require a permit.
Not-for-Profit Groups - defined as a group that may meet the criteria for a non-commercial group if the organization derives no taxable income from providing leisure/recreational services. Groups must prove 501(c)(3) status. Group size is between 12-30 people. 11 people or less do not require a permit.
Fundraiser Groups - defined as any group seeking or raising financial support for a charity, institution, or other enterprise. Group size is limited to 30 people. A permit is required for all Fundraiser Groups, regardless of group size.
What will be required with the SUP?"
An application fee of $250
It is recommended the group provides a certificate of insurance for general liability in the amount of $300,000 with the United States Government listed as additionally insured.
Group size is limited to 30 individuals, including all organizers and trip leaders.
The permittee and its organization (club, non-profit, group, etc.) is allowed to obtain one permit per day. If your group is doing a back-to-back extended day hike with a night spent on the rim, you must apply for an SUP for each day.
All groups will maintain a ratio of no less than 1 trip leader with certification in Basic First Aid and CPR for 1-7 participants or 2 trip leaders with certification in Basic First Aid and CPR for groups up to 15 participants, and 3 trip leaders with certification in Basic First Aid and CPR for groups up to 30 participants. Proof of certification is required with application.
All non-profits applying to operate under an SUP must provide proof that the Internal Revenue Service currently recognizes the applicant as an organization to which contributions are tax deductible under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Any individual who has been compensated, including subsidized participation, must prove 501(c)(3) status.
Non-profits are prohibited from making taxable income under an SUP.
Additional conditions and further details of these requirements will be outlined in the SUP.
Grand Canyon National Park's inspiring viewpoints and natural settings are ideally suited for small, simple and quiet weddings. All ceremonies, regardless of size, require an approved Special Use Permit issued by the National Park Service. Weddings may be scheduled up to 1 year in advance. We do not allow many things traditional weddings usually request: chairs, tables, flowers, amplified sound, balloons, signs, etc. at any location. Special Use Permits only allow the use of the permitted area. The permit does not provide for, or include, any services or amenities.
Please review the Wedding Webpage for a list of authorized locations in the park and indicate your first and second choice location on the application.
To check if your desired location and date is available, please contact our office via email.
Please note that Cape Royal Amphitheater and Point Imperial Viewpoint on the North Rim and Shoshone Point on the South Rim are only available May 15 to October 15 due to road closures and lack of facilities during the winter months.
Instructions for how to pay the nonrefundable application fee will be emailed to you after we confirm receipt of application. By law, we must recover costs associated with managing these permits and sites through these fees. Application form Fees Wedding Webpage
For information on lodging, catering or reception availability please contact hotels and facilities directly. You can find information about lodging in the area at: https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/lodging.htm
Beginning on January 1, 2022, Shoshone Point can only be reserved for a maximum 6-hour block of time between an hour before sunrise and an hour after sunset.
The National Park Service offers a site on the South Rim of Grand Canyon for reservation by groups wishing to host a wedding, celebrate a birthday, conduct a memorial service, hold a family reunion, or any similar non-commercial event. The season is May 15 - October 15.
Shoshone Point Road is a one-mile unimproved dirt road, low clearance vehicles are not recommend. Walking is always an option. No more than 5 vehicles may park out at Shoshone at any one time. Commercially marked vehicles are not allowed. Vehicles over 22 feet are not allowed. Catering vehicles may be authorized, please list the request in the application.
The dirt road leads to this isolated area with spectacular views of Grand Canyon. The site features a covered pavilion, picnic tables, grills, trash cans and a vault toilet. There is no water or electricity at the site.
Shoshone Point is the place for people who can be flexible with their planning and can deal with unpredictable Grand Canyon weather.
To check if your desired location and date is available, please contact our office via email.
Located just west of Park Headquarters, the Shrine of the Ages is an National Park Service facility that is used for a variety of events. The Shrine features an auditorium with seating for 250 and a smaller, multipurpose room which seats up to 60 people. Food and alcohol are not permitted within the building.
