Historic Grand Canyon Lodge Lost in Devastating Wildfire
A catastrophic blaze near the Grand Canyon has obliterated numerous structures, including its historic lodge, marking significant devastation to the area's natural and cultural heritage.
The Dragon Bravo Fire has wreaked havoc on the Grand Canyon's North Rim, destroying the only lodge within the national park and affecting dozens of other buildings. The fire, along with another known as the White Sage Fire, has burned tens of thousands of acres, prompting the closure of the North Rim for the remainder of the 2025 tourist season. The Grand Canyon Lodge, operated since the 1930s, provided essential services, including dining facilities and a gift shop. Aramark, the lodge’s operator, expressed deep regret over the loss while confirming no injuries have been reported. The wildfire's spread was exacerbated by high winds, reaching up to 40 mph, and the National Park Service reports that between 50 and 80 buildings have been destroyed. Fire response efforts have been hindered by chlorine leaks at a nearby treatment facility, forcing evacuations for safety. Both fires are believed to have originated from lightning strikes, further complicating firefighting efforts in the area. With nearly five million visitors in 2024, the Grand Canyon remains a top tourist attraction despite the ongoing crisis.
A catastrophic blaze near the Grand Canyon has obliterated numerous structures, including its historic lodge, marking significant devastation to the area's natural and cultural heritage.
The Dragon Bravo Fire has wreaked havoc on the Grand Canyon's North Rim, destroying the only lodge within the national park and affecting dozens of other buildings. The fire, along with another known as the White Sage Fire, has burned tens of thousands of acres, prompting the closure of the North Rim for the remainder of the 2025 tourist season. The Grand Canyon Lodge, operated since the 1930s, provided essential services, including dining facilities and a gift shop. Aramark, the lodge’s operator, expressed deep regret over the loss while confirming no injuries have been reported. The wildfire's spread was exacerbated by high winds, reaching up to 40 mph, and the National Park Service reports that between 50 and 80 buildings have been destroyed. Fire response efforts have been hindered by chlorine leaks at a nearby treatment facility, forcing evacuations for safety. Both fires are believed to have originated from lightning strikes, further complicating firefighting efforts in the area. With nearly five million visitors in 2024, the Grand Canyon remains a top tourist attraction despite the ongoing crisis.
