The iconic Phantom Ranch at the bottom of the Grand Canyon will be closed for three months next year.
According to the National Park Service, the closure will be in effect from Jan. 2 to March 30, 2025. It's necessary to allow crews to safely complete extensive excavation work for the Trans Canyon Aqueduct Project.
The pipeline carries water from Roaring Springs near the North Rim, across the canyon, to the South Rim. The aging infrastructure frequently breaks down, interrupting water service and sometimes taking days to repair. A recent breakdown forced the closure of South Rim lodgings ahead of the busy Labor Day weekend.
Officials hope to complete the $200 million pipeline replacement by 2027.
Park officials say the closures are necessary to ensure the safety of staff and visitors during the pipeline construction work, and several more closures are scheduled for the coming months.
- From Oct. 21 to May 14, 2025, at Havasupai Gardens and Bright Angel Trail north of Silver Bridge.
- Bright Angel Campground November 4th to May 14th, 2025
- The Plateau Point Trail will be open from the Tonto Trail Junction north of Havasupai Gardens to Plateau Point until May 14, 2025.
The upper Bright Angel Trail from the South Rim to Havasupai Gardens and Tonto Trail will remain open, and the South Kaibab Trail will also be open to all hikers.
