Grand Canyon National Park has officially confirmed that walk-up backcountry permits will be available for spring thru-hikers in 2025 with the following date ranges:

April 1 – May 14: Sites will only be available at Cottonwood Campground

May 15 – June 11: Sites will also be made available at Bright Angel Campground

If you are arriving before or after these dates, still stop at the Backcountry Information Center (BIC) to inquire, but expect less availability.

These campsites are for thru-hikers only, not section-hikers.

Major thanks goes out to the NPS for working to provide this opportunity for Arizona Trail users given the current constraints of the Transcanyon Waterline construction and the current reduction in staff. AZTers, make sure to thank BIC rangers when you arrive! And be prepared to be flexible with your itinerary as these spots are limited.