Permits in Grand Canyon

Hikers descending into the canyon for an overnight stay need a backcountry permit ($10, plus $5 per person per night), which can be obtained in person, by mail, or faxed by request. Permits are limited, so make your reservation as far in advance as possible (they're taken up to four months ahead of arrival). A visit to the park's Web site will go far in preparing you for the permit process. Day hikes into the canyon or anywhere else in the national park do not require a permit; overnight stays at Phantom Ranch require reservations but no permits. Overnight camping in the national park is restricted to designated campgrounds.

Contacts

Backcountry Information Center (Box 129, Grand Canyon, 86023. 928/638-7875. 928/638-2125. www.nps.gov/grca).