Recreational Areas Making Transition To Winter Operations

As we progress through fall and witness the beauty of the changing seasons, we are also at that time when our areas of recreation are in the transition to winter operations, which in some cases means closure. For now, you can still visit most of the parks and recreational areas but be prepared for diminished services.

While a year ago, with a record year of snowfall on the way, we were already restricted on going to places like the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. This year, there is still access to these locations, but services are limited or closed. 

At the North Rim, day use is still available, but you are pretty much on your own. The Grand Canyon Lodge, North Rim Campground, the General Store and the Visitor Center are all closed for the year.

You can access the North Rim as long as State Route 67 is open, but a major snowstorm could close that any time. And snow or not, the North Rim will close for the year on November 30th.

And starting tomorrow, November 15th, the Glen Canyon National Recreation area will be transitioning to winter operations. What will that mean? 

In the Wahweap district, restrooms will be closed at the Wahweap Picnic Area and at the parking lot for beach access across from the Wahweap Campground. The Wahweap Main Ramp and Stateline Ramp restrooms will remain open for the winter season.

The Wahweap boat pump out will close Nov. 15, however by contacting Glen Canyon Dispatch at 928-608-6301 arrangements can be made to have it reopened (boaters will need to provide their own water). Due to freezing temperatures the outdoor drinking fountains and fishing cleaning stations were winterized on Friday, October 27.

At Lone Rock Primitive Campground, the micro flush toilets, restrooms, and showers will remain closed for the season, no potable water will be available, and the recreational vehicle (RV) dump water will be turned off. Primitive camping will be available at Lone Rock throughout the winter months. Campers are encouraged to provide their own portable toilet system. As a reminder to visitors, it is prohibited to bury waste of any kind on the beach. Entrance and camping fees apply year-round and may be paid at the self-service machine located at the entrance station. Due to freezing temperatures on October 27, the number of open vault toilets was reduced but some will remain open throughout the winter.

And at Bullfrog, the picnic area restrooms will be closed on Nov. 15. The Bullfrog boat pump out will have one operational pump and no fresh water will be available. Beginning Nov. 15, the pump out will be closed daily at approximately 3 p.m. and park personnel will reopen the boat pump out in the morning. Due to freezing temperatures the outdoor drinking fountains and fishing cleaning stations were winterized on Friday, October 27.

So, if you are heading to one of these recreational areas, be aware that some of the services you rely on may not be available for the time being. But, before you know it, spring will come and everything will be back in full operation.