Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs is calling for a full investigation into the federal government’s response to the Dragon Bravo Fire, which has scorched the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, destroying between 50 and 80 structures, including the iconic Grand Canyon Lodge.
The wildfire began July 4 after a lightning strike and grew rapidly amid hot, dry summer conditions. Despite early warnings, federal officials opted to manage it as a controlled burn, rather than extinguish it immediately — a decision now under intense scrutiny.
“I am incredibly saddened by the destruction of the historic Grand Canyon Lodge,” Hobbs said in a statement. “Arizonans deserve answers for how this fire was allowed to decimate the Grand Canyon National Park.”
How the Fire Spread
Originally intended as a “confine and contain” strategy to clear dry fuel and promote ecological renewal, the plan backfired when strong northwest winds on July 11 drove the fire beyond control lines. By July 13, the fire had burned through 5,000 acres, remained at 0% containment, and forced evacuations due to chlorine gas released from a damaged water treatment facility.
Grand Canyon Lodge Among Devastated Structures
The fire’s toll includes not only park administrative buildings and historic cabins, but also the Grand Canyon Lodge — the only hotel located within the North Rim boundaries. The lodge, operated by Aramark, was a major tourism hub for visitors from around the world.
“We are devastated by the loss,” said Aramark spokesperson Debbie Albert. “We’re grateful all guests and employees were safely evacuated.”
Entire North Rim Remains Closed
As of July 13, the entire North Rim is shut down, including:
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All inner canyon corridor trails (e.g., North and South Kaibab, Bright Angel)
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Phantom Ranch
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Campgrounds and visitor facilities
Park officials advise checking air quality here before visiting the South Rim.
What Happens Next?
Gov. Hobbs is demanding an independent review of how federal fire officials assessed risk and made operational decisions, especially given that they chose to manage a wildfire during Arizona’s peak fire season.
“They must take aggressive action to end the wildfire and prevent further damage,” she said. “This incident demands intense oversight and scrutiny.”
No injuries or fatalities have been reported, and all residents and staff were safely evacuated. However, the long-term damage — to infrastructure, tourism, and public trust — may take much longer to contain than the fire itself.
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