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I have no job at Grand Canyon this summer

So as if this winter hasn’t been strange enough with limited traveling and my best friend diagnosed with cancer, I also have no job at Grand Canyon this summer.  It’s complicated.

view northeast trees canyon temples Moran Point South Rim Grand Canyon National Park ArizonaView northeast from Moran Point South Rim Grand Canyon

I should be starting work today with training on the South Rim. But no.

The job announcement came out January 12th for Park Ranger Interpretation at Grand Canyon.  This is sort of like a classified ad for the gov, all done online of course.  I immediately applied for a GS-07 seasonal position on the North Rim.  Basically the same job I’ve been doing for ten seasons as a GS-05 for a little more money and called a “lead”.  Towards the end of March my supervisor wanted to know if I planed to return for the 2018 summer season.  Well of course.  But my name didn’t show up on the cert (list of qualified applicants) for my usual GS-05 position.  But that’s OK because I can be picked up as a rehire.  So we think.  But this does prompt me to look into why I didn’t show up on either cert.  Are you confused yet?

last light temples San Fransisco peaks sunset North Rim Grand Canyon National Park ArizonaLast light seen from the North Rim Lodge

After several emails with folks from the regional Human Resources office I am reminded that I didn’t reapply for my GS-05 job, just the GS-07 which I was “highly qualified” for but the park decided not to fill the position.  Only they did fill the position and I wasn’t on that cert either.  WTF?  I’ve asked for a review on this.

Then the ‘rehire’ process began.  Due to a new interpretation to old rules the National Park Service (NPS) audited my work history for the last 20 years looking to see if I worked more than the ‘1039’ hours (six months) that is maximum for seasonal employees.  If I did, I loose my rehire rights.  I waited 2 1/2 weeks thinking I’d be safe as I’ve never worked more than one season a year for NPS since 2002.

Mount Hayden & beyond from Point Imperial North Rim Grand Canyon National Park ArizonaLast light on Mount Hayden and beyond from Point Imperial North Rim

If a position requires more than six months the job should be full-time permanent, and I agree with that.  NPS has been dodging that one for a long time.  Some people choose to work two seasons per year in different parks.  The jobs are competitive and permanent jobs have been difficult to impossible to get.  Only in the last couple years has it become easier for seasonal employees to apply for permanent jobs through the a new act and be able to get health benefits at a reasonable price when working.

However, I mostly didn’t want to be permanent and work all year.  I like being a seasonal and felt fortunate to work six months and then play/take six months off.  But I do need to work at least half the year to accommodate my budget.  My plan was to work two more summers at Grand Canyon which celebrates 100 years as a national park in 2019, and then at least think about retirement at age 66.  Of course as a seasonal Park Ranger I don’t really retire I just don’t go back to work again.

last light Wotans Throne Wedding Site Cape Royal North Rim Grand Canyon National Park ArizonaLast light on Wotan’s Throne from the Wedding Site at Cape Royal North Rim

Bottom line, I have no job at Grand Canyon.  Seems the auditor discovered I worked seven months at Oregon Caves in 2004.  I really don’t know how that could be and have requested a review. If you’re not totally confused by now let me know because I am.

Of course, I’m not the only one who was caught off-guard by this new interpretation of the rules but it is inconsistent across the country in different regions.  After commenting on a NPS employee Facebook page I was contacted and interviewed by Cronkite News Arizona PBS.  Glad to see some media picking up on this.

inversion clouds temple canyon North Rim Grand Canyon National Park ArizonaMonsoon inversion swirls around Brahma Temple from North Rim Lodge

I am sad about this and yet it could be considered a blessing in disguise.  Right now I’m care-taking my friend Berta to the best of my ability, however it is not a new future career.  I am not usually first on the list of people-nurturers, and Berta will agree with that.  This is different.  Should be an interesting summer.

Sunset crepuscular rays Cape Royal North Rim Grand Canyon National Park ArizonaSunset from Cape Royal North Rim

Rangers get paid in sunsets

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Plan ahead to visit the North Rim Grand Canyon

Sunset light on Angels Gate & over South Rim from Lodge North Rim Grand Canyon National Park ArizonaI’ve posted this before but it’s worth repeating, plan ahead to visit the North Rim Grand Canyon National Park.  Complete with updated information.

GRCA NP visitation 1918-2015

The National Park Service Centennial will bring more people out to visit all parks making it more important than ever to plan ahead to visit the North Rim, or any National Park site for that matter.  The 2015 visitation at Grand Canyon National Park peaked at 5.5 million with 90% visiting the South Rim.  That doesn’t mean the North Rim will be less crowded.  The remote location with limited services and facilities is only open from May 15 – November 30, weather dependent.

