Grand Canyon Fire Destroys Lodge & 80 Buildings
The Grand Canyon fire destroys lodge & 80 buildings in a devastating blaze that continues to spread across northern Arizona. Two separate wildfires have already burned more than 45,000 acres, including the historic Grand Canyon Lodge, and now threaten additional structures within Grand Canyon National Park’s North Rim, according to the National Park Service (NPS).
Two Fires, One National Disaster
The fires—White Sage and Dragon Bravo—began days apart and have grown rapidly due to dry conditions and strong winds.
- White Sage Fire has reached more than 40,000 acres.
- Dragon Bravo Fire has consumed over 5,000 acres and caused most of the structural damage.
Both fires started after lightning strikes, which are common in the area during the summer monsoon season. Authorities say no injuries have been reported so far.
The National Park Service is providing updates through its Facebook page.
Grand Canyon Lodge: A Historic Loss
The Dragon Bravo Fire tore through the Grand Canyon’s North Rim on Saturday night. It destroyed the Grand Canyon Lodge, several cabins, and multiple nearby facilities.
Firefighters worked overnight to slow the fire’s movement. Despite their efforts, the lodge and dozens of buildings were lost. The NPS confirmed this in a statement, calling the fire behavior “extreme and unpredictable.”
Due to safety concerns, officials have closed the North Rim to all visitors for the rest of 2025. This area usually operates seasonally and sees about 10% of park traffic. In 2024, Grand Canyon National Park welcomed nearly five million visitors.
For current access restrictions, visit the Grand Canyon official alerts page.
The Lodge’s History: Built Twice, Lost Twice
The original lodge, constructed in 1928, was designed by architect Gilbert Stanley Underwood. It burned down in 1932.
A second lodge, also designed by Underwood, was completed in 1937 using Kaibab limestone salvaged from the first building. It had a steeper roof to handle snow and served visitors for nearly 90 years.
Before this year’s fire, the complex featured:
- A main lodge building
- 23 deluxe cabins
- 91 standard cabins
This was one of the few historic lodges located directly on the canyon rim.
Environmental Hazards: Chlorine Gas Leak
On Saturday, the Dragon Bravo Fire reached a water treatment facility near the North Rim. The flames triggered a chlorine gas release when equipment caught fire.
Chlorine gas is heavier than air and can settle in low-lying areas such as ravines or the inner canyon. When officials recognized the danger, they quickly evacuated fire crews from the area.
While the gas did not threaten major communities, residents in Marble Canyon, Lees Ferry, and parts of the Navajo Nation may notice a chlorine odor in the air.
Learn more about chlorine gas exposure from the CDC.
Firefighting Response Faces Setbacks
Crews attempted aerial bucket drops near the lodge and Transept Canyon to slow the fire’s advance. However, they could not use fire retardant because of the chlorine leak, which posed a risk to both personnel and aircraft.
Despite these limitations, firefighters continue to battle both blazes under dangerous and unpredictable conditions.
White Sage Fire: Growing Threat Near Fredonia
The White Sage Fire started on Wednesday night near Fredonia, Arizona, also after a lightning strike. By Sunday, it had burned more than 40,000 acres and showed no signs of slowing.
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is coordinating with federal and state agencies to contain the fire. Officials urge nearby residents to remain alert and follow all evacuation guidance.
Summary of Damages
The National Park Service estimates that 50 to 80 buildings have been lost so far. These include:
- Grand Canyon Lodge (North Rim)
- Cabins for park guests
- Administrative buildings
- Maintenance sheds
- Parts of the water treatment system
Damage assessments are ongoing, and full containment may take weeks.
Visitor Guidance and Safety Tips
The North Rim is now closed to tourists for the rest of 2025. Officials are asking visitors to avoid the area entirely and respect all roadblocks and closures. Travelers should check official sources for current conditions.
For real-time updates, visit:
- InciWeb Wildfire Tracking
- National Park Service Wildland Fire
- Arizona Department of Emergency Management
About the Authors
Rylee Kirk reports on breaking news and natural disasters.
Mark Walker is an investigative reporter with a focus on infrastructure and emergency response.
Original reporting by The New York Times: View full article