If you’re planning a trip to the Grand Canyon in 2026, you’ve likely seen headlines about massive price hikes and new fee structures. However, there is also a lot of canyon confusion going around.
The most important thing to know is that the Grand Canyon West Rim (the home of the Skywalk) and Grand Canyon National Park (the South Rim) are managed by different entities. The Grand Canyon South Rim is located in the Grand Canyon National Park whereas the Grand Canyon West Rim is located in the Hualapai Indian Reservation. The recent news about $100 surcharges for international visitors only applies to US National Parks and therefore does not apply to the Grand Canyon West.
In fact, Grand Canyon West has simplified its ticketing with its new All-Access Pass designed to give you more bang for your buck. Here is everything you need to know about the 2026 changes and what your ticket actually gets you.
The New "All-Access Pass" at Grand Canyon West
The Hualapai Nation has shifted toward a more streamlined ticketing model for the Grand Canyon West. Instead of paying for entry and then adding on the Skywalk or the Zipline separately, the All-Access Pass bundles the entire experience for $99 + fees.
What’s Included in the All-Access Pass?
- The Skywalk: Access to the world-famous horseshoe-shaped glass bridge that is suspended 4,000 feet above the canyon floor.
- The Zipline: One ride on the Zipline at Hualapai Point, where you can reach speeds of up to 40 mph over a side canyon.
- Unlimited Arcade Play: Hualapai Point offers unlimited retro and modern arcade game play..
- Hop-On Hop-Off Shuttle: Unlimited transportation between the three main points: Eagle Point, Guano Point, and Hualapai Point.
- $10 Meal Credit: A voucher valid towards any meal purchase of $20 or more at the Sky View Restaurant, Guano Point Cafe, or Gwe Ma’jo.
- $10 Merchandise Credit: A voucher valid for souvenir purchases of $20 or more at any official gift shop.
- Cultural Experiences: Access to the Native American Village and live Indigenous performances at Eagle Point.
Clearing up the Confusion: West Rim vs. South Rim
There has been significant buzz regarding a $100 "Foreign Visitor Surcharge" for US National parks which comes into effect from 1st January 2026.
Important: This $100 fee is a National Park Service (NPS) policy that applies to the Grand Canyon National Park (the South and North Rims). However, because Grand Canyon West is located on Hualapai Tribal Land, it is not a US National Park and therefore this additional charge does not apply.
This makes the West Rim an even more attractive option for international travellers departing from Las Vegas who want to avoid the extra federal fees.
| Grand Canyon West Rim | Grand Canyon South Rim | |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Attraction | Skywalk & Zipline | Historic Village & Hiking Trails |
| 2026 Fee Change | New All-Inclusive "All-Access Pass" | $100 Surcharge for International Visitors |
| Management | Hualapai Tribe | National Park Service |
| Distance from Las Vegas | 2.5 Hour Drive | 4.5 Hour Drive |
Major Grand Canyon West Updates for 2026
Mobile Phones on the Skywalk
In a major shift from previous years, mobile phones are now permitted on the Skywalk for photos and videos. Previously, visitors had to store all electronics in lockers and the only photos were taken by professional photographers. Now you can now capture that "walking on air" selfie with your own phone, although professional cameras and selfie sticks are still prohibited for safety reasons.
Introduction of the All-Access Pass
The All-Access Pass is a massive win for those visiting Grand Canyon West. Previously, tickets for the skywalk and Zipline alone would have cost significantly more when purchased as separate add-ons. But by bundling them with meal and gift shop credits, the West Rim is a full day destination that is much easier to budget for.
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