News Release

National Park Service Welcomes Visitors Back to the North Rim for the 2026 Summer Season

Date: May 21, 2026
Contact: [e-mail]

Grand Canyon National Park, AZ — Grand Canyon National Park today announce it has reopened the North Rim for the 2026 summer season, following the 2025 Dragon Bravo Fire. Visitors can once again experience the North Rim’s overlooks, trails and visitor services. 

“As families and visitors travel to the Grand Canyon National Park over Memorial Day weekend, the National Park Service is committed to ensuring they can experience its extraordinary scenery, recreation and heritage safely and responsibly,” said Jessica Bowron, comptroller exercising the delegated authority of the Director of the National Park Service. “We appreciate the tremendous work of park staff and partners to restore access to the North Rim for the 2026 season and help visitors once again enjoy this iconic landscape.” 

All paved roadways within the park are open, including Highway 67, Cape Royal, and Point Imperial Roads. The entire North Kaibab Trail reopened May 15 for foot traffic only; stock use is suspended for the season. Trail maintenance and rehabilitation work will continue along the North Kaibab Trail throughout the 2026 season. Hikers should anticipate temporary trail closures or delays while crews continue to repair the trail. 

“The North Rim remains one of the most extraordinary places in the National Park System, and we are pleased to welcome visitors back for the 2026 summer season,” said Superintendent Ed Keable. “As recovery work continues following the Dragon Bravo Fire, we encourage visitors to plan ahead, travel safely and experience this remarkable place responsibly.” 

Visitors hiking the upper North Kaibab Trail between Supai Tunnel and the North Kaibab Trailhead should use increased caution while traveling through areas affected by the 2025 Dragon Bravo Fire 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, Grand Canyon National 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 monitor weather conditions closely and heed all posted warnings. 

Cottonwood Campground reopened on May 15, offering an overnight option for hikers traveling along the North Kaibab Trail. Backcountry use will be permitted in most areas of the North Rim. The Backcountry Information Center will provide the most up-to-date information on closures, conditions, and overnight permit availability. 

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 and provides unleaded and diesel fuel through pay-at-the-pump service.  

Potable water will not be available anywhere on the North Rim during the 2026 season, including at the North Kaibab Trailhead and Supai Tunnel. Visitors must bring all drinking water needed for their visit and hikes. 

The North Rim Campground is expected to reopen for tent and RV camping, minus hookup availability, once conditions allow. An opening date will be announced when confirmed, and campsite reservations will be available on recreation.gov. 

Stage 2 fire restrictions 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, except within enclosed vehicles. Liquid petroleum or LPG-fueled devices, such as camp stoves and lanterns, are permitted only when used in an area cleared of flammable materials. Fireworks and other incendiary devices are always prohibited on public lands. 

Visitors are encouraged to check the park website for the latest updates before traveling to the North Rim. For additional information, visit www.nps.gov/grca/northrimstatus.htm.   
 

nps.gov 

About the National Park Service.  Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.