Very informative and helpful. They have left over fuel if you need some. I left mine there as I could not take it back with me on the plane.The permit process was very easy and had not trouble.
Trip Snapshot
Open
Open now · 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 – 5:00 PM
Parking
Lot D (adjacent) – fills early in peak season
Ideal For
Indoor, accessible restrooms, water-bottle filling station
Showed up in GCNP on a whim on a Monday and decided to try to acquire a backcountry camping permit for either Bright Angel CG or Indian Garden CG at some point that week. Was initially told it didn’t look like there was availability due to the north rim being closing and diverting other campers to these places also. However, I was encouraged by ranger Jamie to check back in tomorrow to see if the availability had changed. Sure enough, I showed up in the next morning and was granted the permit. She was even helpful enough to go over possible routes for getting there, mileage, weather info, gear that would be required, and was just all around really helpful. This helped me enjoy the canyon to the fullest extent!
Absolutely gorgeous!We went to the South Rim and we decided to do the Bright Angel trail.We did just over 3 miles (the 1.5 marker then rurnes around). It was quite the workout coming back up. I took seval stops in the shade as it is a steep grade.There is a little convenience store that sells hogies ($9), chicken wraps, chips, fruit cups and ice cream($3-$4).There is parking for RV'S in lot D.
My friend and I just completed our Rim to Rim hike, which was an incredible and exhausting experience. We popped into the back country information center prior to our hike. Ranger Diego was immensely helpful with advice on how to successfully and safely complete our hike. I would strongly recommend anyone planning a back country hike stops by and gets advice on current weather and recommendations for your hike so you can also have a beautiful and safe experience in this incredible place.
Recently decided to hike Rim to River a second time and received some great advice from Diego! I had more than enough water for my entire trip thanks to him (did not have to refill at all) and thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful spring scenery. Super proud of myself for going on such a challenging journey and being successful. I greatly appreciate the service, thank you!
Why Visit Backcountry Information Center
The Backcountry Information Center (BIC) is Grand Canyon National Park’s primary hub for wilderness permits, trail updates, and trip‑planning advice.
Highlights
Obtain Backcountry Permits
Current Trail & Water Reports
Trip‑Planning Advice
Maps & Resources
Last‑Minute Permit Walk‑ups
Description
Located in Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim, the center is the first stop for anyone intending to camp below the rim or explore remote areas of the park.
Features
Backcountry permit issuance
Trail information desk
Water‑bottle filling station
Indoor restrooms
Bulletin boards
Book & map sales
Wi‑Fi not available
Getting There
By Shuttle: Take the free Village (Blue) Route and exit at Stop #6 – Backcountry Information Center. Buses run every 15–30 minutes year‑round. By Car: From the South Entrance, follow South Entrance Rd. Turn right onto Center Rd, then left onto Backcountry Rd. Parking Lot D is on the right.
Insider Tips
Local advice to help you make the most of your visit.
01Good to know
Arrive at 7
45 am for the walk‑up line—permits often run out within minutes during spring and fall.
02Be prepared
Check water status even for corridor trails; seasonal pipeline breaks can shut off taps.
03Local tip
Download maps offline before arrival
cell data can be spotty inside the building.
04Save time
Combine your stop with Maswik Lodge (5‑min walk) for coffee or snacks while you wait.
05Stay connected
Use Lot D for overnight parking only if your backcountry permit lists the vehicle and dates.
06Good to know
North Rim visitors
A separate, smaller Backcountry Information Center operates at the North Rim Ranger Station mid‑May – Oct.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for day hikes like Bright Angel or South Kaibab?
No. Permits are only required for overnight trips below the rim or for river trips.
How far in advance can I apply for a permit?
Up to 4 months ahead, during the monthly lottery on Recreation.gov.
Can I get a same‑day permit?
Possibly. A limited number of walk‑up permits are released daily at the BIC for trips starting within four days. Arrive early.
Is the Backcountry Information Center open on holidays?
Yes, except December 25. Hours may vary on Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day—check the NPS website.
Are bear canisters required?
Not on the South Rim corridor trails, but they are required in some remote backcountry zones. Rangers will advise when issuing your permit.
Does the BIC sell maps and fuel?
Topographic maps and guidebooks are sold inside (seasonal). Fuel canisters are not sold here; purchase them in Tusayan or Grand Canyon Village Market Plaza.
Where can I park overnight while I’m in the canyon?
Lot D (next to the BIC) or the Backcountry Office overflow area, but your permit must list your vehicle’s plate number and dates.
