A fast-moving wildfire tore through the Grand Canyon’s North Rim, destroying the iconic Grand Canyon Lodge and dozens of surrounding structures, prompting park officials to shut down access to the area for the remainder of the season.
Park Superintendent Ed Keable confirmed Sunday that the lodge — the only overnight lodging option within the park on the North Rim — was among 50 to 80 structures lost to the flames. Also destroyed were the visitor center, gas station, wastewater treatment plant, administrative offices, employee housing, and numerous historic cabins.
The destruction was caused by the Dragon Bravo Fire, one of two wildfires burning near the North Rim. Sparked by lightning on July 4, the fire rapidly spread across 7.8 square miles (20 square kilometers) due to dry conditions, high heat, and strong winds. Initially managed with a “confine and contain” approach, officials shifted to full suppression after the fire intensified last week.
No injuries have been reported, but the fire’s impact has been severe. Along with the historic loss, officials warned of potential chlorine gas exposure after the wastewater facility burned, creating a hazardous situation for firefighters and inner-canyon hikers. Rafters on the Colorado River were advised to bypass Phantom Ranch, a popular rest stop near the river.
Beloved Landmark Lost
The Grand Canyon Lodge, known for its sweeping views, rustic stonework, and towering ponderosa beams, was often the first stop for visitors arriving on the North Rim. Its lobby and iconic “Sun Room” offered dramatic views of the canyon before guests even stepped outside.
“It felt like stepping back in time,” said Tim Allen, a longtime visitor from Flagstaff, Arizona. “The North Rim had a quiet, personal feel. Losing that lodge — it’s heartbreaking.”
Originally built in 1928, the lodge burned once before in a kitchen fire in 1932. It was rebuilt using the original stone and reopened in 1937. The structure was managed by Aramark, which confirmed all employees and guests were safely evacuated.
“We are devastated by the loss,” said Aramark spokesperson Debbie Albert. “We take pride in preserving our national treasures, and this is a tremendous blow.”
Officials are unsure if the lodge’s historic archives survived the blaze. Among the items inside was a 600-pound bronze statue of “Brighty the Burro,” a beloved canyon mascot.
White Sage Fire and Broader Threat
Meanwhile, progress was reported in containing the nearby White Sage Fire, which had already scorched 63 square miles (162 square kilometers). Fire lines near the North Rim and the Jacob Lake community were holding, though the blaze continued to push toward the Vermilion Cliffs area. Firefighters worked to carve out buffer zones using hand crews and bulldozers.
Both fires have prompted concerns from environmental groups and nearby tribal communities, who warn of long-term ecological impacts.
Colorado Also Hit by Wildfires
In Colorado, a separate wildfire forced the closure of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. That blaze, sparked by lightning Thursday, has burned 5.6 square miles (14.5 square kilometers) on the park’s south rim. Homes near the park have been evacuated.
Governor Jared Polis issued a statewide disaster declaration Sunday in response to multiple wildfires across western Colorado, many of which were ignited by the same storm system.
Another fire near the Colorado–Utah border has consumed 14 square miles (36.3 square kilometers) near La Sal, Utah.
As fires rage across the American West, officials continue battling extreme heat, drought conditions, and unpredictable wind patterns that have fueled some of the most destructive wildfire seasons in recent history.
