The Grand Canyon’s east entrance is now open again after having been closed for the past year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Located along the scenic State Route 64, the Canyon’s east entrance was originally closed to minimize visitor traffic through the Navajo Nation to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
The decision to reopen was a joint one among Park Superintendent Ed Keable, the Navajo Nation, and state and local officials and community members.
“Over the past year, we have continued to coordinate with local Cameron Chapter and tribal officials from the Navajo Nation, as well as other stakeholders and business leaders on the east gate closure,” says Keable in a statement. “As vaccine rollouts continue, we recognize the need to normalize our operations and allow for visitors to have a drive-through option on Highway 64.”
When driving through the Navajo Nation, all roads other than state and federal highways are closed to non-residential traffic. For a complete list of closest available services and open facilities on the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, please consult the Grand Canyon National Park website.