FAQs: Grand Canyon Backpacking Permits

 by Lisa Winters, Communications Associate

Eager to hike below the rim and sleep under a ribbon of stars in Grand Canyon National Park? First, you’ll need a backcountry permit. Plan ahead and be flexible for the best chance of getting the permit you want. Here’s what you need to know.

New to Grand Canyon permits? Start with our complete Grand Canyon permit guide ›

Already have a Grand Canyon permit? Skip the basics and get answers to your detailed questions ›

When do I need a backcountry permit? 

Anytime you want to camp in the park, outside of the developed campgrounds on the North Rim or South Rim. Permits are required for camping overnight below the rim, plus a few uncommon scenarios. See the full list of when a backcountry permit is required ›

How do I get a Grand Canyon backcountry permit? 

Fill out and submit this application form up to four months in advance of your hike. For the best chance, submit your application during the “earliest consideration period,” which starts four months and 10 days in advance of the month of your hike. See the calendar ›

You must mail, fax, or deliver your application in person to Grand Canyon National Park’s Backcountry Information Center. Applications are processed via lottery system. Check your email to find out if you received your desired permit. It may take the backcountry office up to three weeks to respond. 

KNOW WHAT TO PACK. Grand Canyon gear guide ›

I want to stay in the dormitories or cabins at Phantom Ranch. Do I need a backcountry permit? 

You do not need a backcountry permit for your stay at Phantom Ranch, but you will need to reserve a cabin or dormitory through Grand Canyon National Park Lodges 15+ months ahead of your planned hike.

If your backpacking route involves a stay at Phantom Ranch AND other campsites, you’ll need a backcountry permit for the additional nights below the rim. List your Phantom Ranch lodging reservations when filling out your desired itinerary on the permit application. 

An example backcountry application permit which includes an already-reserved stay at Phantom Ranch.

I want to camp at Indian Gardens, Bright Angel Campground, or Cottonwood Campground. How do I get a campground reservation? 

Your issued backcountry permit is your campground reservation. When you arrive at the campground with permit in hand, you may pick any site that is open. Fill out the backcountry permit application ›

I want to camp at multiple different spots below the rim. What should I do?

Fill out the backcountry permit application form with your entire backpacking itinerary (desired dates and camp locations). If your trip is flexible, include alternative proposed itineraries. See an example permit › 

If you win a permit, be sure to read your itinerary carefully. It may be different than the first choice you listed. 

WHERE SHOULD I GO? Favorite Grand Canyon hikes ›

Is there someone I can call to talk about route suggestions, itineraries, and Grand Canyon backcountry permits?

Contact the Backcountry Information Center at Grand Canyon National Park by email at grca_bic@nps.gov, phone at 928-638-7875, or visit the office in person. The office encourages hikers and backpackers to stop in and see them upon arrival at the South Rim to go over safety and preparedness. 

Silver Bridge for hikers crossing the Colorado River. MICHAEL QUINN, NPS

Do I need a permit to hike rim-to-rim in the Grand Canyon?

Not unless you plan to camp overnight below the rim. 

You’ve done your research and still have questions. Here’s a deep dive into Grand Canyon permits.

I can’t go on my hike after all. Can I transfer my permit to someone else?

Yes. Send an email to grca_bic@nps.gov or visit the Backcountry Information Center in person with the name, address, phone number, and email of the person you’re transferring your permit to. The trip leader must request this switch, and it must be prior to the start of the trip.

Can I add people to my permit after it’s been issued?

Yes, based on available space. Adding up to a total of six people is typically not a problem. Only one or two “large groups” (7-11 individuals) are allowed at a given use area. Email grca_bic@nps.gov or visit the Backcountry Information Center in person to make this request. Backpackers can stop in when they arrive for their trip. Please note that it is strictly prohibited to hold multiple permits for the same night in the same campground to avoid becoming a large group. 

Can I change my itinerary after my permit has been approved? 

Yes, based on availability. Send an email to grca_bic@nps.gov or visit the Backcountry Information Center in person. The request must be made prior to the start of the trip. 

The Bright Angel Campground near Phantom Ranch. 

I didn’t get the permit I wanted. Now what?

You have a few options:

1. Contact the Backcountry Information Center via email at grca_bic@nps.gov or call and talk to a ranger at 928-638-7875.
2. Show up at the Grand Canyon National Park Backcountry Information Center and try to get a walk-in permit, open daily from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 to 5 p.m.
3. Day hike!

I want to spend a few nights on the rim, in addition to my backpacking trip. What do I reserve first, lodging or a backcountry permit?

Lodging at Grand Canyon National Park fills up quickly. If you want to stay in a hotel, lodge, or cabin during your visit, make reservations 15 months in advance. View the lodging options › 

If you want to camp on the South Rim or North Rim, reserve your campsite reservation a year in advance via recreation.gov. Any night you want to camp in the park, outside of developed campgrounds, you’ll need a backcountry permit (see above process). If you want to see the canyon via mule ride, plan to book your trip 15 months in advance as well.

Overnight and backcountry hiking require advanced planning. Know your route, where you’ll find water, and what weather to expect. Then, grab your pack, remember to have your permit attached to your pack, and start your Grand Canyon adventure!