No signal on GPS

It is unlikely a GPS will work in or around the North Rim so please get a paper map.  Go to the park’s website and download the Trip Planner.  Remember, the North and South Rims may only be separated by 10 miles as the Condor flies but it’s a 210 mile (338 km) drive via the Navajo Reservation on Hwy89.

There’s a $30/carload entrance fee if you don’t have a park pass and cash is not accepted at the entrance station.  However, visitors are not turned away.  Cash is accepted at the Visitor Center, and after hours’ entrance fees should be paid at the automated machine behind the Visitor Center.

Fog shrouded Vishnu Temple Cape Royal North Rim Grand Canyon National Park ArizonaBe prepared for all kinds of weather.  8200 feet (2500 m) can mean cold and snow into June and as early as October.  Monsoon from July through September brings daily rain and sometimes clouds obscure the canyon views.  Heat in the canyon can soar above 100F (37 C) during summer.  Dry conditions requires drinking plenty of water.  Children dehydrate faster than adults.  Altitude sickness can be a reality many don’t recognize.  Symptoms include headache, nausea, and grumpiness.  The air is thinner and breathing can be difficult.

Mt Hayden & canyon beyond from Point Imperial North Rim Grand Canyon National Park ArizonaPoint Imperial overlook view

The scenic drive on the North Rim is 40 miles (64 k) round trip on a paved curvy road with no shoulders.  It is not recommended for a vehicle over 30 feet (9 m) for good reason.  Pull offs and parking are provided along the way.  Please don’t park on the roadway.  No food or water are provided and restrooms are located at only two points.  There is no shuttle service touring the North Rim however a hiker shuttle offers a five hour ride between the north and south side of the canyon.

Bright Angel trail end North Rim Grand Canyon National Park ArizonaBright Angel Point trail

Hike smart.  The North Rim offers many hiking options from an easy 1/2 mile to many miles.  Although you are welcome to wander anywhere you want think about sticking to established trails for safety’s sake.  If going off trail please don’t walk on the vegetation.  Use extreme caution along rocky edges.  Take at least one gallon, or 4 liters, of water per person for the day and salty snacks to help keep your electrolytes up.  No dieting at Grand Canyon as you’ll be burning up calories very fast.

Roaring Springs canyon North Kaibab Trail North Rim Grand Canyon National Park ArizonaNorth Kaibab Trail

If you’re hiking in the canyon the trail is steep.  What goes down must come up.  Day hikers are encouraged not to go more than the 5 miles (8 km) down to Roaring Springs on the North Kaibab Trail.  This is considered an all day hike for most people and you should get an early start.

Overnight camping along the main rim to rim trails at one of the three designated campgrounds in the canyon requires a permit which you typically apply for four months in advance.  Again, check the website for complete information.  Best, and most popular, time to hike in the canyon is spring and fall when inner canyon temperatures are not so brutal.  Stop at the backcountry office for more information.  Maybe you’ll get lucky and get a next day permit.

07 126 Cartoon Ranger telling animals not to feed the people g (1024x768)Ranger programs go on throughout the day and into the evening.  Subjects vary from geology, ecology, archeology, California condors and cultural history.  It’s a great way to learn more about your Grand Canyon.  Times and locations are listed in the North Rim newspaper and posted in the Visitor Center.

The Junior Ranger Program offers more learning opportunities for kids of all ages and you earn a Junior Ranger badge for your efforts.  Stop at the Visitor Center/Bookstore to pick up a Junior Ranger book and maybe a postcard or two.  Rangers are available to help you plan your visit.

Derek Suwaima-Davis Hoop Dance Heritage Days North Rim Grand Canyon National Park ArizonaSpecial events include the 4th of July water parade, Western Arts Day, the week long Star Party, Native American Heritage Days, the Kanab Symphony and special presentations by Artists-in-Residence.  Plus nature puts on a wildflower display most of the summer and the fall aspen turn to gold.

Snow around Lodge North Rim Grand Canyon National Park ArizonaFood options are available at the Grand Lodge for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  It is the most expensive of options but not outrageous for a National Park dinning experience with views of Grand Canyon.  Dinner reservations should be made in advance.  Deli in the Pines offers a variety of quick foods at reasonable prices like salad, pizza, sandwiches, ice cream, beverages and more.  Food can be eaten inside, outside, or to go.  There is also a Grand Canyon Cookout Experience that includes musical entertainment.  The camp store has pretty much all the basics but you’ll pay more than in town.  And speaking of town, the nearest grocery stores are in Kanab, Utah 85 miles away.

The Rough Rider Saloon offers some quick food and cocktails.  Plus coffee and rolls for the early risers.

