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Posted by Ballpark Frank (64.79.35.96) on 09:36:05 05/02/18

In Reply to: Question about construction closures 2018 posted by Linda

Linda,

Your confusion is understandable. There are a number of small projects scattered around the Canyon area.

A fairly straightforward project is the work at Inspiration Point, which is the farthest east (farthest from the Lower Falls on the North Rim). The spur road off the North Rim Drive is closed to vehicles. As far as I know, pedestrian traffic is still allowed to access the Glacial Boulder trailhead.

Another piece of construction is the major effort under way on the South Rim, which has the Upper Falls Overlook/Uncle Tom's trail parking lot completely closed. We were in the area last Saturday, and the parking area appears to be a giant mass of mud. Construction is partially completed on what appears to be a shuttle bus stop, featuring a substantial overhead shelter to protect visitors from falling rain or snow, and the sun. At this point, the only way you can see the Upper Falls is from the Brink of the Upper Falls Overlook on the North Rim. I am not certain about the impact on the South Rim foot trail. Last summer, I could see foot traffic on the South Rim trail from Lookout Point on the North Rim, but I would expect a closure around the western end, due to all the construction there.

At present, Artist Point is open and accessible, although access to the platform accessed via the stone steps is still closed due to the accumulated snowpack.

On the North Rim, when I was there a week and a half ago, there were no overlooks or trails open, due to the snow accumulation. Hopefully, that will change as your trip approaches. Given our weather lately, I would not be surprised if certain areas are still closed due to snow when you arrive. I would suggest moving any exploration of the Canyon area to as late in your trip as possible, just to maximize accessibility.

For what it is worth, both osprey nests that were observable from Artist Point and Lookout Point last summer are already occupied, so that is good news. No eggs on the one by Lookout Point as of Sunday, April 22, and no eggs on the lower one, much closer to the river as of Saturday, April 28.

Ballpark



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