Shuttle offers easy access to the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is a wonder of the world, but long lines and crowded parking lots at Grand Canyon National Park can have visitors wondering if they’ll ever get out of the car to see it.
Shuttle service from Tusayan, a mile south of the park entrance, to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center in the park can save time and stress. The service starts March 1, just in time for the busy springbreak travel period, and continues through Sept. 30. Shuttle buses run at 20-minute intervals from 8 a.m.-9:45 p.m. daily. Riders must have a valid park pass, which can be purchased online in advance or in Tusayan at the IMAX Theater, RP’s Stage Stop, Canyon Plaza Resort or Red Feather Lodge.
Avoid the long entrance line
There are several reasons not to drive into the park.
❚ Shuttle riders bypass the long lines of cars waiting to enter. Waits can be more than an hour during the busiest
times.
Parking lots often fill up by 11 a.m. Drivers have to deal with road work in the park.
About 211,000 riders used the shuttle last year. Officials say that meant about 35,000 fewer vehicles entered the park.
“Riding the shuttles helps protect resources, reduces crowding on park roadways and reduces our carbon footprint,” Grand Canyon National Park Superintendent Chris Lehnertz said in a press release.
Four stops in Tusayan
Shuttle riders can park their vehicles anywhere in Tusayan. The shuttles make four stops: the IMAX Theater/RP’s Stage Stop, Best Western Grand Canyon Squire Inn, The Grand Hotel and Big E Steakhouse and Saloon.
Buses take riders to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center. There, visitors have easy access to walking paths, scenic viewpoints and other services. They can also hop on the free shuttle buses to hotels, trailheads, Grand Canyon Village and other highlights.
More about shuttles, traffic and parking
Grand Canyon National Park: www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/ shuttle-buses.htm.
Parking and road conditions on Twitter: @GrandCanyonNPS.
South Entrance Station webcam: www.nps.gov/grca/learn/photosmulti media/webcams.htm.