March 18th, 2008

West Tonto Trail (photo by Brian Lane)
Latest Scoop On Trail Closures
I called the backcountry office at Grand Canyon NP this afternoon and this is the latest on trail closures:
* North Kaibab Trail
: The trail is open to hikers (but still has mule & horse restrictions).* Tanner Trail: Work is completed on the washed out sections and the trail has been reopened.
* South Bass Trail: The road to the trailhead is closed for the immediate future. This old road is greasy any time it gets wet and was probably damaged this winter. This effectively closes this trailhead.
* Hermit Trail: The Park Service will be starting major construction on Hermit Road (West Rim Drive) on April 1st. Starting on that date anyone using the Hermit Trailhead must use the special shuttle which leaves the Backcountry Office (Information Center) to get to the trailhead (drop-off only). The shuttle will leave the Backcountry Office at 5:00am & 6:00am in April, and at 4:30am & 5:30am in May. Anyone hiking in the Canyon on or after April 1st will not be allowed to exit the Canyon via Hermit Trailhead. In June, July & August the Hermit Trailhead will be closed and no shuttle will be provided. Nor will anyone be allowed to drive, park, or even walk along Hermit Road (West Rim Drive). Construction is scheduled to last through fall 2008.
Remember again: Before setting out on a hike into the Grand Canyon you should always check with the Backcountry Information Center - either stop by the Backcountry Office or call (928) 638-7875 (Mon-Fri;
1-5 PM Arizona Time). Let them know your itinerary and ask if there is any new trail info you should be aware of.

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