Grand Canyon’s North Rim Closed for Season as Wildfires Destroy Historic Lodge

Devastating wildfires continue to rage near the Grand Canyon, leading to the destruction of the historic Grand Canyon Lodge and the immediate closure of the North Rim for the remainder of the 2025 season. The iconic lodge, a National Historic Landmark first opened in 1937 and the only in-park lodging on the North Rim, was among at least 70 structures lost to the blazes.

Two uncontained wildfires, the White Sage Fire and the Dragon Bravo Fire, are currently burning approximately 35 miles apart. Both were ignited by lightning and are being exacerbated by challenging terrain and strong winds. The Dragon Bravo Fire was responsible for the destruction of the Grand Canyon Lodge and other critical park facilities, including the National Park Service’s administrative building and visitor centers. No injuries have been reported.

Firefighting efforts have been hampered, including a recent evacuation of personnel from critical zones due to a chlorine gas leak at a nearby water treatment facility, posing significant health risks. The White Sage Fire has scorched nearly 50,000 acres, while the Dragon Bravo Fire has consumed 5,700 acres.

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs expressed profound sadness over the loss of the Grand Canyon Lodge, calling the destruction “devastating.” She also urged “scrutiny” into the federal government’s emergency response, emphasizing the need for aggressive action to contain the wildfires and prevent further damage to one of Arizona’s most cherished landmarks.

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