Place

Grand Canyon South Entrance Station

Multiple lines of cars wait in line at a two peaked wooden building that covers the lanes.
Be prepared for a wait most of the year at South Entrance Station - especially during midday.

NPS

Quick Facts
Significance:
Park Entrance Station

Entrance Passes for Sale, Information, Information - Maps Available, Information - Ranger/Staff Member Present

Welcome to Grand Canyon National Park

The South Entrance Station is the entry point for most visitors. Located in the state of Arizona, it is 55 miles (89 km) north of Williams, Arizona via SR 64 from I-40; and 80 miles (129 km) north of Flagstaff, Arizona via US 180 from I-40 or I-17. This is the closest entrance station to Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim of the park.

South Entrance Station is 1.6 miles (2.5 km) north of the gateway town of Tusayan, and 4.9 miles (7.8 km) south of Grand Canyon Visitor Center. 

During spring break and summer, plan on arriving before 9:30 am or after 4 pm. Lines can be long with up to two hour wait times between 9:30 am and 4 pm. 

If you are reading this while waiting in the line to enter the park, here's information about getting around, where to park, and suggested activities: South Rim 2025 - Helpful Tips >

  • Reservations are not required to enter Grand Canyon National Park.

  • We do not have timed entry.

Entrance Fees and Passes

Entrance passes to Grand Canyon National Park are valid for one to seven days. Entrance to both the South Rim and the North Rim of the park is included. (When the North Rim is open, May 15 through October 15.)

No refunds are given due to inclement weather.

  • At Grand Canyon National Park's Entrance Stations, credit and debit cards, and America the Beautiful passes are accepted for entry. Cash is no longer accepted.
     
  • It is possible to purchase an entrance pass with cash or credit/debit cards from some of the businesses in the gateway town of Tusayan. You will pass through Tusayan on your way to the South Entrance of the park

Help me choose an entrance pass

  • You may enter the park with a Standard, Annual, or America the Beautiful Pass.
    • The fee for a Standard entrance pass is $20.00–$35.00.
    • As of January 1, 2026, Nonresidents (16 and over) must pay an additional $100 per person fee or hold an America the Beautiful Non-Resident Annual Pass.
 
  • No refunds are given due to inclement weather.


At Grand Canyon National Park's Entrance Stations, credit and debit cards, digital passes, and America the Beautiful passes are accepted for entry. Cash is no longer accepted.

Educational Groups and Commercial Tours

Educational Fee Waivers

Educational Fee Waivers are not issued automatically. Educational groups must apply and meet the criteria to receive a fee waiver. Details >

Organized, Non-commercial Groups >
Organized, non-commercial groups include church groups, college or school groups, scouts, service organizations, military, etc.

Commercial Tours

Commercial Tour Fees >
Fees are based on vehicle capacity for all tour groups and bus companies that originate outside a 100-mile (160 km) radius of an entrance station to Grand Canyon National Park. Taxis are classified as commercial tours since they do not have regularly scheduled service.

Grand Canyon National Park

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Last updated: January 2, 2026