Grand Canyon tours, accommodation, vacations.

Our Most Frequently Asked Questions

What are the nearest major cities/airports?

Phoenix, Arizona is the closest major city/airport.  Driving time is approximately 4 hours/247 miles. Las Vegas, Nevada is the next closest major city/airport.  Driving time is approximately 5 hours 30 minutes/273 miles.   Please view our Directions page fore more information.

What address do I use with map software for directions?

Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023 

What are the GPS coordinates for Grand Canyon National Park?

N36°3.38472, W112°8.1894

What is the address if I need to ship a package?

The standard mailing:
Xanterra South Rim, L.L.C.
PO Box 699
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023

For express shipping:
Xanterra South Rim, L.L.C.
10 Albright Street
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023

Is the Park and Lodging open year-round?

The South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is open year-round; however, some of Xanterra South Rim, L.L.C. lodging, restaurants and gift shops are open seasonally and with limited hours.

What is the elevation of the Grand Canyon South Rim?

The elevation is 6,900 feet above sea level.

What should I expect the weather to be?

Summers are pleasant with temperatures ranging from 50°-80°F. If you do venture down into the canyon the temperatures increase, sometimes exceeding over 100°F. The sun is powerful in the high-altitude, so wearing hats and sunscreen is highly advised. Evenings are cool around 40°-50°F and wearing light jackets or sweaters is a good idea.

Winters are cold with temperatures between 40°-50°F or lower. We recommend you bring warm clothes and prepare for icy roads and trails, potential road closures, and snow.

Spring and fall at the Grand Canyon can be unpredictable. Generally days are comfortably warm around 50°-60°F and the nights cooler. This time of year can have some of the best weather for hiking.

We advise you to check weather Web sites for current forecasts as the weather can fluctuate.   
 
You may also check the National Park Service Web site for additional information related to weather. 

Is there cell phone service?

Yes, Alltel and Verizon currently offer service; however, we cannot make any guarantees to the signal strength.

Is there a business center?

We do not offer a business center.

Is there an entrance fee to enter the Park?

The National Park Service currently charges $25 per private vehicle.  When entering by foot, bicycle, motorcycle, or commercial vehicle the fee will vary.  Please visit the National Park Service Web site for the most current fee information.

Where is the nearest location to get fuel?

Gasoline is only available inside of the park seasonally at Desert View. Gasoline is available year-round just outside of the park to the South in Tusayan.

Where can I buy the Grand Canyon Mule Ride DVD?

Our Grand Canyon Mule Ride DVD and many more related souvenirs can be purchased at any of our in-park gift stores or from the Online Store. This DVD is the perfect pre-trip DVD to help you prepare for a colorful and exciting mule riding experience to the bottom of the Grand Canyon. 

How far in advance can I make lodging reservations?

We are currently accepting reservations for stays up to 13 months in advance. On the first of each month, we will begin accepting reservations for the entire month of the following year.  For example, on March 1, 2008 we will accept reservations through March 31, 2009.  For more information, please review our Reservation Overview page.

Do you have a waitlist for room reservations?

We do not offer a waitlist for reservations.

Since you don't have a waitlist, should I check back every day for a cancellation?

Cancellations do occur; however, they can occur at random with limited success in obtaining the dates and accommodations desired.  If your first choice is not available, rather than scheduling your vacation around the possibility of a cancellation, we suggest checking alternate dates instead.  If you want to continue to check for cancellations, you may do so by visiting our Check Availability-Book Online page.

Why can't I find my reservation through the Web site reservation system?

Currently our online reservation system will only allow modifications or cancellations to reservations initially booked on our Web site.

Can I cook in my room?

Cooking is not allowed in any of the guestrooms or cabins inside Grand Canyon National Park.

Can I have a pet in my room?

Pets are not allowed in any of the guestrooms or cabins inside Grand Canyon National Park. Kennels are available for dogs and cats only, from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily and reservations are recommended. Pets are accepted for day or overnight boarding and food is included. Visit our Services & Amenities page for more information.

Do I need dining room reservations?

Advance dinner reservations are recommended for dinner at El Tovar Dining Room and can be made by calling 928.638.2631, ext. 6432 or sending an e-mail. Dinner reservations can be made six months in advance with El Tovar room reservations and 30 days in advance without El Tovar room reservations. Breakfast and lunch reservations are not accepted at El Tovar Dining Room.

For information about each of our dining options and dinner reservations throughout the park please visit our Dining Overview page. 

Working in a National or State Park sounds like fun, how can I learn more about this and possibly apply for a job?

Working in a National Park can be an excellent experience for people of all ages.  For more information, please visit our Find A Job page.