Grand Canyon National Park

Vehicles wait to enter Grand Canyon National Park.

Grand Canyon National Park is preparing for one of its busiest weeks of the year.

Park spokesperson Joelle Baird said visitors to the South Rim are likely to encounter long lines and crowds this week.

“It can get very busy, especially at the visitor center, which is usually the first destination that people go to when they arrive to the park. It’s not unusual between Christmas and New Year’s for all of those parking lots to be completely filled,” Baird said. 

Baird said the park usually fills up by 11 a.m., so she suggests arriving earlier to beat the crowds.

Visitors to the park should plan ahead for winter conditions, too. There’s a chance of snow near the Grand Canyon all week.