Grand Canyon Entrance Fees, Backcountry Permits: What to Know Before You Go
Do You Need a Reservation to Enter Grand Canyon National Park?
No reservations or timed entry tickets are required to enter Grand Canyon National Park at the South Rim, North Rim, or Desert View Entrance. Simply pay your entrance fee at the gate or show your valid America the Beautiful Pass.
Tip: This does not apply to the West Rim (Skywalk area), which is not part of Grand Canyon National Park but managed by the Hualapai Tribe and requires separate entrance packages.
Grand Canyon National Park Entrance Fees
- Private Vehicle: $35 per car, valid for 7 consecutive days.
- Motorcycle: $30 per motorcycle.
- Individual (on foot, bicycle, shuttle, or tour bus): $20 per person.
- Annual Grand Canyon Park Pass: $70 (good for the Grand Canyon only).
- America the Beautiful National Parks Annual Pass: $80 (access to all federal lands).
Free Entrance Days:
On these National Park fee-free days, your entrance fee is waived:- Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January)
- First day of National Park Week (April)
- National Park Service Birthday (August)
- National Public Lands Day (September)
- Veterans Day (November)
Note: Free days cover the park entrance fee only — camping, tours, or special permits still cost extra.
A backcountry permit is mandatory for certain overnight camping or off-trail activities in the park. Knowing when you need a permit can save you from fines or disappointment.
When You Need a Grand Canyon Backcountry Permit
- Camp overnight below the rim (e.g., Bright Angel, Indian Garden, Cottonwood Campgrounds).
- Camp anywhere outside of developed campgrounds like Mather, Desert View, or North Rim Campground.
- Stay overnight at Tuweep Campground.
- Camp anywhere on the North Rim between November 1 and May 14 (includes winter/ski camping).
- Do off-river camping during a river rafting trip.
- Camp with private stock (horses, mules) outside the standard campgrounds.
When You Don't Need a Backcountry Permit
- Doing day hikes or nighttime “day” hikes.
- Taking day rides with stock animals.
- Staying overnight in:
- Mather Campground
- Desert View Campground
- North Rim Campground (May 15–October 31)
- Phantom Ranch dorms or cabins (advance reservation required through Grand Canyon Lodges)
Grand Canyon Backcountry Permit Fees
- Permit application fee: $10 per request (non-refundable)
- Camping below the rim: $24 per person, per night
- Camping above the rim: $6 per person, per night
How to Apply for a Grand Canyon Backcountry Permit
- Start your permit request no earlier than 10 days before the first of the month, four months prior to your trip.
Example: For a January hike, apply on August 20. - Download the official Backcountry Permit Request Form from the National Park Service website.
- Submit by mail, fax, or in-person only — email or phone requests are not accepted.
- Allow at least 3 weeks for processing.
Walk-in Permits
If you miss the lottery or don’t get your permit, a limited number of last-minute permits are available daily at the South Rim and North Rim Backcountry Information Centers. You must show up in person, get on the waitlist, and be ready to claim your spot within 24 hours.
If your dream is to go whitewater rafting in the Grand Canyon, know which permit you need:
Types of River Permits:- 1-Day Commercial Smooth Water Trips — Half or full-day. No individual permit needed; just book with an authorized outfitter.
- Lees Ferry to Diamond Creek (Multi-Day Trips):
- Commercial Trips (Motor or Oar): 7 to 18 days, booked 1–2 years in advance.
- Non-Commercial Trips: 12–25 days. Must win a spot through the NPS weighted lottery.
- Diamond Creek to Lake Mead Trips: 2–5 day non-commercial trips, first-come, first-served (requires permit).
- Hike-In or Hike-Out Options: Many longer trips allow you to hike in or out at Phantom Ranch to shorten trip length.
Grand Canyon Getaway
Family-Friendly | Nearest to GNCP | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Williams Lodging
Canyon Dave Tours
Private Tours Available | Educational | Lunch Included | Family-Friendly | Family Business | Multi-Attraction Tours | Multi-Day Tours
Sheridan House Inn - Williams
No Children Accommodated | Romantic | Custom Options Available | Breakfast Included | Optional Intimate Personal Chef Cooked Dinners | Private Porch or Balcony | Hot Tub | Award-Winning | Williams Lodging
Raptor Ranch RV Park & Campground
RAPTOR RANCH Campground is only 20 MINUTES FROM THE SOUTH RIM ENTRANCE!