If you are interested in reserving the Shrine, please contact our office via email to check on availability prior to submitting an application. Application form--Fees
To check if your desired location and date is available, please contact our office via email .
Freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly are constitutional rights. However, the courts have recognized that activities associated with the exercise of these rights may be reasonably regulated to protect park resources.
When is a permit needed?
Individuals or groups planning to hold a demonstration in a park are encouraged to contact us in advance to discuss the proposed activity. The NPS may reasonably regulate certain aspects of First Amendment activities, such as the time when, the place where, and the manner in which the activity is conducted.
Designated First Amendment Sites
Grand Canyon has several designated sites for first amendment activities. Based on 36CFR 2.51 and 2.52 groups of 25 people or fewer may use these areas without a permit as long as they are not using stages, platforms, structures, or sound systems. These areas are available on a first-come, first-served basis, however, and small groups may want to obtain a permit to ensure they have the use of the area.
Groups over 25 people and groups using stages, platforms, structures, or sound systems, or for distribution of printed matter (36 CFR 2.52) need to apply for a permit for a designated area.
First Amendment Special Events
Some examples of special events that fall under First Amendment Rules:
distribution and/or sale of printed matter
religious services
public demonstrations or assemblies, etc.
Permit Fees
There are no permit fees associated with First Amendment permits. Please contact Commercial Services at e-mail us for more information about Designated First Amendment sites or the application process. Application form
Please email your application to grca_permits_mail@nps.gov or send completed and signed application to:
Grand Canyon National Park
Commercial Services Division
3 Camper Services
PO Box 129
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023
Email is the preferred method of submitting applications. After favorable review of your application, a Special Use Permit will be prepared and e-mailed to you for your signature. Upon receipt, you will need to review, sign and return the permit to our office for final approval. After the permit is approved we will email you an authorized copy. The approved permit must be in your possession at the time of your wedding or event.
We require a minimum of 4 weeks to fully process a basic permit request. Do not wait until the last minute to apply for your permit. No requests are expedited; no exceptions. Complex special events may require more than 4 weeks to process.
Special Use Permit Fees
Permit Fees non-refundable and are based on an annual cost recovery analysis conducted by Commercial Services. These fees include the cost of permit processing, administration and the basic monitoring of events. Larger events or other special uses that require additional management and/or administrative time will incur additional fees at $65.00 per hour.
Do not include payment information on your application submission. Our office will email you detailed online payment instructions after we confirm receipt of your application.
Permit Type
Application Fee
Special Event
$425
Extended Day Hiking (R2R)
$250
Wedding Permit (non-Shoshone Point)
$240
Shoshone Point
$500
Shrine of the Ages
$275
Special Use Permit General Conditions for Commonly Issued Permits
Conditions for Special Use Permits are listed here and are subject to change.
Please review the conditions on your initial permit during the permitting process.
The Permittee must perform the work or conduct the activities authorized by this permit in accordance with the permit’s terms and conditions and in accordance with all applicable federal, state, or local law, including the regulations in 36 C.F.R. chapter I; the regulations in 43 C.F.R. part 5; and all applicable workplace-safety and public-health orders, rules, and requirements. If the Permittee fails to do so, then the Superintendent of Grand Canyon National Park (Superintendent) may immediately suspend or revoke this permit without notice.
The Superintendent may immediately suspend or revoke this permit without notice if destruction of, loss of, or injury to any park property or resource has occurred, is occurring, or appears imminent. In accordance with the System Unit Resource Protection Act, 54 U.S.C. §§ 100721-100725, any person that destroys, causes the loss of, or injures any park system unit resource will be liable to the United States for response costs and damages resulting from the destruction, loss, or injury.
The Superintendent may revoke this permit at any time after providing 24 hours’ written notice to the Permittee setting forth the reasons for the revocation.
If this permit is revoked for any reason or upon its expiration, the Permittee must repair all damage to park property or resources in accordance with the Superintendent’s direction and must restore the Permitted Area to its original, pre-permit condition.
