For some people planning a dream vacation, the news may have come as a surprise. The beautiful lodges of the Grand Canyon’s South Rim are closing temporarily, possibly until 2027, due to multiple breaks in the park’s only water line. With no water being pumped to the South Rim, park officials say the limited resources need to be conserved.
Under the current restrictions, visitors can’t stay at places that include El Tovar Hotel, Bright Angel Lodge and Maswik Lodge, and water is unavailable at campgrounds. Ranger-led programs and tours are also suspended.
The South Rim lodge closures come at a time shortly after the historic lodge at the Grand Canyon’s North Rim was destroyed by fire. In July 2025, the Dragon Bravo Fire swept across the North Rim, burning through the Grand Canyon Lodge and much of the surrounding cabin district. The lodge complex—an iconic example of 1920s National Park Service (NPS) rustic architecture—suffered extensive and irreversible damage.
The Grand Canyon is Still Open!
The Grand Canyon is considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, recognized for its immense scale, stunning beauty, and geological significance as a testament to millions of years of erosion by the Colorado River.
The good news is that the park is still open and you can explore it on your own. You can still stop at iconic vistas, such as Mather Point, Hopi Point and Grand Viewpoint. You can hike scenic rim trails or take a helicopter tour for an aerial view. And you can still go whitewater rafting. Commercial trips run from April to October, offering everything from thrilling rapids to scenic floats.
Why Rent a Luxury Motorcoach to Visit the Grand Canyon?
When you charter a luxury motorcoach through LiTRV, you and your family or friends will travel in comfort and style. No more forgetting something important back at the hotel. Much like a luxury hotel suite, a luxury motorcoach features the convenience of an expansive kitchen, comfortable beds, multiple bathrooms, washer and dryer, and even a dishwasher.
Some motorcoaches have electric fireplaces, heated floors, and state-of-the-art entertainment centers. There’s also plenty of room for your pets to stretch out and relax and ample room for luggage. All luxury motorcoaches have Smart TVs throughout and WIFI access. And because all short- and long-term charters include a private driver, you and your family or friends can relax throughout your journey. When your trip includes overnight stays, we will arrange for your private driver to stay nearby so you can enjoy your privacy.
Curating Exceptional, Customized Trips
Think of our LiTRV team as your personal concierge. We’ll work closely with you to customize your itinerary to the Grand Canyon for a smooth, comfortable, luxury travel experience. We can reserve a premier site with breathtaking views at an RV park outside of the national park, or we can add nearby popular entertainment and spa destinations to your itinerary, such as Las Vegas or Sedona.
And because we provide bespoke services throughout your trip, you have the flexibility to modify your travel plans, even after your journey has begun. Our concierge services also extend beyond your travel in the motorcoach. Our team can arrange, for example, for a private tour of wineries or distilleries or organize other unique travel experiences.
Plan Now for a Memorable Grand Canyon Vacation
According to a CBS News story, the 12.5 mile-long Transcanyon Waterline is the primary water source for park residents, staff and tourists. Originally built in the late 1960s, it has been a maintenance priority for years, and a portion of park entrance fees is set aside to help with costs.
A $208 million rehabilitation of the pipeline and upgrades to the associated water delivery system started in 2023, with the National Park Service calling it a crucial investment to ensure the park can meet the needs of residents and visitors. The project is expected to be completed in 2027.
Fortunately, you don’t have to wait until 2027 to visit the Grand Canyon. Our LiTRV team is ready to assist you. Give us a call at 800-369-8153, email us info@litrv.com or click on the “Get a Quote” button at the bottom of our home page.
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