Broken Pipe Pollutes Grand Canyon Water Near Phantom Ranch

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The Grand Canyon is absolutely beautiful from any angle, but frequent visitors to the Grand Canyon National Park has said that the landmark has to be viewed from within. The popular Phantom Ranch at the floor of the canyon is a great place to visit as well, but a recent broken water pipe may make things a little more difficult for those visiting this particular area.

The Trans-Canyon Water Pipeline is known to break from time to time, and it’s more common than you might think. Luckily, this broken pipeline shouldn’t affect the Grand Canyon experience for the vast majority of tourists. This is only hazardous to people planning on hiking down to the Phantom Ranch until repairs can be made.

Those planning a trip to the ranch simply must bring their own water or be prepared to treat the water found along the route. The water may not be safe to drink, but after the break is repaired, all will return to normal.

Despite the break, the park is completely functional. Aside from the Phantom Ranch, the park is exactly as it’s always been, with all facilities and trails open. Keep in mind that normal winter closures are still in effect, and that many North Rim activities are unavailable during this time of the year.

The pipe will remain broken until the necessary equipment needed to repair the break can be safely transported into the canyon. Grand Canyon weather has prevented equipment to be sent in, and a forecasted cold spot may draw things out even longer than expected. Once repairs can be made, they will, and the Phantom Ranch will return to its former glory as one of the best spots on the floor of the canyon.

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Be careful out there, and just remember not to drink the natural water on your way to or from Phantom Ranch. Either bring enough water to make the journey or purchase a simple water treatment kit to make found water completely safe. Again, this breakage will not affect other park activities, schedules, or events.

How do you feel about the view from the bottom of the canyon? Are park officials not doing enough to prevent breakages like this? Share your thoughts with us and the other readers in the comments section below!