The Permittee must obtain all federal, state, or local permits, licenses, inspections, or other reviews or approvals legally required to perform the permitted work or conduct the permitted activities.
This permit does not grant the Permittee exclusive use of the Permitted Area. Unless the Superintendent restricts public access to or closes the Permitted Area in accordance with 36 C.F.R. § 1.5, the Permitted Area will remain open to the public to the same extent that it is open to the public during regular park visiting hours, and the permitted work or activities may not unduly interfere with the public’s use and enjoyment of the Permitted Area.
This permit may not be transferred or assigned to another party without the Superintendent’s prior written approval.
The Permittee waives all demands, claims, and causes of action against the United States and its officers, employees, agents, and representatives, and releases the United States and its officers, employees, agents, and representatives from all liability, arising out of or resulting from the permitted work or activities. The National Park Service issues this permit upon the express condition that the United States and its officers, employees, agents, and representatives will be free from all liability of any sort whatsoever arising out of or resulting from the permitted work or activities. Accordingly, the Permittee hereby agrees to indemnify, defend, and save and hold harmless the United States and its officers, employees, agents, and representatives from and against all liability of any sort whatsoever arising out of or resulting from the permitted work or activities.
If the Superintendent requires liability insurance as a condition of issuing this permit, then the Permittee must obtain general liability insurance against claims occasioned by the acts or omissions of the Permittee and its officers, employees, agents, representatives, and contractors while performing the work or conducting the activities authorized by this permit. The policy must be in the amount of $ N/A per occurrence and $ N/A aggregate; must be issued by a company licensed to do business and in good standing in the state of Arizona; and must name the United States of America as an additional insured. The Permittee must provide the Superintendent with a Certificate of Insurance with the proper endorsements before the permit’s effective date.
If the Superintendent requires a bond as a condition of issuing this permit, then the Permittee must deposit with the Park, before the effective date of this permit, a bond in the amount of $ N/A from a bonding company licensed to do business and in good standing in the state of Arizona or in the form of cash or cash equivalent, to guarantee that all financial obligations to the Park will be satisfied.
As authorized by 54 U.S.C. § 103104 or 54 U.S.C. § 100905 and in accordance with other applicable law and policy, the National Park Service will recover all costs of providing necessary services associated with this permit, including the costs of administering the permit and monitoring the permitted work or activities. The National Park Service may bill the Permittee for either actual costs or estimated costs. Payment is due at the time of billing. If the National Park Service bills the Permittee for estimated costs, and actual costs exceed the estimated amounts, then the National Park Service will bill the Permittee for the excess. If the National Park Service bills the Permittee for estimated costs, and actual costs are less than the estimated amounts, then the National Park Service will refund the difference to the Permittee after the permitted work or activities have concluded and the permit has expired or been terminated. Under no circumstances will the National Park Service be liable for interest on any refunded amount.
The Permittee designates«Individual_In_Charge_of_activity_onsite», at «Ind_in_charge_phone_number», as the on-site person responsible for adherence to the permit’s terms and conditions. The on-site person must have full authority to make all decisions about the permitted work or activities; must be reachable at all times; and is responsible for all persons or entities performing the permitted work or activities, including the Permittee’s contractors and subcontractors.
Nothing in this permit binds the National Park Service to expend in any one fiscal year any sum in excess of appropriations made by Congress or allocated by the National Park Service for the purpose of this permit, or to involve the National Park Service in any contract or other obligation for the further expenditure of money in excess of such appropriations or allocations.
If any provision of this permit is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions of this permit will not be affected and may be enforced to the full extent authorized by applicable law.
Use of the National Park Service Arrowhead Symbol is governed by 36 C.F.R. part 11. The Arrowhead Symbol is the official emblem and a registered trademark of the National Park Service. The National Park Service must authorize any use of the Arrowhead Symbol, including incidental use. Using the Arrowhead Symbol for advertising, promotional, or other commercial purposes is prohibited. Unauthorized use of the Arrowhead Symbol may subject an individual to criminal penalties under 18 U.S.C. § 701.
