A fast-moving Grand Canyon Lodge wildfire has devastated the North Rim of Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park, destroying the only in-park accommodation and dozens of nearby buildings. The fire, named Dragon Bravo, was sparked by lightning on July 4 and quickly spread due to extreme heat, low humidity, and wind gusts reaching 40 mph.
According to the National Park Service the Grand Canyon Lodge—built in 1937 and listed as a National Historic Landmark—was among 50 to 80 structures lost, including visitor centers, staff housing, and a water treatment facility. The North Rim will remain closed for the rest of the 2025 season.
Grand Canyon Lodge Wildfire Forces Evacuations
The Grand Canyon Lodge wildfire prompted immediate evacuations of staff and visitors. “It just feels like you’re a pioneer when you walk through there,” said Tim Allen, a longtime visitor from Flagstaff. “It really felt like you were in a time gone by”.
This is so sad 💔
The Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim is gone. Destroyed by the Dragon Bravo wildfire. 🔥
The lodge was built in 1927/28
Almost 100 years ago.
😢#GrandCanyonLodge pic.twitter.com/XJubD3S9jx— RideOrDie ☮️ (@semisweet4) July 13, 2025
The fire also caused a chlorine gas leak from the damaged water treatment plant, forcing firefighters to retreat from critical zones. Chlorine gas, heavier than air, can settle into lower elevations and pose serious health risks to hikers and emergency crews.
Two Fires Threaten Grand Canyon’s North Rim
Alongside Dragon Bravo, the White Sage Fire continues to burn in the Kaibab National Forest. It has scorched over 40,000 acres and forced hundreds to evacuate. Both fires are believed to have been started by lightning strikes.
Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs called for stronger federal response, stating, “An incident of this magnitude demands intense oversight and scrutiny”.
A Century of Legacy Lost
The Grand Canyon Lodge was more than a building—it was a cultural icon. Known for its massive limestone facade and ponderosa beams, it welcomed generations of travelers. Among the lost artifacts was the 600-pound bronze statue of Brighty the Burro, a beloved figure in Grand Canyon folklore.
Caren Carney, who had just visited with her family, shared, “We told our son this was a tradition. I’m glad we got one final look before it was gone”.
