Backcountry Information Center

Managing agency

National Park Service

The Backcountry Information Center provides information, permits, and trip planning assistance for those looking to explore Grand Canyon on day and overnight hikes. Hours of Operation / Contact Open Daily: 8:00 am to 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm (closed 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm). Email: grca_bic@nps.gov (Email is the best way to have your question(s) answered.) Phone: For information inquiries, you can call: 928-638-7875 between 8 am and 5 pm Monday through Friday, except on federal holidays. This telephone number is for information only, not for requesting a permit. Mailing address: Grand Canyon National Park Permits Office 1824 S. Thompson St., Suite 201 Flagstaff AZ, 86001 Backcountry permits information and how to apply - are on the park's website. Day hikes do not require permits of any kind, but any overnight trip within the backcountry (below the rim or above) WILL require a permit. You can get further information and try for a "day-of" permit in person at the Backcountry Information Center. South Rim Backcountry Information Center staff enjoy interacting with visitors in person and helping them plan for a safe backcountry experience. To get a last minute, in-person permit for a corridor campsite, wait times are typically 2-3 days after arriving in the park Be aware most remote backcountry sites are already at capacity. You can check with the Backcountry Information Center for last minute availability via email or phone. Parking Parking Lot D, located at the Backcountry Information Center, accommodates cars, trucks, campers, and large RVs for day visits or extended parking for overnight hikers. Lot D provides 150 standard parking spaces and 30 sized for RVs or buses. It is a short walk to the edge of Grand Canyon, Bright Angel Trailhead, and the Hermit Road (Red Route) shuttle stop. Hikers' Express Shuttle Bus Service An early morning bus with service from Grand Canyon Village — to South Kaibab Trailhead To ride the Hikers' Express Shuttle to South Kaibab Trailhead, park in lot D and be at the Backcountry Information Center shuttle stop at: 4:10, 5:10, 6:10 am — Beginning May 23, 2026. Village (Blue) Route - Summer Schedule May 23, through September 11, 2026 50 minutes round trip (without getting off the bus) Village (Blue) Route First bus at 6:30 am — the last bus is at 9:30 pm. ► Be at a bus stop no later than 9:15 pm. Every 15 minutes: 6:30 am to 10 am Every 10 minutes: 10 am to 7 pm Every 15 minutes: 7 pm to 9:30 pm Village service ends at 9:30 pm