Approval of the special use permit does not constitute and should not be construed as a Government endorsement of the permittee's views, activities, products, goods, services, or enterprise. The permittee shall not refer to special use permits awarded by the National Park Service for commercial purposes, in advertising, or in a manner which states or implies that, by issuing the special use permit, the views, activities, products, goods, services, or enterprises undertaken pursuant to this permit are approved of or endorsed by the Government.
Credit Lines may be approved through additional terms and conditions.
Federal regulations prohibit any person from knowingly giving false information on an application for a permit and from knowingly giving a false report for the purpose of misleading a government employee or agent in the conduct of official duties. 36 C.F.R. §§ 2.32(a)(3) and 2.32(a)(4). Any violation of those regulations will result in this permit’s immediate revocation.
All individuals participating in the permitted event or activity must wear masks in accordance with the current mask-wearing requirements in the Superintendent's Compendium, which is available on the park's website or from the Superintendent's office.
A copy of this permit shall be kept on site with the permittee at all times while exercising this permit and shall be made available upon request of NPS personnel.
Participants and guests should behave as normal visitors. The event does not have priority over normal visitor activities. The permit fee does not include entrance fees for the wedding party and guests. The minister, photographer, and others providing contracted wedding services are not subject to entrance fees.
Nothing may be attached to any natural or historic object or to any National Park Service sign, fence, bench, post or vegetation. Participants may not draw attention to themselves or to the event. Banners or signage including directional signage will not be allowed without prior approval from the National Park Service.
Amplified sound and equipment, including but not limited to electronic musical instruments, microphones, speaker units, etc. is prohibited. Voice communication will be at a minimum level to adequately address the immediate event audience. Vocal communication with or to the public shall not exceed normal conversational volume (60 decibels). 36 C.F.R. §§ 2.12(a)(1)(i). Shouting or raising voice volume to call the attention of the public is prohibited. Vocal communication with or to the public shall not unreasonably disturb nonparticipating person in, or in the vicinity of, the area.
The use of a generator is prohibited.
Do not litter: Nothing may be thrown or released (butterflies, rice, flowers (real or artificial), birds, silly string, confetti, balloons, etc.) at the event site or within the Park's boundaries.
The permittee must maintain the area in a clean and neat manner at all times. Permittee or an authorized representative must continually monitor the permitted and surrounding area and keep it free of any trash generated by the activity. Permit holder (event host) is responsible for cleaning up and removing all trash generated as a result of this event.
Flowers are limited to hand-held bouquets and boutonnieres.
No set-up is permitted. Shade structures, arches, tents, tables, banners signs, balloons, carpet runners, etc. are prohibited.
Ceremonies must occur on hardened areas at the event site and must not impact vegetation in any way.
Permittee will initial the bottom of each page of this permit as an indication that they have read and agreed to all of the terms and conditions in the permit
If any participant violates permit conditions, it is the permittee that will be cited.
A copy of this permit shall be kept on site with the permittee at all times while exercising this permit and shall be made available upon request of NPS personnel.
Participants and guests should behave as normal visitors. The event does not have priority over normal visitor activities. The permit fee does not include entrance fees for the wedding party and guests. The minister, photographer, and others providing contracted wedding services are not subject to entrance fees.
No set-up is permitted. Shade structures, arches, tents, tables, banners signs, balloons, carpet runners, etc. are prohibited.
Nothing may be attached to any natural or historic object or to any National Park Service sign, fence, bench, post or vegetation. Participants may not draw attention to themselves or to the event. Banners or signage including directional signage will not be allowed without prior approval from the National Park Service.
Amplified sound and equipment, including but not limited to electronic musical instruments, microphones, speaker units, etc. is prohibited. Voice communication will be at a minimum level to adequately address the immediate event audience. Vocal communication with or to the public shall not exceed normal conversational volume (60 decibels). 36 C.F.R. §§ 2.12(a)(1)(i). Shouting or raising voice volume to call the attention of the public is prohibited. Vocal communication with or to the public shall not unreasonably disturb nonparticipating person in, or in the vicinity of, the area.
