The iconic Grand Canyon Lodge, located on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, was one of dozens of structures destroyed by a raging wildfire that swept through the region over the weekend, the National Park Service (NPS) confirmed.

The fire, dubbed Dragon Bravo, has consumed more than 5,000 acres, fueled by extreme heat, low humidity, and strong winds. Additionally, a second active fire, the White Sage Fire, is also threatening the North Rim. Built in 1937 and declared a National Historic Landmark, the Grand Canyon Lodge was the only lodging option within the park in that area. The fire destroyed not only the lodge but also the park administration building and visitor facilities, adding to an estimated 50 to 80 structures that were razed. Authorities resorted to helicopter water drops to contain the fire's spread. However, a chlorine gas leak at the nearby water treatment plant forced the evacuation of firefighting personnel. According to the NPS, chlorine gas poses a serious health risk, especially in low-lying areas like the canyon interior. Despite the magnitude of the disaster, no casualties or injuries were reported. Park staff and residents were preemptively evacuated before the fire reached its peak. Due to the damage and lingering danger, the North Rim will remain closed to the public through the 2025 season.

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs expressed her sorrow in a statement Sunday: “As someone who was born and raised in Arizona, I know what Grand Canyon National Park means to so many people, not only here, but around the world. It is devastating to see the damage to one of our state’s most treasured landmarks.”

Hobbs also urged federal authorities to thoroughly review the emergency response to the fire and called for redoubled efforts to contain the blaze and prevent further destruction.