We are located close to the Grand Canyon. The campground offers 32 RV Sites, 25+ Tent Sites. FREE Raptor Flight Demonstrations to All Campers! and FREE admission to Bedrock City.
There is free WiF … More
RAPTOR RANCH Campground is only 20 MINUTES FROM THE SOUTH RIM ENTRANCE!
We are located close to the Grand Canyon. The campground offers 32 RV Sites, 25+ Tent Sites. FREE Raptor Flight Demonstrations to All Campers! and FREE admission to Bedrock City.
There is free WiFi Available in Lounge & Laundry Room. We have a Grocery Store on Site, Campfire Rings, Firewood Available at the Camp Store, Giftshop, Showers, Snacks, Coffee, and an Overflow Parking.
Check-In: 1:00 pm, Check-Out: 12:00 pm
Pet-Friendly | Outdoor Fireplace/Pit | BBQ/Grill | Propane Refilling Station | General Store | Shower | Dump Station | Community Restrooms | WiFi | Family-Friendly
Backland Luxury Camping
Take your loved ones on a trip they will never forget. Backland is a luxury eco-resort near the Grand Canyon. Completely surrounded by ponderosa pine forests, our one-of-a-kind tents, chef-prepared meals, and secluded location completely redefine the concept of glamping. Dine by the fir … More
Take your loved ones on a trip they will never forget. Backland is a luxury eco-resort near the Grand Canyon. Completely surrounded by ponderosa pine forests, our one-of-a-kind tents, chef-prepared meals, and secluded location completely redefine the concept of glamping. Dine by the fire in our glass-walled restaurant, relax with a massage in our tented spa, marvel at the grandeur of the universe through our complimentary telescopes, and take advantage of miles of nearby hiking trails.
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Features:
- Complimentary Breakfast
- Onsite Glass Walled Restaurant
- Onsite and nearby hiking trails
- Close to the Grand Canyon and dozens of local attractions
- Pond with sand beach, fishing, and kayaking
- Snowshoes and sledding onsite when it snows
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Tents feature:
- Panoramic windows
- Huge stargazing skylights over the beds (Skyview tents only)
- Automatic climate control, fully insulated, and energy-efficient
- King-sized beds
- Full en-suite bathroom with showers
- Luxury linens
- Electricity in tents
- Tentside parking + electric vehicle charging at reception
- Private Outdoor patios
- Coffee makers + mini-fridges
- Ecological toiletries + water conservation fixtures
Pet-Friendly | Fireplace(s) | Family-Friendly | Things to Do in Williams | On-site Restaurant | Outdoor Gear Rental Available | Games Provided | Hot Drinks Provied | Eco-Friendly | Spa | Breakfast Included | Williams Lodging
The Squire at Grand Canyon
Family-Friendly | Outdoor Pool | Pet-Friendly | Whirlpool Tub | On-site Restaurant | ADA Accessible | Nearest to GNCP | Fitness Center
Grand Canyon South Rim Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale with Sedona
Leaves from Phoenix/Scottsdale | Family-Friendly | Hotel Pickup | Professionally Guided | All Fees Included
Western River Expeditions
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Wildland Trekking
Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Shuttle Services Provided | Gear Rental Available or Provided | Meals Included | Multi-Day Tours
Private Grand Canyon Hiking Tours
Professionally Guided | Lunch Included | Shuttle Services Provided | Hotel Pickup
Maverick Helicopter Tours from GCNP Airport
Canyon Spirit is a Grand Canyon helicopter tour that departs from the South Rim, taking you over the beautiful Kaibab National Forest, home to the world's largest stand of Ponderosa pines. Upon reaching the edge, the rim drops away as the magnificent Grand Canyon comes into full view. … More
Canyon Spirit is a Grand Canyon helicopter tour that departs from the South Rim, taking you over the beautiful Kaibab National Forest, home to the world's largest stand of Ponderosa pines. Upon reaching the edge, the rim drops away as the magnificent Grand Canyon comes into full view.