The use of a generator is prohibited.
Do not litter: Nothing may be thrown or released (butterflies, rice, flowers (real or artificial), birds, silly string, confetti, balloons, corks from champagne bottles, etc.) at the event site or within the Park's boundaries.
The permittee must maintain the area in a clean and neat manner at all times. Permittee or an authorized representative must continually monitor the permitted and surrounding area and keep it free of any trash generated by the activity. Permit holder (event host) is responsible for cleaning up and removing all trash generated as a result of this event.
Flowers are limited to hand-held bouquets and boutonnieres.
Alcohol may be served under the proper laws and guidelines.
Ceremonies must occur on hardened areas at the event site and must not impact vegetation in any way.
A maximum of 5 vehicles are allowed at Shoshone Point at any one time. All other vehicles must park in the lot outside the gates to Shoshone Point.
Commercial marked vehicles are not allowed at Shoshone point or in the dirt parking lot.
Vehicles over 22 feet in total length are prohibited down dirt road to Shoshone Point or in the dirt parking lot.
Permittee will initial the bottom of each page of this permit as an indication that they have read and agreed to all of the terms and conditions in the permit.
If any participant violates permit conditions, it is the permittee that will be cited.
A copy of this permit shall be kept on site with the permittee at all times while exercising this permit and shall be made available upon request of NPS personnel.
Keys: Seven (7) days before the day of your event, you must contact Mary Zylo by email at mary_zylo@nps.gov to arrange a time to pick up the key for the Shrine of the Ages. An authorized copy of the permit is required at time of pickup.
This permit does not infer special preference over normal visitor activities. The permit fee does not include entrance fees for event guests. The minister, photographer, and others providing contracted wedding services are not subject to entrance fees.
Participants may not draw attention to themselves or to the event. Banners or signage including directional signage will not be allowed without prior approval from the National Park Service.
Amplified sound and equipment, including electronic musical instruments and keyboards are allowed, however the volume must not exceed excessive decibels which might disturb neighboring facilities and visitor use. The use of a generator is prohibited.
Equipment: Permittee must provide their own supplies including flipchart, paper, tape, markers, etc. There are no supplies available on site.
Keep instructional materials such as flip charts, posters and training aids off the painted wall surface. Easels or free-standing bulletin/erase boards should be used.
Permittee is prohibited from using audio/visual equipment that is owned by the National Park Service without written approval from the NPS.
Permittee is prohibited from serving food/ drinks inside the building.
All users are responsible to set up the rooms to their desired configuration and then returning it to its original arrangement.
The room must be left in the same condition that they are found. Please report any noted damage or rooms found in poor condition to Mary Zylo by email at mary_zylo@nps.gov.
Permittee is responsible for the removal of trash that exceeds the capacity of provided receptacles.
Nothing may be thrown or released (butterflies, rice, flowers (real or artificial), birds, silly string, confetti, balloons, corks from bottles, etc.) at the event site or within the Park's boundaries.
All exits must remain unobstructed in case of emergency.
Any open flame is prohibited including but not limited to candles, incense, or smoking within the building.
All users are responsible to secure the building when they are the last to leave, including checking all doors are locked, windows are closed and secured, and turning off all lights.
Permittee will initial the bottom of each page of this permit as an indication that they have read and agreed to all of the terms and conditions in the permit.
The permittee and its’ organization (club, non-profit, group, etc.) is not authorized to obtain more than one permit per day. If it is found that the permittee is an extension of another group already availing itself of an extended day hiking SUP on the same date, this permit will be revoked and permittee may be cited for violating the conditions of this SUP.
The permittee shall not install or erect any structures, fixtures or improvements in the park area; including but not limited to tents, tables, water/aid stations, etc.
