Grand Canyon Reopens Major Hiking Trails After Deadly Summer Flooding
Hikers can once again explore several popular routes inside Grand Canyon National Park after devastating summer floods forced their closure. The reopening comes nearly two months after flash flooding killed three hikers and left extensive damage throughout the inner canyon.
The South Kaibab Trail, River Trail, and portions of the Bright Angel Trail are among the routes welcoming visitors back following repair work.
The Aug. 29 disaster damaged bridges and other infrastructure near Phantom Ranch, prompting widespread closures as crews assessed the destruction and began repairs.
On Oct. 26, the National Park Service (NPS) announced that several damaged trails were ready to reopen, although hikers will encounter ongoing restrictions and some areas remain off-limits.
Several Trails Reopen After Weeks of Repairs
The South Kaibab Trail is open again below The Tipoff, along with the entire River Trail connecting South Kaibab to Bright Angel. Hikers can also use the Bright Angel Trail between Mile-and-a-Half Resthouse and Havasupai Gardens.
That stretch of Bright Angel remains closed to pack animals while crews finish additional repairs. Visitors should also prepare for occasional delays or temporary closures, which could occur with little warning.
The reopening marks progress after flooding swept through Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area on Aug. 29. According to an earlier NPS announcement, the disaster damaged trails, bridges, utilities, and other infrastructure, leaving some areas unsafe for visitors.
Three hikers died in the flooding, which also prompted an evacuation of more than 80 people. Complicating recovery efforts was the substantial damage dealt to the park’s water infrastructure from the flooding.
Major Closures and Water Restrictions Remain
Despite the reopened trails, hikers won’t be able to access every part of the inner canyon. The Black Bridge and Silver Bridge, which cross the Colorado River, remain closed, as do Phantom Ranch and the entire North Kaibab Trail.
Additionally, the NPS says drinking water will remain unavailable at Mile-and-a-Half Resthouse, Three-Mile Resthouse, and Havasupai Gardens for the remainder of the winter season.
Anyone planning a hike must bring sufficient water, along with appropriate filtration or treatment equipment. Visitors should also allow extra time for their trips, since trail conditions and ongoing construction could slow travel.
Park officials warn that emergency response times may be longer than usual in the inner canyon, and rescue cannot be guaranteed. Entering areas that remain closed could also result in a citation.
No reopening dates have been announced for the remaining closed areas. Hikers can consult the park’s trail update page for the latest conditions and water availability before setting out.
