If you’re planning a raft through iconic Grand Canyon National Park, it’s essential to be aware of the access requirements and fees involved. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with all the necessary information to decide your best option.

Park Access and Entrance Fees for Rafting Trips

To access the Grand Canyon National Park, visitors are required to pay an entrance fee. As of now, the fee stands at $20 per person, and it is automatically applied to your reservation when booking. In addition, this fee is non-refundable after your final payment for your rafting trip is submitted.

While the entrance fee is mandatory, there are additional options for visitors looking to explore multiple national parks. The National Park Pass, also known as the America the Beautiful Pass, allows you to waive the entrance fee at participating national parks, including the Grand Canyon. While not mandatory, it can be a cost-effective choice for frequent park visitors or travelers planning to explore multiple parks within a year.

The National Park Pass

If you are considering visiting more than one national park within a year, the National Park Pass can save you money and simplify the entry process. With the pass, you gain access to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites, covering not just national parks but also national forests, wildlife refuges, and more.

To utilize the National Park Pass at the Grand Canyon, make sure your Annual National Park Pass is active and covers the date of your trip. Prior to submitting your final payment for your Grand Canyon reservation, you will need to provide proof of your pass. A photo of your pass, both front and back, can be submitted via email or text to expedite the process. If you’re considering or joining a split Canyon trip, it’s advised to keep a physical copy of your National Park Pass with you, even if that information has been reflected with your outfitter. This way, you have it readily available if required at the South Rim.

How to Purchase the National Park Pass

Purchasing the National Park Pass is easy and can be done online through the official National Park Service store. Simply visit the NPS store using the following link: https://store.usgs.gov/. Here, you can learn more about the pass and complete the purchase. The pass can also be obtained in person at various federal recreation sites, but purchasing online is a convenient option, especially if you want to secure it before your trip.

Choosing the Right Pass:

If you’re unsure which pass would be best for your family or travel plans check out the paragraphs below or visit the National Park Service Plan Your Visit Page to learn more about the different pass options and their benefits. Passes include the Annual Pass, Senior Pass, and Access Pass.

Annual Pass (America the Beautiful Annual Pass)

The Annual Pass, also known as the America the Beautiful Annual Pass, grants access to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country, including national parks, forests, wildlife refuges, and more.

This pass is available to everyone, regardless of age or residency, and is valid for one year from the month of purchase. It covers entrance fees for the pass holder and passengers in a single, private, non-commercial vehicle, or up to four adults at sites that charge per person. This pass covers up to 4 adults for rafting trips as well.

Senior Pass (America the Beautiful Senior Pass)

The Senior Pass is a special pass available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who are 62 years of age or older. It provides lifetime access to the same federal recreation sites as the Annual Pass, including national parks and other federal lands. The pass holder can also enjoy discounts on certain amenities and services within the sites, such as camping fees.

Access Pass (America the Beautiful Access Pass)

The Access Pass is designed for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities. This pass provides free access to federal recreation sites, including national parks, and also offers discounts on certain amenities and services.

The Access Pass covers the pass holder and their companions in a private, non-commercial vehicle, or up to four adults at sites that charge per person. It’s important to note that documentation of disability or proof of eligibility is required to obtain this pass.

Exploring the Grand Canyon and Beyond:

In conclusion, a rafting trip through the Grand Canyon promises breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. To ensure smooth access to the park and potentially save on entrance fees, consider obtaining the National Park Pass. Remember to check the validity of your pass for your travel dates and provide the necessary proof before finalizing your reservation.

Happy adventuring!