The Grand Canyon Will Remain Open Despite Government Shutdown

Lisa Marie Segarra
Updated
"If Washington, D.C., won’t function, Arizona will."

While many national parks will remain closed through the government shutdown, the Grand Canyon will be open.

Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey has already pledged to keep the state largest attraction’s open using state dollars.

"The Grand Canyon will not close on our watch. Period," Ducey said in a statement. "If Washington, D.C., won’t function, Arizona will."

Calling the Grand Canyon “a major economic pillar” for the surrounding communities, Ducey said the park has worked with the National Park Service and Parks and Tourism departments to identify state resources to make sure the national park stays open for visitors.

"Don’t change your travel plans, because Arizona is open for business – regardless of what happens back in Congress," he continued.

State parks, trails and military bases already remain open regardless of the shutdown.