The Grand Canyon is a place of timeless beauty, but today I bring you heartbreaking news. The Dragon Bravo Fire has swept across the North Rim, and in its path, it has destroyed one of the park’s most iconic landmarks—the Grand Canyon North Rim Lodge.
For me, this loss is deeply personal. Like many of you, I have cherished memories of this historic lodge, from family moments in the Sun Room to evenings spent in the Pioneer Cabins. Today, we look back, reflect, and also look forward to what remains open for visitors to experience.
A Historic Treasure, Gone
The Grand Canyon Lodge on the North Rim was more than a place to stay—it was a piece of history. Rebuilt in 1936–1937, it welcomed generations of visitors with its rustic charm and sweeping canyon views.
- In the 1930s, lodge employees would host singalongs, creating a spirit of community.
- For decades, the Sun Room offered some of the most breathtaking vistas of the canyon.
- Families returned year after year, staying in the Western and Pioneer Cabins.
Sadly, much of this history has now been reduced to ashes. While the stone walls of the lodge still stand, the fire destroyed the restaurant, meeting rooms, cabins, and the beloved Sun Room.
The Brighty Connection
One of the most charming features of the lodge was a bronze statue of Brighty of the Grand Canyon, the famous burro from Marguerite Henry’s book. Brighty was a symbol of adventure, innocence, and the enduring spirit of the canyon. For generations of children (myself included), seeing Brighty at the lodge brought the story to life. Whether Brighty survived the fire remains uncertain.
What’s Closed
The Dragon Bravo Fire continues to burn, and with it, closures across the North Rim and inner canyon have been put in place:
- North Kaibab Trail – closed
- South Kaibab Trail – closed
- Phantom Ranch – closed
- Bright Angel Trail to Phantom Ranch – closed
- Inner canyon access – closed until further notice
If you have plans for a hike or a stay in the inner canyon, please contact the National Park Service immediately for updates and options.
What Remains Open
Despite the devastation, there is still so much to see and do at the Grand Canyon. The South Rim and other areas remain open and fully operational:
- South Rim – open year-round with hotels, dining, and incredible views [Hyperlink: https://grandcanyon.com/planning/south-rim-planning/ ]
- Air Tours – including the Grand Discovery Air Tour and Horseshoe Bend/Antelope Canyon Adventure Tour by Grand Canyon Airlines [Hyperlink: https://grandcanyon.com/tours/south-rim-tours/ ]
- Helicopter Tours – Papillon Helicopters continues to operate the North Canyon and Grand Kingdom Tours [Hyperlink: https://grandcanyon.com/tours/south-rim-tours/ ]
- Hummer Tours – including the Signature Hummer and Sunset Hummer tours [Hyperlink: https://grandcanyon.com/tours/south-rim-tours/grand-canyon-hummer-tour/ ]
- IMAX Experience – still open and sharing the story of the Grand Canyon
- East Rim – Little Colorado River, Marble Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend remain accessible
- West Rim – home of the Grand Canyon Skywalk, tours, and cultural experiences
- Colorado River Rafting Trips – still running and offering unforgettable adventure
Looking Ahead
The North Rim will remain closed for the rest of 2025. Officials will assess the damage and determine future accessibility. While the loss of the lodge is profound, the Grand Canyon itself endures, and its other rims continue to inspire millions each year.
Plan Your Visit
Though we grieve the loss of the North Rim Lodge, we encourage you to continue experiencing the Grand Canyon’s unmatched beauty and adventure.
👉 Visit the South Rim, West Rim, or East Rim for tours, hotels, and activities.
👉 Book a helicopter, airplane, or Hummer tour for a perspective you’ll never forget.
👉 Stay informed—we’ll continue sharing updates as the Dragon Bravo Fire develops.
The Grand Canyon is resilient, and so are those of us who love it. Even in the face of loss, the canyon remains a place of wonder, connection, and renewal. We invite you to come, explore, and honor its beauty with us.
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