Grand Canyon National Park has tightened water restrictions on the South Rim again after a string of new breaks in the Transcanyon Waterline, the aging pipeline that brings water up from the inner canyon. The park says no water is currently being pumped to the South Rim, and the added conservation measures began Saturday, April 11.
What’s Changing for Visitors
The South Rim is still open for day use, but overnight stays inside the park are being scaled back to conserve water. Park lodging remains open at reduced occupancy, and guests with affected reservations are being contacted directly by Xanterra and Delaware North. Hotels and lodging in Tusayan are not affected.
Camping is also still available, but is now dry camping only. Water spigots at Mather and Desert View campgrounds have been turned off, though restroom facilities are still working, and water remains available at Dump Stations. Campfires and charcoal fires are also restricted.
Park officials are asking everyone to cut back on water use by taking shorter showers, turning off faucets when not in use, and waiting to do laundry until full loads.
What Is Still Open
Even with the tighter restrictions, the park says South Rim visitor services are still operating. Food and beverage service, the Grand Canyon Clinic, Canyon Village Market, and the Post Office remain open.
What Hikers Should Know
Backcountry hikers should not count on water being available where they might normally expect it. The park says hikers need to carry their own water and have a way to treat it if necessary. The NPS recommends checking the park’s Key Hiking Messages page for the latest conditions before heading out.
No timeline has been given for repairs or the lifting of restrictions. For the latest updates, visit The Grand Canyon’s website at https://www.nps.gov/grca/index.htm.
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