Arizona – Grand Canyon Association

Grand Canyon Trails Forever Restoration Project

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Summary

The Grand Canyon holds an abundance of world‑class destinations below the rim. Collectively these locales represent critical habitat, scenic marvels, and unique recreational challenges accessible only by a complex network of wilderness trails. Part of a multi‑year strategy for trail maintenance on Grand Canyon National Park’s backcountry trails, this proposal seeks funding to stabilize and restore the historic Grandview Trail to provide better visitor access to the Canyon’s backcountry.

Project Description

 

Trails have been the pathways into the heart of Grand Canyon for thousands of years. Native Americans, explorers, miners, and early tourism entrepreneurs created and used a network of trails to explore the canyon below the rim. Today, backpackers use this wilderness trail system to access the many natural and historic treasures in the canyon’s backcountry. Serving as Grand Canyon National Park’s official nonprofit partner, Grand Canyon Association is a private nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization chartered in 1932 for the sole purpose of supporting the National Park Service at Grand Canyon. In addition to raising private funds to benefit the park, GCA operates retail shops and visitor centers within the park, and provides premier guided educational classes, hikes, and tours about the natural and cultural history of the region. Grand Canyon Association is a vital partner to Grand Canyon National Park as they serve the 4.5 million people who visit the park each year. GCA provides critical funding for the park’s priority initiatives and projects that enhance visitor experience and preserve the Grand Canyon for generations to come.

Traditionally, federal dollars support baseline operations and activities at GCNP, however, these funds often do not cover supplementary needs of the park, such as: Wildlife Research and Conservation (protecting wildlife and their habitat); Trail Restoration (ensuring and protecting paths into the Canyon forever); Historical and Cultural Preservation (maintaining the present and honoring our past); Environmental Education (engaging the stewards of tomorrow), and Public Educational programs.

In a “Crown Jewel” national park where needs continue to outmatch funds, the NPS has turned to Grand Canyon Association, a wide variety of organizational partners, donors, and volunteers to help adequately maintain its world renowned inner canyon trail system. This critical trail restoration work is not only necessary for resource protection and historic preservation, but it is also essential for visitor safety and enjoyment.

This proposal is part of a multi‑year strategy for maintenance and restoration for Grand Canyon National Park’s backcountry trail system. In 2015, funding efforts will focus on the Grandview Trail for completion in spring/summer 2016.

The AHS/Michelob funded project will include:
• Repair and restoration to three miles of the Grandview Trail and the campground area at Horseshoe Mesa.
• Hiker safety and experience greatly improved by the removal of obstacles such as rock debris and vegetation.
• Historic resources (historic surface features/stone walls/unique features) will be preserved and protected and a longer trail life will be provided through the restoration and stabilization of trail features.
• Drainage devices will be serviced as necessary, allowing the trail to resist the continuing effects of erosion.
• Emergency response time will be more effective by providing a clear and accessible trail for emergency crews.
• Fragile resources (soils/vegetation/archaeological sites) will be protected by providing clear, safe trails for hikers.

Trail restoration is among one of Grand Canyon National Park’s highest priorities as it is integral to visitor enjoyment, safety and with respect to historic preservation efforts.

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