The historic Grand Canyon Lodge on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park has been destroyed as two rapidly expanding wildfires continue to threaten northern Arizona. Officials confirmed the loss of the lodge, along with dozens of other structures, as the Dragon Bravo Fire burned out of control across more than 5,000 acres amid extreme heat and high winds. Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has called for an independent investigation into the federal government’s handling of the blaze.
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She criticized the decision to manage the lightning-sparked Dragon Bravo Fire as a controlled burn during peak summer conditions, citing the risk factors of prolonged drought and high temperatures. Hobbs stated that the severity of the situation warrants scrutiny and accountability over the choices that led to the destruction of historic facilities. The North Rim, now closed for the remainder of the 2025 season, had housed the Grand Canyon Lodge since its reconstruction in 1937 following a previous fire.
Operated by Aramark, the lodge was a key feature for visitors, offering dining, lodging, and views from its perch 8,000 feet above sea level. Aramark confirmed the safe evacuation of all employees and guests, expressing sorrow over the loss of a site deeply tied to the park’s history. The fire also damaged critical infrastructure, including a water treatment facility that released chlorine gas upon catching fire. National Park Service officials reported immediate evacuations of firefighters and hikers from the North Rim and inner canyon areas to avoid health risks.
Arizona’s North Rim closures extended after fire devastation
Areas such as the North Kaibab Trail, Phantom Ranch, and South Kaibab Trail remain closed pending further assessments. Fire officials noted the blaze intensified due to sustained winds of 20 mph with gusts up to 40 mph, which caused the fire to breach containment lines. Nearby, the White Sage Fire continues to burn aggressively across 40,000 acres with no containment reported. That fire, which began after a thunderstorm on July 9, has prompted additional road closures, including portions of Highway 89A. Firefighters are contending with extreme fire behavior, compounded by dry vegetation and erratic winds.
Federal agencies have not yet responded to inquiries regarding the governor’s demand for an investigation. The National Weather Service has issued continued heat advisories for lower elevations within the Grand Canyon, with temperatures expected to reach up to 115°F. Authorities stress that the South Rim remains open and operational, although access is limited due to the ongoing firefighting efforts. The Grand Canyon National Park, which attracted nearly five million visitors last year, faces an uncertain recovery timeline for its North Rim facilities following this latest disaster. – By Content Syndication Services.