Starting Friday, the Grand Canyon will increase access to the park.
Park rangers will start by opening the South Rim entrance every day from 4 a.m. till 2 p.m. Those already in the park by 2 p.m. will be allowed to stay until sundown.
Day hiking and back-country permits will still be honored, though no new overnight permits will be issued.
Grand Canyon spokeswoman Lily Daniels says there will be increased access starting next week.
“On June 5, the south entrance will be open 24/7. We will also reopening Mather Campground and the North Rim will be open for day use,” Daniels said.
To help ease public health concerns, the east entrance on the South Rim as well as residential areas will remain closed. Those traveling on the Navajo Nation will be required to wear masks at public facilities and businesses.
