Grand Canyon is heavily visited for most of the year and it is imperative to plan ahead for lodging, camping, backcountry permits, or mule trips. Persons planning day visits only should arrive early in the day as parking is limited. At the park entrance station (either North or South Rim) you will be given a copy of The Guide, the park newspaper. In it you will find a listing of parking areas, ranger programs, and visitor facilities.
When visiting the South Rim, park your vehicle and ride the Village shuttle bus to Canyon View Information Plaza, then plan your visit. At Canyon View Information Plaza you will find informative exhibits about Grand Canyon and an inspiring view of the canyon is only a short stroll away. Visitor services and facilities inside the national park on the North Rim are only open from mid-May through mid-October.