The Rangers are nice here but prepare yourself for sticker shock, $30 for a few hours visit! In full disclosure, the minimum $30 park fee is good for 1 week, but honestly, how many of us who drove over from California or other places stay more than a few hours and then continue on? Maybe 99% of us. The sign at the entrance says "user fee," and yes, we all felt used by the park service pretending to offer a valuable 7 day deal, that super few can use. It's a waste for the patrons, a gouge to the gut and the park service has to know that. Our visit today cost us $6 per hour.
In middle of July 2016 was very fast transit with annual pass.
I personally have not experienced the long lines but I'm sure they do occur, best piece of advice don't got at prime times. Times I've entered the park with no lines is around lunchtime, 2:30pm, & 4:45pm(in July & August). Trust me as long as your in the park and going down Hermit Rd before sunset you won't miss a thing. In way of handicap accessibility the GC is top notch, be sure to let your Park Ranger at the gate know your needs. Also if traveling with senior citizens make sure they get their parks card for discounts and lower entry fees. Overall the GC is very accommodating and helpful. I highly recommend Hopi Point for sunset to all my friends and family, the colors and vast views are breathtaking. While driving through the park mind the speed limits for the wildlife is in abundance. Have your cameras ready the elk are beautiful, a great precursor to the canyon itself. We had a great day at this National Treasure and hope you do to.
I was honored at the booth in a very respectfull manner for being military, got in and enjoyed every minute. Park was clean, sites were breath taking. Good job!
Aside from the usual "most beautiful place on earth, etc", be prepared for long lines and crowds of people if you show up at prime times. The parking lots ended up being so full people literally just started parking anywhere. I live in this state, so I can visit whenever. I'd highly suggest going during the weekdays if your visiting from outside Arizona.
Is it still worth it with all the crowds? Absolutely! The magnitude of this canyon is something your mind has trouble comprehending when standing at the edge.
Having said that, I have to state the park is in good condition, and well worth the visit even at scalper prices. The parking situation was horrendous on a Saturday. We had to park so far away from the places we wanted to enjoy, and did a lot more walking that our crippled knees expected, but fortunately they have a shuttle bus system that got us around to the important locations. That took twice as much time as if you were able to get around in your own car so please write in some extra time in your planning, but hey, the shuttles were modern and free.
South Entrance Ranger Station is a US Subpremise based in Grand Canyon Village, Arizona. South Entrance Ranger Station is located at Grand Canyon National Park, AZ-64, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023, USA.
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