Grand Canyon Skywalk: $75 Per Person, Rip-Off? {Gadling}

Aug 31st 2009 10:05PM Yes, it does cost $29.95 to enter Grand Canyon West. This fee is because private vehicles are not allowed to wander around the Rim in order to minimize human impact and preserve the natural environment which is the Hualapai heritage. This fee pays for an narrated tour in air conditioned shuttle. Visitors are welcome to stay as long as they like at each drop off location, and simply hop the next shuttle as it comes around.

There is an $11.00 impact fee for visitors because the Hualapai have no electricity or running water/sewage system. All electricity must be generated through diesel engines, all water hauled in trucks, and all waste hauled out in trucks.

There is a 7% sales tax.

Private photography is not permitted on the Skywalk. It is permitted at all other locations on Grand Canyon West. Photo costs are:

1 photo in frame - $28.04 (before tax) $30.00 after tax

2 photos in frames - $50.47 (before tax) $54.00 after tax

3 photos in frames - $75.70 (before tax) $81.00 after tax

Ultimate (4 photos In frames + 6 on USB) - $100.00 (before tax) $107.00 after tax

Digital Pkg (6 on USB) - $73.83 (before tax) $79.00 after tax

Souvenir Photo - $10.00 (before tax) $10.70 after tax

Prices in General - Many Indian tribes generate tremendous revenue from gaming, but the Hualapai have chosen to support their people by opening up their reservation to the public in order to share the splendor of the Grand Canyon with the world. The revenues generated from Grand Canyon West pay for education, healthcare, police & fire services, etc., as well as provide employment for the Hualapai tribal members.

For info, reservations, or directions go to www.grandcanyonwest.com