Grand Canyon, AZ – A pair of rapidly spreading wildfires have destroyed the iconic Grand Canyon Lodge on the North Rim, leading to the full closure of that section of Grand Canyon National Park for the remainder of the 2025 season and calls for an investigation into the federal wildfire response.
According to the National Park Service, the Dragon Bravo Fire, sparked by a lightning strike on July 4, 2025, has burned more than 5,000 acres within the national park. Firefighters reported that powerful wind gusts and scorching temperatures fueled the flames, which engulfed dozens of structures—including the historic Grand Canyon Lodge. No injuries have been reported as all staff and visitors were evacuated before the fire intensified.
A second wildfire, the White Sage Fire, was first detected on July 9, 2025, and has since consumed more than 40,000 acres north of the Grand Canyon, according to InciWeb, a federal wildfire information source. Evacuation orders are in effect for areas from the Kaibab Plateau to the Utah-Arizona border. The White Sage Fire remains 0% contained as of Monday.
Extreme weather has hampered firefighting efforts. The National Weather Service issued an “extreme heat warning” for the region, with daytime highs forecast between 106 and 115 degrees, making ground operations difficult and increasing the risk for rapid fire growth.
The Grand Canyon Lodge, constructed in 1937 after the original structure was lost to fire, had served generations of visitors with its panoramic canyon views. The National Park Service described the loss as “devastating,” while Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs is calling for a comprehensive federal review of the wildfire management strategy following the initial controlled burn decision.
The North Rim is now closed through October 15, 2025, while the South Rim remains open to visitors, though officials advise monitoring for potential air quality alerts as firefighting continues.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
