Grand Canyon pipeline fixed, overnight stays allowed starting Thursday, Sept. 5

LAS VEGAS ( KLAS ) — Grand Canyon National Park is easing water restrictions, allowing overnight lodging to begin again on Thursday, Sept. 5, after closures that were in effect for Labor Day weekend.

The decision follows the successful repair of a break in the Transcanyon Waterline — the 12½ mile-long pipe that supplies water for operations on the South and North Rim. Officials reported on Saturday that complex repairs were completed and water was pumping without any new breaks. National Park Service (NPS) officials today announced the move from Stage 4 to Stage 3 water restrictions, effective Thursday.

“This transition to Stage 3 is a step toward normalizing park operations while ensuring the sustainable management of water resources. We appreciate the cooperation and patience of our visitors and community members as we work to restore these vital visitor services,” according to a statement in an NPS news release.

Grand Canyon National Park will operate under Stage 3 water restrictions until water storage tanks have filled enough to allow routine water conservation practices.

Park officials said the temporary halt to overnight lodging didn’t appear to keep visitors away over the long weekend. Parking lots were full and there were “considerable waits” at the south entrance to the park. Official visitation numbers weren’t immediately available. “The park was really busy,” officials said.

A series of four breaks over several weeks led to the extreme step to curtail overnight stays. The pipeline is undergoing a $208 million upgrade expected to finish in 2027. It was originally built in the 1960s.

Beginning Sept. 5, overnight accommodations will resume at park lodges. This includes facilities operated by Xanterra, such as El Tovar, Bright Angel Lodge, Maswik Lodge, and Phantom Ranch, as well as Delaware North’s Yavapai Lodge and Trailer Village. Reservations are now open, and visitors can book stays at these locations.

Dry camping will still be permitted with water spigots at Mather Campground and Desert View Campground still turned off. Visitors can access water at the Mather Campground check-in kiosk.

Fire restrictions will continue for the South Rim, prohibiting all wood burning, charcoal fires, and campfires in South Rim and inner canyon areas to support water conservation efforts.

The park will continue to observe the following conservation measures:

• Limit showers to five minutes or less
• Turn off faucets while shaving or brushing teeth
• Flush toilets selectively
• Wash laundry with full loads
• Report leaks to park authorities

Following waterline repairs, potable water along the North Kaibab Trail, including at Phantom Ranch, is now available. Hikers should still prepare to bring or treat water if necessary. For current water status in the inner canyon, visit the park’s Critical Backcountry Updates page: https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/trail-closures.htm

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