Leaves from Tusayan | Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided
Best Grand Canyon Day Tour
Private Tours Available | Shuttle Services Provided | Lunch Included | Multi-Attraction Tours | Additional Tour Options Available | Professionally Guided | Family-Friendly
Grand Canyon South Rim Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale
Marvel at the beauty that is the South Rim during this Grand Canyon Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale. Highlights include a day trip to visit Arizona’s breathtaking Grand Canyon National Park, a scenic drive with views of the San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff, and several viewpoints at the … More
Marvel at the beauty that is the South Rim during this Grand Canyon Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale. Highlights include a day trip to visit Arizona’s breathtaking Grand Canyon National Park, a scenic drive with views of the San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff, and several viewpoints at the spectacular Grand Canyon South Rim. Optional "Colors & Canyons" 45-minute helicopter upgrade available.
Professionally Guided | Hotel Pickup | All Fees Included | Family-Friendly | Private Tours Available | Custom Options Available | Leaves from Phoenix/Scottsdale
Grand Canyon South Rim Self-Guided Driving Tour
Self-Guided | Family-Friendly | Additional Tour Options Available
Grand Canyon Expeditions
Professionally Guided | Meals Included | Multi-Day Tours
Junipine Resort Sedona
Sedona Lodging | Romantic | Fireplace(s) | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Whirlpool Tub | Family-Friendly | On-site Restaurant | Fitness Center
Comfortable and Scenic near Grand Canyon - Williams, AZ
Family-Friendly | Pet-Friendly | Williams Lodging | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen
Canyon Villa B&B Inn Of Sedona
Sedona Lodging | Outdoor Pool | Romantic
Fun 66 Tours
Leaves from Williams | Things to Do in Williams | Multi-Attraction Tours | Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Educational
Small Group Antelope Canyon Day Trip from Phoenix
Benefit from a full-day tour from Phoenix to Antelope Canyon to see more of Arizona’s natural beauty. Take in Route 66, Flagstaff, the San Francisco Peaks, Lake Powell, and a Navajo Trading Post on the way to Antelope Canyon. Then explore Antelope Canyon with a Navajo guide, and see the … More
Benefit from a full-day tour from Phoenix to Antelope Canyon to see more of Arizona’s natural beauty. Take in Route 66, Flagstaff, the San Francisco Peaks, Lake Powell, and a Navajo Trading Post on the way to Antelope Canyon. Then explore Antelope Canyon with a Navajo guide, and see the Colorado River from the Horseshoe Bend Overlook. Meals and hotel pickup and drop-off are included. Choose between a small-group or private tour.
Leaves from Phoenix/Scottsdale | Professionally Guided | Lunch Included | Educational | Hotel Pickup | Family-Friendly | Private Tours Available | Custom Options Available | All Fees Included
Arizona Private Tours
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Grand Canyon Railway
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Munds Park RV Resort
Family-Friendly | Flagstaff Hotels | Pet-Friendly | General Store | Laundry | Dump Station | Shower | BBQ/Grill | Fitness Center
Peaks & Pines 5-BR House - Flagstaff
Our home is nestled in 2.5 acres of Ponderosa Pines with breathtaking views of Doney Park East ridges & immediate access to hiking/mtn biking. The house is updated with a Gourmet kitchen & all the amenities you might need.
This is the perfect base for all your adventures includi … More
Our home is nestled in 2.5 acres of Ponderosa Pines with breathtaking views of Doney Park East ridges & immediate access to hiking/mtn biking. The house is updated with a Gourmet kitchen & all the amenities you might need.
This is the perfect base for all your adventures including the Grand Canyon, skiing Snowbowl, hiking, exploring Sedona, visiting Flagstaff/NAU or exploring the attractions. Its 5 bedrooms, 3 baths comfortably accommodate 12 making this house perfect for large groups/families.