Grand Canyon National Park does not sell small throw away sized water bottles.  But who needs all that plastic around when you can fill your own containers at the water fill stations.  It’s delicious spring water pumped up from 3000 feet (914 m) below the rim.  Roaring Springs provides water to both the North and South Rims.  Drink plenty of it but be conservative where you can.

Fall aspen by cabins North Rim Grand Canyon National Park ArizonaRental cabins

Accommodations are limited and typically require reservations far in advance for lodging and campground.  Dispersed camping is allowed in the adjacent Kaibab National Forest.  23 miles (37 km) away Kaibab Lodge which also offers excellent dinning.  45 miles (72 KM) away Jacob Lake Inn along with restaurant, gift shop and famous cookies and milkshakes.  Camping is also available around Jacob Lake.  East along SR89A is Cliff Dwellers, Lee’s Ferry and Marble Canyon.  To the north Fredonia, AZ and Kanab, UT offer many possibilities.

Fuel is available near the camp store 24 hours a day.  There is no mechanic on duty.

Pets must be on a leash at all times and only the Bridle Trail and the area around the lodge and visitor center are pet friendly.  Only service dogs allowed inside buildings.  Do not leave your pet unattended in a closed hot car.

Sun rays over Zoroaster & Brahma temples from Cape Royal North Rim Grand Canyon National Park ArizonaCape Royal overlook for the best sunsets

If you’re coming for a visit please plan ahead to visit the North Rim.  I’ll be working there all summer and would be happy to answer your questions.  Planning will make your visit more enjoyable.

Arizona, Grand Canyon National Park North Rim, National Parks and Monuments , , , 42 Comments

Shutdown at Grand Canyon Day 1

Shutdown sign in Visitor Center window North Rim Grand Canyon National Park Arizona

Yes, we are shutdown at Grand Canyon along with 400 other National Park sites.  All websites affiliated to the parks are also shutdown leaving many people wondering what will happen to their plans to visit.

Non-essential personnel, like myself, were allowed up to four hours Tuesday morning in our offices to tie up loose ends.  I submitted a timesheet that may or may not mean a pay check and left a vacation/furlough notice on my email.  From that point we can no longer work.

Nearly empty parking lot North Rim Grand Canyon National Park Arizona

So I shed the uniform and went up to the Lodge incognito.  No problem finding a parking place.

Few visitors at Lodge North Rim Grand Canyon National Park Arizona

Didn’t see a whole lot of visitors.

No one around the Lodge North Rim Grand Canyon National Park Arizona

The shutdown and gate closing at 6am Tuesday doesn’t allow any visitors in to the park.  People with overnight accommodations at the cabins or campground are allowed to stay until noon Thursday and they pretty much had the canyon to themselves.  The Lodge was only 60% full as many with reservations couldn’t get in.

Ravens North Rim Grand Canyon National Park Arizona

The Ravens were hanging about.

Visitors at closed Visitor Center North Rim Grand Canyon National Park Arizona

I’m thinking that many of the remaining visitors don’t really understand that all Federal buildings are closed, including the bathrooms.  And the poor foreign visitors just don’t get the entire shutdown idea.

North Kaibab trail North Rim Grand Canyon National Park Arizona

No one is allowed to head down the corridor trail as there are no services and few Rangers to help in the event of an emergency.  Hikers with camping permits who are already in the canyon are not being escorted out.  The hiker shuttle that runs from rim to rim is still in operation by private concession to bring hikers back to their vehicles.

Lava flows below Toroweap Colorado River trip Grand Canyon National Park Arizona

People with permits to raft the Colorado River were allowed to launch on Monday but stopped on Tuesday.  Imagine if you’d waited possibly years for the opportunity to float the Colorado in Grand Canyon and then weren’t allowed to go.

The Lodge staff continues to serve the few remaining visitors with meals and the Saloon, Gift Shop and Camp store are still open.

Self pay station North Rim Grand Canyon National Park Arizona

Visitor Use Assistants, or fee collectors, have been dismissed and will leave the park within a few days. So if we reopen visitors will have to use the automated pay station.

Sun on flag at Lodge North Rim Grand Canyon National Park Arizona

The rest of the non-essentials can stay living in the park until their previously assigned end dates somewhere near October 15th, paying rent but receiving no pay.  The hope is Congress will decide on a budget and the Grand Canyon will reopen before that.

Essential personnel include Law Enforcement and maintenance.

Sunset over canyon North Rim Grand Canyon National Park Arizona

If you need more information about the shutdown go to http://www.doi.gov/shutdown/index.cfm.

And Please contact your Congressional representatives http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml.

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Lijit

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