Visitation to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon in 2015 is already up compared to 2014. That means that you should expect long waits at South Rim Entrance Station this 4th of July Weekend according to a news release from the National Park Service. They have some suggestions for ways to avoid some of the crowds and we have a few other suggestions as well.
They recommend that visitors coming from outside the Park (Tusayan, Williams, Flagstaff, or just driving up for the day) park their vehicle in Tusayan and ride the shuttle from there into the Park. Another suggestion for avoiding the long lines at the Entrance Station is to plan to arrive early in the morning.
In addition to their recommendations, we suggest if you are departing from Williams or Flagstaff or if you are coming from Phoenix you may want to take a different route and go through the East Entrance to the South Rim via Cameron, AZ. The East Entrance is generally less busy and also gives you the option of traveling along the Little Colorado River Gorge. This route not only offers a scenic drive but also allows you to avoid traffic from Phoenix to Grand Canyon, making your journey more enjoyable. Along the way, you can stop at various viewpoints to take in the stunning landscapes and unique geological formations. Additionally, consider taking your time to explore the local shops and eateries in Cameron, which can enhance your overall experience.
Here is a link to the complete news release from the NPS.
