3 Grand Canyon trails closed for waterline work reopen for summer activity

Three Grand Canyon National Park trails closed due to the Transcanyon Waterline Replacement Project reopened for summer activity on Friday, five days earlier than expected.

The trails reopening include the River Trail (east of the River Resthouse to the South Kaibab Trail junction), the Silver Bridge and Plateau Point Trail (from the Tonto Trail junction to Plateau Point). Park officials noted that other closures are still in effect.

Repairs were being done throughout the national park after multiple breaks in its 12.5-mile Transcanyon Waterline were discovered.

Work to replace the waterline caused a rockfall that collapsed a 50-foot section the River Trail. Friday’s reopening came after reconstruction work on the trail was completed.

The trails will remain open throughout the summer. The following closures are planned to begin in mid-October:

• North Kaibab Trail from the Redwall Bridge to the northern end of Cottonwood Campground.
• Park officials noted “rim-to-rim” hiking will no longer be possible beginning Oct. 15.

The waterline replacement project, which costs $208 million, is targeted for completion in 2027.

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