The permittee is prohibited from the use of any signs, flags, banners, etc.
The permittee is prohibited from stashing any equipment, such as food, clothing, water backpacks, etc. along the trail or at the trailhead.
Vehicle Access- Vehicles larger than 22 feet are not authorized to access North Kaibab Parking lot. All vehicles are prohibited from accessing South Kaibab Road and parking. Parking along AZ State Highway 67 is not authorized.
Access- This permit does not convey priority use of park areas.The use herein authorized shall in no way interfere with the normal visitor activities and/or negatively impact park resources.
The permittee is prohibited from blocking access or impeding the flow of traffic along any roads, trails, walkways, greenways, or any National Park Service (NPS) or concessioner facilities.
The permittee will advise participants to stay on trails, walk single file, and allow the public to pass.
The permittee is prohibited from providing services within any area designated closed in the Superintendent’s compendium.
Human Waste– Groups are required to abide by all park rules regarding proper disposal of human waste in order to prevent the pollution of water sources, the spread of disease, and the aesthetic degradation of backcountry areas. Improper disposal of human waste is a violation of park regulations and violators are subject to fines. The use of backcountry toilets is preferred.
Do not Litter: The permittee and participants are responsible for removing all trash generated as a result of this event.
This permittee is prohibited from advertising, soliciting business, collecting any fees, or selling any goods or services on lands owned and controlled by the United States.
Reporting Accidents –All incidents resulting in serious physical injury, personal/government property damage, or injury to park wildlife or resources must be reported to park law enforcement as soon as possible at 928-638-7805 or by dialing 911. Permittee must remain on scene until the arrival of law enforcement officers. [36 CFR 2.33]
Separated Passengers/Rescues – Permittees are responsible for providing their participants with the necessary information to locate or contact their group if they become delayed or separated. Permittees may not abandon their participants in the park and are solely responsible for making arrangements for their participants to rejoin their group after being separated. Lost or missing participants must be reported to park dispatch as soon as possible and without unnecessary delay at 928-638-7805. While self-rescue is encouraged in cases where no additional resources are needed, the NPS retains the authority to make the determination to employ additional resources when the situation warrants.
Trip Leaders- The person named on the permit is in charge and will designate Trip Leaders with the expertise to conduct all activities authorized under this Special Use Permit.All groups will have designated Trip Leader/s with certification in First Aid/CPR/AED or higher.
All groups will maintain a ratio of no less than 1 trip leader with certification in Basic First Aid and CPR for 1-7 participants or 2 trip leaders with certification in Basic First Aid and CPR for groups up to 15 participants, and 3 trip leaders with certification in Basic First Aid and CPR for groups up to 30 participants.
One trip leader with First Aid/CPR/AED or higher must act as the “sweep” or last member of the group to assist with any injuries and to ensure that group members have exited the canyon.
Group Equipment – A group size first aid kit will be carried by each group. Trip leaders will carry sufficient equipment to ensure proper human waste disposal. Trip Leaders will also be prepared for emergency situations where they may need to revise their original trip plan to accommodate participants who may be struggling to complete their intended hike. Some recommended additional items include flashlight/headlamps, extra food, electrolyte supplements, water, a method for water treatment, and emergency overnight equipment.
Water- Permittee is required to provide the means necessary to provide potable water for participants in the case of a water emergency. For water availability, please contact the Backcountry information office at e-mail us or 928-638-7875. For additional information, please visit www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/safe-water.htm
Cigarette Smoking – Smoking on trails is highly discouraged. Smokers must use caution when smoking to prevent dropping ashes or embers that might ignite a wildfire. Cigarette butts are trash and must be packed out of the corridor/backcountry for proper disposal. Trip leaders will ensure that cigarette butts are disposed of properly. The permittee is responsible for abiding by all fire regulations and restrictions.
Food – All food scraps (fruit peels, nut shells, etc.) are considered trash and must be carried out. It is a violation to feed the wildlife, including squirrels.
