Important Updates for Travelers to the Grand Canyons North Rim
The recent Dragon Bravo wildfire has significantly impacted the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, leading to evacuations and closures. As of now, the North Rim will remain closed for the rest of the 2025 season. This closure affects not only the park but also several hiking trails, including the North Kaibab Trail, South Kaibab Trail, and Phantom Ranch, due to chlorine gas contamination following the destruction of the North Rim Water Treatment Facility.
Fortunately, there have been no injuries or fatalities reported as a result of the fire. However, the blaze has caused substantial damage, destroying key structures such as the visitor center, the historic Grand Canyon Lodge, and several cabins. This situation will also impact hikers holding permits for the popular rim-to-rim hike during the closure.
If you’re planning a trip to the Grand Canyon in the near future, here’s what you need to know:
Park Overview
Grand Canyon National Park is located in the northwest corner of Arizona and features three main entrances. The South Rim, accessed via the town of Tusayan, is the most popular and frequently visited. This area offers the majority of lodging and services, including the Grand Canyon Village, which hosts a visitor center, campgrounds, and historic lodges such as El Tovar Hotel and Bright Angel Lodge.
The east entrance, accessible via State Route 64 from the town of Cameron on the Navajo Nation, leads to scenic overlooks like the Desert View Watchtower. If you’re at the South Rim, be aware that the North Rim is approximately a five-hour drive away, covering over 220 miles. The nearest food and fuel services to the North Rim are located at Jacob Lake Inn in Fredonia, Arizona.
Traditionally, the North Rim is open from May 15 to October 15 each year, but it closes during winter months due to adverse road conditions. Currently, while the South Rim remains safe for visitors, the North Rim and State Route 67 leading into it are closed. The park’s advisory indicates that smoke may still be visible from the South Rim, and air quality conditions may fluctuate depending on fire activity and wind patterns.
Trail and Facility Closures
The closures include the North Kaibab Trail, South Kaibab Trail, and Phantom Ranch. If you have a hike planned, especially a rim-to-rim trek, it’s advisable to contact the Backcountry Permit Office for alternative routes and to stay updated on any rules and restrictions. Given the harsh summer conditions in the canyon, water availability may be affected due to the loss of the North Rim facilities.
The National Park Service (NPS) is actively updating its emergency messages on its website. Visitors should bookmark the operations page for the latest updates, including any hiking restrictions.
For those interested in checking conditions at the South Rim, the NPS and Grand Canyon Conservancy operate several webcams at key locations. These cameras provide real-time views of traffic conditions at the entrance station, scenic vistas, and air quality data.
Travel Considerations
If you plan to travel north of the Grand Canyon toward Kanab, Utah, and Zion National Park, be sure to check road conditions on Arizona 511. Currently, parts of State Route 89A in northern Arizona are closed due to another fire, the White Sage Fire.
Due to the destruction of facilities at the North Rim, the NPS has confirmed that it will remain closed through the end of the year. Typically, the North Rim would close around mid-October, but this year’s situation is unprecedented. It’s uncertain whether any campgrounds at the North Rim will be spared or if they will reopen for the 2026 season.
For the latest wildfire status and advisories, please refer to the NPS website.
Impact on Reservations
While the South Rim remains unaffected by wildfires, the North Rim has suffered significant losses, including the Grand Canyon Lodge and historic cabins. Personnel are safe, and guests with future reservations will be contacted soon. All campsite reservations at the North Rim have been canceled, and guests are encouraged to explore options at Mather and Desert View campgrounds on the South Rim as alternatives.
Travelers with plans to visit the Grand Canyon should verify the status of their reservations to determine if their plans are impacted. The latest updates and advisories will be posted on the official park website, and TPG will continue to monitor the situation for further developments.
Conclusion
In summary, while the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is still open and accessible, the North Rim is closed due to the Dragon Bravo wildfire. Visitors should remain informed about trail and facility closures, and consider alternative plans for their trips. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the NPS website before heading out on your adventure.