Flagstaff Hotels | Family-Friendly | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Fireplace(s) | Games Provided | Family-Friendly
Maverick Helicopter Tours from Las Vegas
Family-Friendly | Reserve Now Pay Later | Additional Tour Options Available | Leaves from Las Vegas | Optional Ground Tour | Professionally Guided
Grand Canyon UTV Tours
Leaves from Williams | Things to Do in Williams | Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Things to Do in Williams
North & East Rim Imperial with Ecostar Family Flight
Recommend for groups of 4+. Take the Imperial Air tour on an aircraft dedicated exclusively for yourself and your family/friends.
Experience the Grand Canyon aboard a helicopter tour reserved entirely for your party. These helicopters have been designed with ecological impact in mi … MoreRecommend for groups of 4+. Take the Imperial Air tour on an aircraft dedicated exclusively for yourself and your family/friends.
Experience the Grand Canyon aboard a helicopter tour reserved entirely for your party. These helicopters have been designed with ecological impact in mind and feature lower noise to minimize disturbance. Set off from the Grand Canyon air terminal for aerial sights of the incredible rock gorges, the Colorado River twisting below, and the forested areas of the North Rim. Enjoy the most environmentally-friendly and exclusive way to tour the Grand Canyon by air!Family-Friendly
Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views
Make the most of limited time and see the highlights of Grand Canyon National Park in just a couple of hours on this sightseeing tour. Ride in a windowless, open-air Hummer and listen to commentary from your guide as you visit some of the canyon’s best lookout points, where you can hop … More
Make the most of limited time and see the highlights of Grand Canyon National Park in just a couple of hours on this sightseeing tour. Ride in a windowless, open-air Hummer and listen to commentary from your guide as you visit some of the canyon’s best lookout points, where you can hop out, take photos, and explore. Since this is a small-group tour, you’ll have plenty of time to ask questions, too.
- Visit multiple lookout points within Grand Canyon National Park
- Enjoy the undivided attention of a private driver/guide
- Ideal for first-time visitors and those with limited time
- Choose from multiple departures to best suit your schedule
Family-Friendly
Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock
Sedona Lodging | Family-Friendly | Pet-Friendly | Whirlpool Tub | Outdoor Pool | On-site Restaurant | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Golf Course | Fitness Center | Wedding Venue
Small Group Grand Canyon West Rim Day Trip from Las Vegas
Professionally Guided | Family-Friendly | Hotel Pickup | Breakfast Included | Lunch Included
Grand Canyon South Rim, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend Day Tour from Las Vegas
This one-day tour covers 3 amazing landscapes in the Grand Circle in just one day based from Las Vegas. In addition to the well-known Grand Canyon, you will visit Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, where you can witness the stunning features that have been sculpted in this expansive sc … More
This one-day tour covers 3 amazing landscapes in the Grand Circle in just one day based from Las Vegas. In addition to the well-known Grand Canyon, you will visit Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, where you can witness the stunning features that have been sculpted in this expansive scenery.
On the way back to Las Vegas, we will have a short break in Seligman, a small town on Route 66. This is a nice little stopover where you can enjoy the old American atmosphere.
Leaves from Las Vegas | Family-Friendly | Multi-Attraction Tours
Arizona Mountain Inn & Cabins - Flagstaff
Family-Friendly | Pet-Friendly | Flagstaff Hotels
Grand Canyon National Park Bus Tour from Las Vegas
Explore the natural side of Arizona with a day trip to the Grand Canyon National Park South Rim on our luxury bus tour. Your professional bus driver is trained to provide you with interesting facts about the history, flora, and fauna on one of the great wonders of the modern world.
… MoreExplore the natural side of Arizona with a day trip to the Grand Canyon National Park South Rim on our luxury bus tour. Your professional bus driver is trained to provide you with interesting facts about the history, flora, and fauna on one of the great wonders of the modern world.
Once you arrive at the South Rim, enjoy stops along the rim such as Mather Point and Bright Angel Lodge. Explore popular attractions in the Grand Canyon National Park such as El Tovar, Hopi House, Kolb Photo Studio, and the Bright Angel Trail and make memories of a lifetime!
Family-Friendly | Leaves from Las Vegas