The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular destinations in the United States, and planning your trip is essential. To have a great experience, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the park’s layout, entrance fees, directions, and free entrance days.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide, complete with a Grand Canyon map in Arizona, to help you plan your adventure!
Grand Canyon Entrance Fees
Grand Canyon National Park charges fees to enter. These fees help keep the park running, support preservation efforts, and fund new improvements.
There are a few different ways to pay:
- Private Vehicle: $35
- Motorcycle: $30
- Individual: $20
- Grand Canyon Annual Pass: $70
Kids under 16 get in free. There are also discounts for seniors, active members of the military, and people with disabilities.
Finally, you can also use the “America the Beautiful Pass,” which gets you into more than 2,000 federal recreation areas.
Navigating the Grand Canyon: Key Locations & Directions
The Grand Canyon is a vast and complex landscape, and knowing how to get around is key to making the most of your visit. Here’s a quick guide to some essential locations.
South Rim Access
The South Rim is the most accessible and popular area of the park, open year-round. You can reach it by taking I-40 to Highway 64 North, or from the south via Highway 180. Just follow the signs!
North Rim Access
The North Rim, with its higher elevation, offers a different perspective but is only open seasonally, typically from mid-May to mid-October. Take US 89A south from Jacob Lake, Arizona, to reach the North Rim entrance.
Lodging Directions
Need to find your hotel or campsite? Here are a few directions to get you started.
- Yavapai Lodge: Located within Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim.
- Trailer Village RV Park: Also situated in Grand Canyon Village, close to Mather Campground.
- Desert View: Located 25 miles east of Grand Canyon Village along Desert View Drive (Highway 64).
Planning Your Visit: Free Entrance Days and Activities
The National Park Service offers several free entrance days each year, so you can experience the Grand Canyon without paying the usual entrance fee. Here are the free days scheduled for 2025:
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day
- The first day of National Park Week
- Juneteenth
- Veterans Day
You can explore the Grand Canyon in a number of ways, including via tours, ranger programs, and self-guided explorations. Check the National Park Service website for more information about activities and planning your visit.
In Conclusion
Planning and preparation are essential for a safe and unforgettable Grand Canyon visit. We hope the information we’ve provided helps you make the most of your trip to this spectacular national park.
Before you go, be sure to check the official National Park Service website for the most up-to-date information on conditions, closures, and safety guidelines.