Temporary Closures Along the Silver Bridge and Bright Angel Trail
The Grand Canyon announced that it is beginning repair work on electrical utility lines on the Silver Bridge (Hiker Bridge) crossing the Colorado River starting April 13 and continuing through May 7, 2021. This will cause the closure of the Silver Bridge Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. until the work is completed. Weekends will be unaffected.
The section of trail between Pipe Creek and the Silver Bridge along the River Trail could experience temporary delays as crews work on the utility lines near the trail. Be prepared to cross the Black Bridge at the base of the South Kaibab Trail to avoid the closure. Using the Black Bridge from the Bright Angel Trail will add about one mile to and from Phantom Ranch.
NPS News Release: Grand Canyon Announces Temporary Closures Along the Bright Angel Trail and Silver Bridge near Phantom Ranch
East Entrance Re-opens
After being closed since April 1, 2020, the East Entrance gate to the Grand Canyon re-opened on April 8. Working with tribal and state officials as well as local and community leaders, the decision was made to re-open Hwy 64 with appropriate precautions.
The closure meant to minimize visitor traffic through the Navajo Nation which was hit hard by the pandemic. While Hwy 64 provides a drive-through option for accessing the park, mask-wearing is required on the Navajo Nation. All roads other than state and federal highways are closed to non-residential traffic on the reservation.
There are no services available at Desert View at this time. The campground, store, café, and gas station are closed until further notice. The closest services are 30 miles to the east at Cameron or the South Rim at Grand Canyon Village to the west.
NPS News Release: Grand Canyon Re-opens East Entrance Gate 4-8-2021
Always Check the Latest Park Updates
As always, check the latest updates on the park’s site for the latest openings, closures, and precautions. Grand Canyon has a page specifically dedicated to all of these in one place, Grand Canyon National Park Public Health Update. Be sure to check it out and make sure your visit is as enjoyable and trouble-free as possible!
Happy trails!