A historic lodge in the Grand Canyon has met its demise in a wildfire that has ravaged much of the North Rim, marking a significant loss for both visitors and the park itself. The Dragon Bravo Fire, which ignited on July 4th due to lightning, has left the park’s North Rim closed for the rest of the tourist season.
The Grand Canyon Lodge, in operation since the 1930s, served as the sole accommodation within the national park's North Rim and offered dining, a gift shop, and a post office. Aramark, the lodge's operator, expressed their heartfelt sadness over the destruction while confirming the safe evacuation of all guests and staff.
While no injuries have been reported, the wildfires have destroyed up to 80 buildings, including key visitor facilities. With strong winds reaching 40mph exacerbating the situation, officials had to evacuate firefighters in specific areas due to chlorine gas leaks from a nearby water treatment facility, creating additional risks for both responders and hikers.
In the aftermath, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has called for accountability regarding the federal government’s management of the fire, citing concerns over its handling as a controlled burn during peak summer dryness. Meanwhile, the U.S. Interior Department rebutted claims of mismanagement, assuring that wildfire threats are taken seriously.
The second blaze, the White Sage Fire, has also wreaked havoc, burning over 40,000 acres, resulting in further evacuations. As millions flock to the Grand Canyon each year, efforts continue to address and contain these destructive flames, while the park's South Rim remains open for visitors.