Personal Consumption of Wild Edibles – Gathering of fruits, nuts, berries, edible plants, or plant parts for personal consumption is permitted. Wild edibles or other plant matter may not be gathered for transport outside the park or for commercial purposes.
Rock Climbing – Technical rock climbing is prohibited under the terms of this permit. Climbing is defined to include rock climbing, snow and ice climbing, mountaineering, canyoneering, and caving, where climbing equipment, such as ropes and fixed or removable anchors, is generally used to support an ascent or descent.
Competition- Competitive and/or timed events are not authorized under this permit.
Harassment- Harassment of and/or threats to park visitors or any NPS employee by the permittee or their participants will result in the suspension and/or revocation of this permit and possible citation. 36 CFR 2.34(a)
Persons engaged in this permitted activity are prohibited from threatening, resisting, intimidating, or intentionally interfering with a government employee or agent engaged in an official duty or on account of the performance of an official duty. 36 CFR 2.32(a)(1)
Permittee will initial the bottom of each page of this permit as an indication that they have read and agreed to all of the terms and conditions in the permit.
A copy of this permit shall be kept on site with the permittee at all times while exercising this permit and shall be made available upon request of NPS personnel.
The use herein authorized shall in no way impair the operation of public use facilities or services of National Park Service concessioners, holders of commercial use authorizations, or contractors. 36 CFR 2.51(c)(1)(iv)
The area should be left in substantially the same condition as it was prior to the activities authorized herein Permittee agrees to be fully responsible for the use, safety, and cleanup which might result from the permitted activity. Permittee or an authorized representative must continually monitor the permitted and surround area and keep it free of any trash generated by the activity. Any such trash collected shall be disposed of in an appropriate manner.
This permit may be revoked at the discretion of the superintendent should it reasonably appear that the public gathering presents a clear and present danger to public health and safety. 36 CFR 2.51(c)(1)(v)
All printed matter for distribution shall consist only of textual printed material such as books, pamphlets, magazines, and leaflets provided that it is not solely commercial advertising. 36 CFR 2.52(a) if applicable
The use of helium balloons is prohibited. Nothing may be attached to any natural or historic object or to any National Park Service sign, fence, bench, post or vegetation.
The permittee must maintain the area in a clean and neat manner at all times. The permittee(s) must not damage vegetation and remain on pavement at all times.
No sound amplification is allowed. Vocal communication with or to the public shall not exceed normal conversational volume (60 decibels). 36 C.F.R. §§ 2.12(a)(1)(i). Shouting or raising voice volume to call the attention of the public is prohibited. Vocal communication with or to the public shall not unreasonably disturb nonparticipating person in, or in the vicinity of, the area.
At no time will the permittee(s) block any entrance to a building, interpretive exhibit, trail or walkway or in any way obstruct or make it difficult for other individuals to use. Permittee must comply with Park Service requests to move in order to prevent obstruction of a public passage and refusal of such an order constitutes obstruction under 36 C.F.R. § 2.31.
Persons engaged in this permitted activity are prohibited from threatening, resisting, intimidating, or intentionally interfering with a government employee or agent engaged in an official duty or on account of the performance of an official duty. 36 CFR 2.32(a)(1)
The National Park Service reserves the right to display signs with wording such as “THIS AREA HAS BEEN SET ASIDE FOR INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS EXERCISING THEIR CONSTITUTIONAL FIRST AMENDMENT RIGHTS. THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE NEITHER ENCOURAGES OR DISCOURAGES OR OTHERWISE ENDORSES THESE ACTIVITIES.” The sign may also identify the group and issue involved and have available the name and address of the Superintendent of Grand Canyon National Park for comments. The permittee will be responsible for the placement and storage of signs as directed by park staff.
Permittee will initial the bottom of each page of this permit as an indication that they have read and agreed to all of the terms and conditions in the permit.
For more information about Special Use Permits; contact Commercial Servicesvia e-mail or phone at 928-638-7707 anytime and leave a detailed message with your specific question(s).
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