The Grand Canyon Lodge has been destroyed amid growing wildfires, causing evacuations and significant damage across the national park.
Historic Grand Canyon Lodge Lost to Wildfire Destruction
Historic Grand Canyon Lodge Lost to Wildfire Destruction
Raging wildfires in Arizona decimate historic lodge and force park closures.
The Grand Canyon Lodge, a historic landmark at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, has been obliterated by the Dragon Bravo Fire, one of two significant wildfires currently ravaging the area. This devastating blaze has led to the destruction of numerous structures, including the only accommodation available within the national park’s remote North Rim, which has now been closed for the entire 2025 tourist season.
The lodge, operational since the 1930s, featured dining facilities, a gift shop, and even a post office, serving as a vital location for visitors exploring one of the country’s most treasured natural sites. "As stewards of some of our country's most beloved national treasures, we are devastated by the loss of the Grand Canyon Lodge," stated Aramark, the lodging operator. They expressed relief over the safe evacuation of all staff and guests.
Despite no reported injuries from the fires—a situation worsened by high winds clocking in at 40mph—the National Park Service (NPS) has indicated that the Dragon Bravo Fire has resulted in the loss of between 50 and 80 buildings, including essential visitor services and administrative facilities. Firefighters have been withdrawn from certain areas due to safety concerns posed by chlorine gas leaks from a nearby water treatment plant, which could affect both firefighters and tourists.
The second blaze, known as the White Sage Fire, has engulfed more than 40,000 acres across the Kaibab National Forest and has prompted mass evacuations in the region. Both fires are suspected to have been ignited by lightning strikes. The Grand Canyon attracts nearly five million visitors each year, underscoring the importance of the area for tourism. Meanwhile, the South Rim of the canyon remains open amidst these challenges.
The lodge, operational since the 1930s, featured dining facilities, a gift shop, and even a post office, serving as a vital location for visitors exploring one of the country’s most treasured natural sites. "As stewards of some of our country's most beloved national treasures, we are devastated by the loss of the Grand Canyon Lodge," stated Aramark, the lodging operator. They expressed relief over the safe evacuation of all staff and guests.
Despite no reported injuries from the fires—a situation worsened by high winds clocking in at 40mph—the National Park Service (NPS) has indicated that the Dragon Bravo Fire has resulted in the loss of between 50 and 80 buildings, including essential visitor services and administrative facilities. Firefighters have been withdrawn from certain areas due to safety concerns posed by chlorine gas leaks from a nearby water treatment plant, which could affect both firefighters and tourists.
The second blaze, known as the White Sage Fire, has engulfed more than 40,000 acres across the Kaibab National Forest and has prompted mass evacuations in the region. Both fires are suspected to have been ignited by lightning strikes. The Grand Canyon attracts nearly five million visitors each year, underscoring the importance of the area for tourism. Meanwhile, the South Rim of the canyon remains open amidst these challenges.
